Anambra Students Triumph in International Debate, Set to Represent Nigeria on London’s Global Stage

 

St. John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu, Anambra State, has written its name in golden letters after clinching the championship title at the first-ever UK-Nigeria Debate Competition. Their extraordinary performance not only placed them ahead of their Nigerian peers but also saw them outperform schools from the United Kingdom, reaffirming Nigeria's growing intellectual footprint on the global stage.

Organized through a joint initiative by Debate Mate UK and Bring It On Africa, the virtual event aimed to promote intellectual exchange, critical thinking, and public speaking between secondary schools from both countries. The competition, which took place on June 19, 2025, attracted top-tier schools from Nigeria and the UK, sparking a wave of excitement among students, educators, and observers from both nations.

Four Nigerian schools—Britarch Schools (Abuja), Sure Start School (Abuja), St. Augustine’s College (Jos), and St. John Vianney Science College (Anambra)—were selected to compete. Representing the United Kingdom were renowned institutions including Central Foundation Girls’ School, Maghull High School, and Shireland High School. Each school brought a unique voice to the table, engaging in debates that covered urgent global issues such as environmental sustainability, the role of technology in modern society, and historical perspectives.

St. John Vianney’s team, comprising Chibueze Jennifer, Obiokafor Catherine, Eneoli Benjamin, and Onwuegbusi Valentine, rose to the challenge with unmatched eloquence and intellectual clarity. Guided by coach John Onuigbo and supported by Chiagozie Udorji, the team demonstrated a balance of rigorous preparation and calm confidence that resonated with judges and spectators alike.

The competition was intense from the outset, with each round demanding quick thinking, strong logic, and the ability to dismantle opposing arguments in real time. After emerging victorious in the preliminaries, the Anambra-based team faced Maghull High School and Central Foundation Girls’ School in knockout stages, dismantling well-constructed British arguments with poise and precision.

Reaching the final was already a significant accomplishment, but their crowning moment came when they faced St. Augustine’s College, Jos, in an all-Nigerian final. Both teams displayed a high level of analytical rigor and rhetorical finesse. However, it was St. John Vianney’s command of structure, persuasive tone, and teamwork that ultimately earned them the championship title.

Following the win, Chibueze Jennifer, who stood out as a speaker of rare poise and clarity, shared her thoughts: “We put our hearts into this. Competing with students from the UK was not just about winning, but about proving that we belong on the global stage. This victory is the result of tireless effort and unity.”

The leadership of St. John Vianney Science College expressed overwhelming pride. Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obimma, fondly known as Fr. Ebube Muonso and Director of the school, described the victory as a reflection of the school’s ethos of excellence and moral integrity. “Our students have carried the flag of our institution and of Nigeria with dignity. Their success reminds us of what focused, values-based education can produce,” he said.

Adding to the excitement, St. Augustine’s College, Jos, which came in second, also qualified for the upcoming grand finale of the UK-Nigeria Debate, scheduled to be held in London in December 2025. Shireland High School, representing the UK, secured the third-place position.

Unlike many competitions that dwell strictly on academics, this debate series focused on equipping students with the tools to explore pressing global issues while developing intercultural fluency. It offered students an avenue to question assumptions, defend ideas, and learn from differing perspectives. The themes reflected challenges and opportunities facing their generation, urging them to become not just debaters, but thoughtful global citizens.

Looking ahead, both Nigerian finalists are now preparing for the international showdown in London. The December event will be held face-to-face and promises to bring even more visibility to the talents of these young orators. Organizers have expressed hope that this initiative will become an annual tradition, helping to foster mutual respect and intellectual growth among youths from different parts of the world.

With this triumph, St. John Vianney Science College has become a beacon of what is possible when talent meets opportunity. Their journey from Ukwulu to the world stage is a testament to the potential that lies within Nigerian education when given the right platform and support. As preparations begin for the December event, all eyes are now on London, where these Nigerian students will once again rise to meet the world with courage, intellect, and unshakable confidence.