Abia Govt Reaffirms Commitment to Improving Education as Vision Africa School Debate Champions Emerge

Abia State Government has reiterated its commitment to improving the education sector through investments in infrastructure, teacher development and strategic partnerships.

Wife of the Governor Mrs Priscilla Otti made the remarks during the Grand Finale and Prize Presentation Ceremony of the 14th Edition of the 2025/2026 Vision Africa Inter-School Debate Competition held in Umuahia.

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Mrs Otti who spoke through the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adaeze Emetu, said the administration of Governor Alex Otti remains committed to providing quality education and creating opportunities for every child in the state to thrive.

According to her, education is not only about passing examinations but about equipping young people with the knowledge, values and skills needed to succeed in life.

“True education goes beyond examinations, grades and certificates. It is about awakening curiosity, nurturing creativity, building character and preparing young minds to become responsible leaders and problem-solvers,” Mrs Otti said.

Mrs. Otti praised Vision Africa Radio 104.1 FM and its Founder and President, Archbishop Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, for sustaining the debate competition over the years, describing the initiative as a valuable platform for developing confident, articulate and informed young people.

She further commended the collaboration between Vision Africa and the Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, saying such partnerships are crucial to advancing educational excellence.

While congratulating the finalists and winners, Mrs. Otti urged students to remain focused on their academic and personal development.

“Read widely, learn continuously, ask questions, dream boldly and embrace discipline and hard work. You are the hope of your families, the pride of our state and the leaders who will shape tomorrow’s Abia,” she said.

In his remarks, the Founder and President of Vision Africa, Archbishop Dr. Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, harped on the need for safer schools across Nigeria.

He appealed to the government and security agencies to strengthen efforts to protect educational institutions and learners from insecurity.

Onuoha also expressed concern over the continuous captivity of students in different parts of the country, urging authorities to do more to secure their freedom and guarantee safe learning environments for all Nigerian children.

Chairman of the occasion and former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd.) who was represented by a former Director of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Mr. Kester Ekewe encouraged students to cultivate the habit of reading and research.

Ihejirika commended the participating schools for their impressive performances and research efforts, noting that the quality of arguments presented during the competition reflected the hard work of both students and teachers.

Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Vision Africa Radio, Barr. Saraphina Nkenta, thanked guests, education stakeholders, teachers, students and partners for their support towards the success of the programme.

She reaffirmed Vision Africa’s commitment to youth development, education and nation-building through initiatives that empower young people with knowledge, leadership skills and confidence.

In a vote of thanks on behalf of the students, Master Nwankwo Confidence expressed appreciation to Vision Africa, participating schools, teachers and organizers for providing a platform that promotes learning, critical thinking and healthy intellectual competition among young people.

He described the debate competition as a rewarding experience that exposed students to new ideas and inspired them to strive for excellence in their academic pursuits.

More than 80 schools reportedly registered for the competition, with the finalists emerging after several rounds of debates.

The Eagle News reports that Gradiel International School, Umuahia, emerged overall winners, with University Demonstration School, Ihie-Udume, Umuahia, finishing as first runner-up and Victorious Covenant High School secured third place.

The winners received trophies, cash prizes and educational support packages in recognition of their outstanding performances.

The debate, organised in collaboration with the Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, on the topic: “Is the Grading System an Accurate Measure of a Student’s Intelligence?”