Nigerian secondary school St. John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu in Anambra State, has achieved a landmark victory by emerging as the grand champion of the inaugural UK-Nigeria Debate Competition.
This virtual event, held on June 19, 2025, brought together leading schools from both Nigeria and the United Kingdom in a fierce intellectual contest that captivated audiences across the two nations.
Organized collaboratively by Bring It On Africa and Debate Mate UK, the competition aimed to foster cross-cultural dialogue while sharpening the critical thinking, oratory, and reasoning skills of all participants.
Among the Nigerian contenders were elite schools such as Britarch Schools and Sure Start School, both from Abuja; St. Augustine’s College, Jos; and St. John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu. Representing the UK were prestigious institutions including Central Foundation Girls’ School, Maghull High School, and Shireland High School.
After intense preliminary rounds testing their logic, public speaking, and rebuttal abilities, St. John Vianney Science College confidently advanced to the finals. The team outperformed British opponents Maghull High School and Central Foundation Girls’ School before facing an all-Nigerian final against St. Augustine’s College, Jos. In a gripping showdown, St. John Vianney secured a decisive victory, earning the prestigious title of Inaugural UK-Nigeria Debate Champions.
The winning team comprised Chibueze Jennifer, Obiokafor Catherine, Eneoli Benjamin, and Onwuegbusi Valentine, guided by coach John Onuigbo and supported by Chiagozie Udorji. Reflecting on their success, Chibueze Jennifer said, “Competing against top UK schools was challenging, but our preparation and teamwork paid off. Winning this title shows that Nigerian students can compete on the world stage when given the chance.”
School leadership shared this pride. Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obimma, also known as Fr. Ebube Muonso and Director of St. John Vianney Science College, hailed the victory as a testament to the school’s commitment to excellence, discipline, and global engagement. “Our students have excelled academically and shown the courage to engage in global conversations. This is just the beginning of many international achievements,” he said.
The UK-Nigeria Debate Championship provided a unique virtual platform for exploring important global topics like technology, environmental protection, and history, fostering cross-cultural understanding. Alongside St. John Vianney’s triumph, St. Augustine’s College finished as runner-up, securing their spot with St. John Vianney in the upcoming live Grand Finale set for December 2025 in London. The UK’s Shireland High School took third place overall.
As excitement builds for the December face-to-face finale in London, Nigerian schools are preparing to showcase their debating talents on an even broader international stage, promising a thrilling continuation of this pioneering competition.