Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday honoured the state’s five-member contingent that clinched the 2025 World Basic Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar, with a cash reward of ₦20 million each.
The Governor also announced a ₦20 million reward for the team’s handlers, describing their triumph as a source of pride for Delta State and a reflection of his administration’s commitment to academic excellence.
Receiving the champions, their parents, and officials at Government House, Asaba, Governor Oborevwori lauded the students for bringing global recognition to both Delta State and Nigeria.
He personally decorated them with their medals and accepted the championship trophy from Elder Dare Oritu, National Coordinator of the President’s Schools Debate Nigeria.
“Delta State is renowned not only for its oil production and talent in comedy, music, and sports but also for brilliance in education. I believe this gesture will inspire our youths to work hard and excel academically,” the Governor said.
He praised the parents, coach, and team handlers for their dedication, stressing that education remains the greatest legacy any parent can bestow upon their children.
He urged other students to emulate the champions’ discipline, hard work, and focus, noting that such values can help curb crime in society.
Introducing the winners, Executive Chairman of the Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, expressed appreciation for the Governor’s unwavering support for the education sector.
He recalled the Governor’s prayers for the team before their departure and highlighted his status as the first to pay the 2025 counterpart funding for UBEC-SUBEB projects.
Speaking on behalf of the champions, Splendour Ikhamateh of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba, shared that they debated global issues including climate change, youth empowerment, and responsible technology use.
She said they overcame initial doubts by drawing strength from “the spirit of Delta”, the courage to excel and represent every basic school student in the state.
