Published by Olumide Donald on Sunday 15, June 2025
In a thrilling display of intellect , confidence and eloquence, Agege Local Government Education Authority (LGEA) has emerged as the overall winner of the LGNA public primary schools debate finals, taking home the impressive #3 million grand prize!
Held at the iconic Glover Memorial Hall in Lagos Island, the atmosphere was electric as top-performing pupils from public primary schools across Lagos battled with words and wit. Ikeja and Alimosho LGEAs took the second and third spots respectively, proving once again that the future of Lagos is brimming with bright young minds.
This year’s debate finals marked the third edition of the LGNA initiative, which began in 2022 with the mission to encourage critical thinking , build self confidence, and nurture public speaking skills in primary school pupils.And what a journey it’s been!
The event drew the attention of key dignitaries and education advocates, including the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr.(Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Who applauded the young debaters and praised the initiative for investing in the intellectual growth of children at the foundational level.
Also present was the Ambassador of Ireland to Nigeria, Mr Peter Ryan, along with Mr .Olusola Bakare, Commercial Manager at ORNUA Diary Products Nigeria Limited. Both personalities lauded the program and reiterated the importance of public -private partnerships in enhancing educational opportunities for young Nigerians.
Mr Tunde Jakande, CEO of LG News Academy and convener of the debate initiative , expressed delight at the successful hosting of what he described as the ” epic debate fiesta.” He noted that the debate, which started in 2022, continues to serve as a vital tool in identifying and nurturing young intellectuals within the state’s public school system.
”This is more than a competition,” said Jakande. ” It is a movement to groom the next generation of leaders and thinkers, right from their formative years.”
The LGNA Public Primary Schools Debate Event Continues to gain momentum and relevance , offering not only prizes but lifelong skills and motivation for participating pupils.
As the curtains fall on the 2025 edition, stakeholders across the education and development sectors have reaffirmed their support for the initiative, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts in empowering Nigeria’s future leaders through platforms like this.
Congratulations once again to Agege LGEA and all the brilliant young participants who made this year’s debate unforgettable, just as one of the coordinator’s remarked at the commencement of the Debate finals ” Everyone is a Winner.”. And thus the spirit of sportsmanship was imbibed in the hearts of all who graced the nostalgic debate finals held at the Glover Memorial Hall. Marina Lagos Fortnightly.
Ayobo/IpajaTV.com 