Fifteen-Year-Old Ifeoluwa Olaiya Wins Nigeria Info’s Debate Tournament

Fifteen-year-old Ifeoluwa Olaiya of Wellspring College won the eighth edition of Nigeria Info’s ‘I Beg to Differ’ debate tournament, securing a ₦1 million grand prize. The competition highlighted various views on President Tinubu’s leadership, with Olaiya emerging victorious after a compelling argument against the motion. The tournament saw participants discussing significant themes, with the top debaters qualifying for an upcoming championship.

Ifeoluwa Olaiya, a 15-year-old student from Wellspring College, has triumphed in the eighth edition of Nigeria Info’s ‘I Beg to Differ’ student debate tournament. She was awarded a grand prize of ₦1 million after an impressive final debate against her peer, Hameed Olarenwaju. The tournament’s final round centered on the motion regarding President Bola Tinubu’s qualifications as a leader for Nigeria.

In her argument against the motion, Olaiya expressed that many Nigerians perceive President Tinubu’s election as lacking legitimacy despite the Supreme Court’s ruling on electoral malpractice. She also critiqued his leadership role in ECOWAS, bringing attention to regional instability and the recent withdrawal of member states. Furthermore, she argued that his administration’s anti-corruption measures appeared biased, targeting opposition figures while ignoring allegations against prominent officials including Betta Edu and Sadiya Umar Farouq.

Conversely, Esther Joseph, a 16-year-old debater supporting the motion, highlighted the economic reforms spearheaded by President Tinubu, referencing his past governance in Lagos State. She pointed to the government’s investments in transportation, particularly in rail infrastructure, and asserted that under his leadership, states have achieved greater economic autonomy.

For the final round, the debaters shifted focus to discuss “The Nigerian Woman.” The judges ultimately rendered a split decision, declaring Ifeoluwa Olaiya the winner of the tournament.

Chalokwu Naomi claimed third place after Akinsulie Oyindamola withdrew from the competition. Femi Obong-Daniels, Group Manager of CoolWazobiaNigeriaInfo, along with sponsors such as Obiwezy and Diamonds and Pearls Travels, awarded cash prizes of ₦1 million, ₦500,000, and ₦250,000 to the top three winners, in addition to gift prizes. The top four debaters have automatically qualified for the upcoming I Beg to Differ Tournament of Champions set for later this year.

Ifeoluwa Olaiya’s victory in the ‘I Beg to Differ’ debate tournament highlights her critical thinking and oratory skills. Through her arguments, she addressed significant national issues regarding leadership legitimacy and governance. The tournament not only recognized her achievement but also provided a platform for youth engagement in public discourse, fostering a culture of dialogue and debate among young Nigerians.

Original Source: www.nigeriainfo.fm