Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced a total of ₦100 million cash reward to the five-member Delta State contingent that emerged champions at the 2025 World Basic Schools Debate Championship held in Doha, Qatar.
Each of the five winning students received ₦20 million, while the team’s handlers also got ₦20 million each, in recognition of their historic victory and outstanding representation of both Delta State and Nigeria on the global stage.
The Governor, while receiving the debate champions, their parents, and officials at Government House, Asaba; described their triumph as “a proud moment for Delta and a testament to our commitment to educational excellence.” He decorated the students with their medals and officially received the championship trophy from Elder Dare Oritu, National Coordinator of the President’s Schools Debate Nigeria.
“Delta State is not just known for oil production, comedy, music, and sports — we are also a hub of brilliance in education. I hope this reward inspires our youths to excel in their studies and strive for greatness,” Governor Oborevwori stated.
The Governor also commended the parents, coaches, and team handlers for their dedication, stressing that education remains the most valuable legacy any parent can give to a child. He urged other students to emulate the champions’ hard work, discipline, and focus, noting that such virtues are key to reducing youth involvement in crime.
Introducing the champions, Hon. Samuel Mariere, Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), thanked the Governor for his unwavering support for the education sector. He recalled that Governor Oborevwori was the first to pay the 2025 counterpart funding for UBEC-SUBEB projects and had prayed for the team before their departure to Qatar.
Speaking on behalf of the champions, Splendour Ikhamateh of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba, revealed that they debated topics including climate change, youth empowerment, and responsible technology use. She said they overcame doubts and challenges by drawing inspiration from “the spirit of Delta” — the courage to excel and represent every basic school student in the state.
This victory not only cements Delta State’s position as a leader in education but also highlights the state’s dedication to youth development, global competitiveness, and academic excellence.