Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday, rewarded members of the state’s five-man contingent that won the 2025 World Basic Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar, with N20 million each — extending the same amount to their handlers in recognition of their historic victory.
Receiving the champions, their parents, and officials at Government House, Asaba, Oborevwori hailed the win as “a proud moment for Delta State and Nigeria,” and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to educational excellence. He decorated the students with their medals and received the championship trophy from Elder Dare Oritu, National Coordinator, President’s Schools Debate Nigeria.
“Delta State is known not only for oil production and talents in comedy, music, and sports but also for its 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 handlers for their roles in the achievement, stressing that education remains the most valuable legacy any parent can give to their children. The governor urged other students to emulate the champions’ discipline, focus, and hard work, noting that such virtues could help reduce crime in society.
Introducing the team, Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, thanked Oborevwori for his consistent support to the education sector, recalling the governor’s prayers for the team before their departure and noting his prompt payment of the 2025 UBEC-SUBEB counterpart funding.
Speaking for the winners, Splendour Ikhamateh of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba, said they triumphed over initial doubts by debating global issues like climate change, youth empowerment, and responsible technology use, drawing strength from “the spirit of Delta” to represent every basic school student in the state.
