Oborevwori Rewards World Debate Champions With N20m Each

In a moment of pride and celebration, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday, rewarded each member of the state’s victorious debate team with N20 million for winning the 2025 World Basic Schools Debate Championship held in Doha, Qatar. The five-member team, along with their coaches and handlers—who also received N20 million each—were honoured at a reception at Government House, Asaba. Governor Oborevwori described their victory as a significant milestone for the state and a clear affirmation of his administration’s commitment to educational excellence. “Delta State is known not only for oil production and talents in comedy, music, and sports but also for its brilliance in education,” the governor said. “I believe this gesture will encourage our youths to be diligent and excel in their studies.” He decorated the champions with their medals and received the championship trophy from Elder Dare Oritu, National Coordinator of the President’s Schools Debate Nigeria. The team’s win marks a historic achievement, elevating Delta and Nigeria to the global stage in the realm of educational competition. The governor praised the students for their hard work and dedication, commending their parents, coaches, and handlers for the pivotal role they played in the success. He emphasised that education remains the most valuable legacy any parent can offer, urging other students to emulate the team’s discipline, focus, and excellence. “Such virtues,” he said, “not only lead to academic success but also help reduce crime in society by fostering responsibility and ambition among young people.” Hon. Samuel Mariere, Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), introduced the team and lauded Governor Oborevwori’s unwavering support for education. He highlighted the governor’s prayers and encouragement before the team’s departure, as well as his prompt payment of the 2025 counterpart funding for UBEC-SUBEB projects—a first in the nation. Speaking on behalf of the champions, Splendour Ikhamateh of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba, reflected on the challenges they overcame to emerge world champions. She noted that they debated critical global issues, including climate change, youth empowerment, and responsible technology use. “We drew strength from the spirit of Delta,” she said. “It was the courage to excel and represent every basic school student in our state.” The event ended with resounding applause as Delta celebrated not just a trophy, but a renewed hope in the power of education to shape the future.