Delta Governor Rewards World Debate Champions with N20 Million Each

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has honoured the five students who clinched victory at the 2025 World Basic Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar, with a cash reward of N20 million each.

At a ceremony held at the Government House in Asaba, the Governor also awarded N20 million to the team’s handlers in recognition of their vital contribution to the international triumph.

Receiving the champions, their parents, and officials, Oborevwori described the achievement as a proud moment for both Delta State and Nigeria, noting that it underscores 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 brilliance in education. I believe this gesture will encourage our youths to be diligent and excel in their studies,” he said.

The Governor decorated the champions with their medals and accepted the championship trophy from Elder Dare Oritu, National Coordinator of President’s Schools Debate Nigeria. He commended the students, their coach, and parents, stressing that education remains the greatest legacy any parent can give. He urged other students in the state to emulate the discipline and focus that earned the champions global recognition.

Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, introduced the team and praised the Governor for his unwavering support to the education sector, including being the first in the country to pay the 2025 UBEC-SUBEB counterpart funding.

Speaking on behalf of the team, Splendour Ikhamateh of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba, reflected on their experience debating issues such as climate change, youth empowerment, and responsible technology use. She attributed their success to “the spirit of Delta” — a determination to overcome challenges and represent every basic school student with pride.

The team’s victory has been widely hailed as a milestone for academic excellence and a call for greater investment in youth development across Nigeria.