By Kennedy Atevure
The Olotu and Ekuogbe Rowland Akpodiete Foundation (OERAF), led by its Executive Director, Dr. Olotu Otemu Akpodiete, Ph.D. (JP), organized a memorial lecture on April 10, 2025, focusing on the benefits of debate competitions for students in Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State. The event was held in collaboration with GCU Class 92 in honour of the late Chief Ekuogbe Rowland Akpodiete, PhD, grandfather of Dr Olotu Akpodiete.
In his welcome address, Dr. Akpodiete urged students to prioritize their academics, assuring them of OERAF’s ongoing commitment to supporting quality education in Nigeria.
Chairman of the event, Olorogun Dr. Chris Oharisi, who is the Chairman of the Governing Council at Delta State College of Health Science and Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, advised the students to remain optimistic about their future. He emphasized the role of debates in enhancing public speaking and intellectual confidence.
Mr. Samson Obor, Principal of Government College Ughelli, commended OERAF for its initiative and encouraged students to embrace debate activities, noting its importance in academic and personal development.
Delivering the memorial lecture, Olorogun (Mrs.) Grace Akpodiete outlined four key benefits of debate competitions for students: academic enhancement, personal growth, career advancement, and essential life skills. She concluded that debating equips students with a broad range of skills vital for their academic, personal, and professional lives.
In a tribute to the late Chief Ekuogbe Rowland Akpodiete, Barrister (Mrs.) Agboka Akpodiete-Omale reflected on his legacy of integrity, discipline, community service, and philanthropy. She described him as a principled leader and generous philanthropist.
Chief Dr. Linda Ikpuri, in her closing remarks, lauded OERAF’s contributions to youth development and pledged her support for future collaborations aimed at building a better society.
The event also featured the presentation of cash prizes to participating schools, including Lulu Schools, Government College Ughelli, Otovwodo Grammar School, Oharisi Secondary School, Transcorp Secondary School, Ekakpamre, Girls Model Secondary School Evwreni, Divine Fire School, and Ekiugbo Grammar School.
