Karu School Clinches Nigeria Info’s Debate Contest, Bags N3m Prize
Government Day Secondary School, Karu, has emerged winner of the Season 3 edition of the “I Beg To Differ” debate competition organised by Nigeria Info FM Abuja, clinching the top prize of N3 million.
The grand finale, held in Abuja, brought together some of the brightest secondary school students who debated the motion: “International institutions influence Nigeria’s policies more than its citizens do.”
Fountain School, Jikoyi, secured the second position with a prize of N2 million, while Government Science Secondary School, Maitama, came third, earning N1 million.
The debate initiative, a flagship youth-focused programme by Nigeria Info FM, is designed to promote critical thinking, public speaking, and civic engagement among teenagers. This year’s edition adopted a school-centric approach, allowing institutions not just individual students to actively participate and take ownership of the competition.
Speaking at the event, the Programme Manager, Swat Adalumo, said the shift was aimed at deepening institutional involvement and strengthening the impact of the initiative.
“This season, we introduced a school-based format to ensure that institutions have a stake in the process. It goes beyond individual performance; it’s about building a culture of debate within schools,” he said.
Adalumo noted that the competition has continued to grow in scope and relevance, fostering meaningful conversations around national issues among young Nigerians.
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Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of Kira AI, Obiechina Emmanuel, sponsor of the event, said the initiative aligns with efforts to encourage young people to engage in intellectual discourse and develop skills relevant to leadership and innovation.
He explained that supporting the debate was not only about brand visibility but also about inspiring students to embrace critical thinking and explore opportunities in areas such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Participants at the event described the experience as both challenging and rewarding. One of the finalists, Majesty ojocchegbe, said the competition boosted his confidence and sharpened his ability to articulate ideas.
“What motivated us was the passion for debating and the opportunity to express our views. It’s not just about winning; it’s about learning and preparing for bigger platforms in the future,” he said.
Ojochegbe who was the finalists for the season 2 last year added that his team is already looking ahead to the national finals scheduled to hold in Lagos later in the year, expressing confidence in bringing home further honours.
The organisers said the competition has successfully engaged students across Abuja, creating a platform for young voices to engage constructively on issues of national importance.
They added that the initiative will continue to expand, with a focus on nurturing future leaders equipped with the skills to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s democratic and developmental processes.
By PRNigeria
