Rivers Wins First National Schools Debate Championship

Author: Gist Correspondent

Team Rivers has made history by winning the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Inter-Senior Secondary Schools Debate Championship, securing the state's first national title in the competition.

The grand finale, held in Port Harcourt, featured students from all 36 states of the federation, with Team Kwara finishing second and Team Sokoto placing third.

Speaking at the event, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, described debate as a vital tool for developing critical thinking, effective communication and leadership skills among young people.

Represented by his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, the governor congratulated Team Rivers on its historic victory and urged all participants to remain humble, respect opposing views and always support their arguments with facts and sound reasoning.

Fubara commended the organisers for promoting intellectual excellence and investing in the development of Nigerian youths, reaffirming his administration's commitment to quality education and programmes that prepare students for future leadership.

The event also featured awards for outstanding public service, with Governor Fubara named Best Governor in the South-South, while Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, received the Best Governor in the North-East award.