The wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, has applauded the exceptional performance of students from Saint John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu, who emerged winners of the inaugural UK-Nigeria Debate Championship.
In a statement released over the weekend in Awka, Dr Soludo described the victory as a reflection of Anambra’s strong educational culture and commitment to nurturing world-class talent. The students beat top schools from both Nigeria and the United Kingdom to clinch the overall prize in the global virtual debate, which held on June 19, 2025.
According to her, “Feat is only relatable to Anambra State. Our home is the moulding ground for exceptional talents and record setters who are tapping greatly from the abundant opportunities that our administration is offering.”
“By defeating Ivy League schools to clinch the coveted grand prize, our great students have shown, once again, that education lives in the core of Anambra’s most cherished dream. It’s a philosophy that our administration clearly understands and is constantly investing in to achieve the kind of result that we’re just celebrating.”
The UK-Nigeria Debate Championship, hosted virtually, was jointly organised by Bring It on Africa and Debate Mate UK to promote critical thinking, cultural exchange, and public speaking among secondary school students in both countries.
Participating schools from Nigeria included Britarch Schools and Sure Start School in Abuja, St. Augustine’s College in Jos, and the winning team from St. John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu. Representing the UK were Central Foundation Girls’ School, Maghull High School, and Shireland High School.
Dr Soludo praised the students — Chibueze Jennifer, Obiokafor Catherine, Eneoli Benjamin, and Onwuegbusi Valentine — along with their mentor, John Onuigbo, for raising the Anambra flag high on an international stage. She described the achievement as another example of how Anambra continues to lead in human capital development through education.
She also extended her congratulations to the staff and management of the winning school in Dunukofia Local Government Area, commending their efforts in guiding students towards meaningful academic and career experiences.
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