It was a proud moment for Nigerian education as St. John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu, Anambra State, emerged as the grand champion of the first-ever UK-Nigeria Debate Competition.
The students didn’t just clinch the title; they outperformed their peers from both Nigeria and the United Kingdom in a high-stakes virtual showdown that united young minds across continents.
The competition, which took place on June 19, 2025, was a collaborative effort between Bring It On Africa and Debate Mate UK. Created to encourage cross-cultural understanding while sharpening students’ reasoning, public speaking, and critical thinking skills, the event attracted top-performing secondary schools from both nations.
Four Nigerian schools, Britarch Schools, Abuja, Sure Start School, Abuja, St. Augustine’s College, Jos, and St. John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu, joined their counterparts from the UK, including Central Foundation Girls’ School, Maghull High School, and Shireland High School. From the outset, the competition was stiff. Debaters tackled themes from technology and history to the environment, with each team delivering arguments that challenged ideas and perspectives.
St. John Vianney Science College stood out from the start. The team powered through the preliminary rounds, defeating UK representatives Maghull High School and Central Foundation Girls’ School with sharp rebuttals and a calm, commanding presence. They earned their place in the finals, an all-Nigerian clash against another strong team, St. Augustine’s College, Jos.
The final round was gripping. Both teams delivered arguments that reflected deep research, clarity, and confidence. But in the end, St. John Vianney’s poise and persuasive power won them the title of Inaugural UK, Nigeria Debate Champions.
The team, Chibueze Jennifer, Obiokafor Catherine, Eneoli Benjamin, and Onwuegbusi Valentine, was coached by John Onuigbo, with added guidance from Chiagozie Udorji. Their victory means they will now represent Nigeria at the international debate rounds in London this December.
Chibueze Jennifer, visibly elated after the win, said the experience was life-changing. “This is a dream come true for all of us. The level of competition was extremely high, especially going against top schools from the UK. But we believed in our preparation, trusted each other, and gave it our best. Winning this title has shown us that Nigerian students can stand toe to toe with anyone in the world when given the platform.”
The school’s director, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obimma, widely known as Fr. Ebube Muonso, celebrated the win as a reflection of what the institution stands for. “This victory is a validation of the quality of education and moral formation that St. John Vianney Science College stands for. Our students have demonstrated not only academic brilliance but also the courage to engage in global discourse. We are proud of their achievement and trust that this marks the beginning of many more global successes for them and Nigeria.”
The UK, Nigeria Debate Championship was more than a contest. It was a rare chance for students to tackle real-world issues and build connections that stretch beyond borders. St. Augustine’s College, Jos, which finished as runner-up, also secured a spot at the upcoming London rounds, while Shireland High School from the UK took third place.
The event has set a new standard for international student engagement and has proven that when the platform is right, young Nigerian voices can rise and shine on any global stage.
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