The Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Wasiu Adesina, has rewarded winners of the 2024 inter-school debate competition and reaffirmed his commitment to improving education in the area.
Adesina presented cash prizes to the winning schools at the council secretariat in Ikorodu on Thursday, recognizing their outstanding performance in the competition.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 16 public secondary schools participated in the debate, which ran from Sept. 18 to Oct. 9, 2024, at the Lagos State University of Science and Technology.
Elepe Community High School, which emerged as the overall winner, received a N500,000 cash prize. Oriwu Senior Model College, the first runner-up, won N300,000, while Ipakodo Senior Grammar School, the second runner-up, got N200,000.
Adesina emphasized the local government’s commitment to education, describing it as the foundation for national development and a pathway to opportunity.
“We have invested in education by constructing classrooms at Salvation Army and African Bethel primary schools, repairing school fences, and providing desks and chairs at Agura Primary School,” he said.
He also acknowledged the support of Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, who was present at the debate’s grand finale.
To further encourage students, Adesina said his administration had been distributing free General Certificate of Education (GCE) and Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) forms to deserving students. He promised to sustain the initiative beyond his tenure.
Senator Mukhail Abiru (Lagos-East), represented by his media aide, Enitan Olukotun, commended Adesina for his dedication to education and grassroots empowerment. He urged other council leaders to adopt similar initiatives.
“This is a laudable programme, which aligns with my agenda on youth empowerment and education, especially for students in public schools,” Abiru said.
Federal lawmaker Babajimi Benson, represented by Musibaudeen Alejo, also praised the initiative, describing it as a strong motivation for students.
Miss Onah Grace, lead speaker of Ipakodo Senior Grammar School, expressed gratitude for the competition, saying it helped boost students’ knowledge and confidence in public speaking.
