SIX INSTITUTIONS EMERGE ZONAL CHAMPIONS IN 2025 NATIONAL CAMPUS DEBATE, ADVANCE TO GRAND FINALE
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has released the official list of winners from the Zonal Face-to-Face phase of the 2025 National Campus Debate, its flagship civic engagement programme aimed at promoting intellectual excellence, national consciousness, and value-driven dialogue among Nigerian youths.
Following the conclusion of the zonal rounds across the six geopolitical zones, NOA received petitions from some participating institutions requesting a review of the results. In line with its commitment to transparency, fairness, and institutional credibility, the Director General of NOA approved the constitution of an Independent Screening Panel to reassess all submissions.
The panel, which convened in Abuja on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, was made up of seven eminent Nigerians drawn from diverse sectors, including:
Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole (Defence Headquarters)
Mr. Dele Oyewale (Spokesperson, EFCC)
Mrs. Ene Obi (Former Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria)
Mrs. Maupe Ogun (Broadcast Journalist, Channels Television)
Mr. Japheth Omojuwa (Author and Publisher)
Emmanuel Ojukwu (Rtd), Former Commissioner of Police
Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon (Former Member, House of Representatives)
Using the standardised scoring framework, the panel reviewed full video recordings of each zonal debate, evaluating knowledge of subject matter, delivery, coordination, rebuttal strength, and overall impact.
At the end of the process, the following institutions were confirmed as zonal winners:
North Central – Federal University, Lokoja (32 points)
North East – Federal University, Wukari (35.1 points)
North West – Kebbi State Polytechnic, Dakingari (32.02 points)
South East – Nigerian British University (32.33 points)
South South – Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (33.63 points)
South West – Mountain Top University (36 points)
These six institutions will now represent their respective zones at the Grand Finale, scheduled to hold at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, as part of Nigeria’s Independence Week celebrations. The high-profile event will also feature the Presidential Unveiling of the National Values Charter, underscoring the intersection of youth empowerment, civic values, and national leadership.
Reaffirming the Agency’s dedication to youth development, integrity, and nation-building, the Director General of NOA praised all participating institutions for their discipline, passion, and intellectual contributions.
“The National Campus Debate is more than just a competition. It is a platform for preparing young Nigerians to lead with knowledge, values, and civic responsibility,” he said.
The Agency extends its appreciation to all stakeholders and invites the Nigerian public to follow the Grand Finale via NOA’s official media platforms and nationwide broadcasts.
E-Signed:
Bala Musa,
Director, Communication and Media
National Orientation Agency
