National Debate Competition

The HJIUF National Debate Competition organized by the Foundation is a prestigious event open to undergraduate students from all academic disciplines across the country. The competition serves as a platform for participants to showcase their debating skills, critical thinking abilities, and eloquence on a wide range of topics.

Participants, representing diverse academic backgrounds, engage in rigorous debates, tackling pressing issues and presenting well-researched arguments supported by evidence and logic. The competition fosters intellectual growth, encourages public speaking proficiency, and promotes constructive dialogue among the youth.

In the HJIUF National Debate Competition, undergraduate students from various disciplines come together to participate, creating a vibrant and inclusive environment where different perspectives and ideas are exchanged. This diversity enriches the debate experience and encourages participants to broaden their understanding of complex issues.

The impact of the National Debate Competition extends beyond honing debating skills. The competition provides a platform for students to network, forge connections, and develop lifelong friendships with peers who share a passion for intellectual discourse and advocacy. Participants gain valuable experiences that enhance their academic and personal development, including teamwork, leadership, and resilience.

The National Debate Competition empowers undergraduate students to become informed and engaged citizens. By promoting critical thinking, communication skills, and civic participation, the competition contributes to building a more inclusive and democratic society.

As an inclusive event that welcomes students from all academic disciplines, the National Debate Competition exemplifies the Foundation’s commitment to fostering intellectual growth, promoting dialogue across diverse perspectives, and empowering young leaders to drive positive change in their communities and beyond.

 

2023 Competition

The 2023 HJIUF National Debate Competition was won by Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria. Representing the university were Wuraola Okuneye and Runsewe Oluwakemi. Present at the award ceremony were the Vice Chancellor, Professor Johnson Agboola Ayodeji; the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Dr. Gbade Akinrimade; and several other faculty and university staff members.

The first runner-up was the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, represented by Ugochukwu Precious Nmesoma and Eze Nwakaego Ogochukwu, who also won the prize for Best Speaker. Distinguished attendees at the award ceremony included the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Professor Ifeoma Enemuo; the Sub Dean, Dr. Helen Agu; and the Faculty Officer and Research Team.

Award Ceremony at Olabisi Onabanjo University – Winners 2023 NDC Competition

Award Ceremony at University of Nigeria Nsukka – First Runners Up 2023 NDC Competition

2024 Competition

The 2024 HJIUF National Debate Competition was won by Lagos State University, represented by Oladiupo Ramadan Olalekan (Best Speaker) and Ajeniya Abdulquadri Oluwagbemiga, with researcher Musendiku Bisola Mulikat. The winner’s prize included N200,000, law books, a Certificate of Excellence, and an award plaque, proudly sponsored by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID).

The first runner-up was Ahmadu Bello University, represented by Elizabeth Uche Chris and Yusuf Jamiu Olatunji, with researchers Mustapha Hauwau and Ephraim Eseohe Edokpa. They received N100,000, law books, a Certificate of Excellence, and an award plaque, sponsored by our philanthropist partner, Barrister Wola Joseph.

The Best Speaker award, sponsored by Integrated Power Africa Ltd., included a prize of N50,000 and a three-month internship.

Through these annual events, the HJIUF National Debate Competition continues to recognize and reward excellence, foster intellectual growth, and inspire the next generation of leaders.