2025 Akintola Williams Youth Debate Competition
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The 2025 edition of the prestigious Akintola Williams Youth Debate Competition was held on May 24, 2025, at the headquarters of NEM Insurance Plc in Obanikoro, Lagos. The event brought together bright young minds from 12 secondary schools across Nigeria, showcasing the power of debate in shaping critical thinking and responsible citizenship.
After a series of intellectually stimulating sessions, Keke Senior High School, Ifako-Ijaiye emerged as the first-place winner, earning a brand-new laptop and a trophy for their school. Rainbow College, Surulere came in second, receiving tablets and a trophy, while Oriwu Senior Model College, Ikorodu took third place, going home with mobile phones and a trophy.
A standout moment of the day was the announcement of Sapphire Ekeng, a student from Rainbow College Surulere, as the Best Speaker of the competition. Both the Best Speaker and the winning student were awarded internship placements with the British Council and were featured on a radio programme, further spotlighting their talents and providing meaningful platforms for growth and recognition.
In his address, Mr. Sola Oyetayo, President of the Nigeria-Britain Association (N-BA), applauded the participating students and schools for their performance and sportsmanship. He noted that the competition continues to serve as a powerful platform for nurturing future leaders.
The debate is named in honour of the late Mr. Akintola Williams, African’s first chartered accountant and revered Patron of the Association until his passing in 2023. His enduring legacy of integrity, education, and youth development remains a guiding light for the N-BA and its initiatives.
This year’s edition was made possible through the generous support of key partners; NEM Insurance Plc, Scib Nigeria & Co. Limited, and the British Council, all of whom have shown commendable commitment to promoting youth development in Nigeria.
With participation from schools across the country and themes that challenge students to think critically and communicate effectively, the Akintola Williams Youth Debate Competition continues to inspire excellence and prepare young Nigerians for leadership in a global society.
As a non-profit organisation committed to strengthening relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, the Nigeria-Britain Association continues to provide impactful platforms for dialogue, collaboration, and youth empowerment through initiatives like the Akintola Williams Youth Debate.
