Ikorodu, Nigeria — The O’Clean Event Centre in Ikorodu Local Government buzzed with excitement on September 25, 2024, as the second edition of the interschool debate competition kicked off.
This annual event, spearheaded by Ikorodu Local Government in partnership with Kaodwad & Associates, is designed to enhance students’ public speaking abilities and provide them with a platform to express their views on critical societal issues.
The competition, which is set to span three weeks, features 16 schools across Ikorodu Local Government area. It aims to cultivate a culture of intellectual engagement among students while sharpening their argumentative and critical thinking skills.
Schools such as Luwasa Senior High School, Ipakodo Senior Grammar School, and Odogunyan Senior Grammar School took part in the first stage of the competition, each competing for a chance to advance to the next round.
The debate topic, “The presidential system of government as practised in Nigeria is more rewarding than the regional system of government,” has sparked lively discussions and intense preparations among the students.
During the opening ceremony, the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Hon. Wasiu Adesina addressed a diverse audience, including educators, students, stakeholders, councillors, and media representatives.
He highlighted the importance of the debate in building students’ confidence and encouraging them to compete academically with their peers from other regions.
“Consider this program as part of our yardstick to enhance education across Ikorodu Local Government,” Adesina stated emphatically.
He reiterated that education remains a top priority for the council and that ongoing efforts are focused on providing students with opportunities to advance their educational journeys.
In addition to the debate competition, Adesina outlined several significant accomplishments by the council aimed at improving educational standards in the region.
These include the construction and rehabilitation of school facilities, the distribution of essential school materials to public schools, and the recent provision of free GCE forms to 100 students.
Furthermore, he announced plans to establish computer units in all 16 public schools to enhance digital literacy and learning experiences.
“We urge well-meaning individuals and NGOs to contribute to educational initiatives, as the government can not do it all alone,” he added, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in supporting education.
Mr. Adedeji Owolabi, the Head of the Education Department in Ikorodu Local Government, praised the Chairman for his unwavering commitment to education, which he said has led to tangible benefits for many young scholars.
He congratulated the participating students and encouraged them to give their best, stating, “Let the best school emerge victorious.”
Among the special guests in attendance was Alhaji Shamsideen Adewale Longe, who commended the council chairman for his innovative educational initiatives.
He expressed his belief that the debate program would have a lasting impact on the students, equipping them with essential skills in public speaking, critical thinking, and project defence.
Vice Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Aarebirin Hon. Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba also addressed the audience, urging the schools to meet expectations.
She emphasized the high stakes of debate competitions, noting that students don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.
“This is an opportunity to showcase your talents, and I encourage you to seize it,” she stated.
She further praised Adesina’s dedication to education, adding that history will remember his contributions fondly.
Students from Luwasa Senior High School, Ipakodo Senior Grammar School, and Odogunyan Senior Grammar School expressed optimism about the competition.
In interviews with Ikorodu News Network (INN), students Oladunni Jonathan, Emmnualla Kevin, and Adigun Zainab shared their hopes of clinching the top prize and reflected on the importance of the debate in honing their skills.
Before the competition commenced, Chairman Adesina announced during a press conference that Lagos State’s First Lady, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, is expected to grace the finale of the event.
He promised that her presence would elevate the program’s profile and inspire the participating students.
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