Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday presented cash rewards of ₦20 million each to members of the state’s five-man contingent that won the 2025 World Basic Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar. The same amount was also awarded to the team’s handlers.
Receiving the champions, their parents, and officials at Government House, Asaba, Governor Oborevwori described their victory as a proud moment for Delta State and Nigeria, and a reflection 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 brilliance in education. I believe this gesture will encourage our youths to be diligent and excel in their studies,” the governor said.
He commended the parents, coach, and team handlers for their role in the victory, stressing that education remains the most valuable legacy parents can give to their children.
He urged other students to emulate the champions’ hard work, discipline, and focus, noting that such virtues help in reducing crime in society.
Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, thanked the governor for his unwavering support to the education sector, recalling the governor’s prayers for the team before their departure and lauding him for being the first to pay the 2025 counterpart funding for UBEC-SUBEB projects.
Speaking on behalf of the winners, Splendour Ikhamateh of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba, said they debated global issues such as climate change, youth empowerment, and responsible technology use.
She attributed their success to “the spirit of Delta” the courage to excel and represent every basic school student in the state.
Elder Dare Oritu, National Coordinator of President’s Schools Debate Nigeria, formally presented the championship trophy to Governor Oborevwori, who also decorated the champions with their medals.
