May 1, (THEWILL) – An NGO, Yiaga Africa, has introduced a debating competition among Nigerian universities aimed at reshaping the political future of the country.
The Programme Officer, Yiaga Africa, Olaniyan Sanusi, said in Maiduguri, Tuesday, April 30, that the debate would cover the broad gamut of national discourse.
He was speaking at the opening of the North-East Zonal chapter of the debate titled: ‘My Nigeria – Our Nigeria’, at the University of Maiduguri
The Yiaga Africa-organised zonal debating competition drew participants from Gombe State University, Bauchi State University, Yobe State University and University of Maiduguri respectively.
Sanusi explained that the debate had four thematic topics: citizenship, national values, political and governance, the future of NYSC and whether elections compulsory or voluntary.
University of Maiduguri emerged first and Gombe State University, second at the competition.
“We want to see young people across the country debating on their visions and ideas of Nigeria; what does Nigeria means to them and what does Nigerian citizenship mean to them,” he said.
“The debate is an opportunity for universities across the country to come together, express themselves and have honest conversations on national issues,”
he stated, adding that it is a platform for students to contribute actively to the discourse on the future of Nigeria.
Sanusi noted that the debate symbolised the essence of critical engagement and visionary leadership.
“Also, this debate gives them the platfdiscussionhave a discuss on the issue that bothers them with regards to governance while prizes will be awarded to winners.
“The competition will embrace the opportunity to be a part of this transformative journey and join in shaping the future narrative of Nigeria.” Sanusi disclosed.
The Yiaga Africa official disclosed that the debates were held at each of the six geo-political zones, and that winners at the zonal competition would be invited to the grand finale in Abuja in May.
He said the competition is a Yiaga Africa initiative with support from the Open Society Foundations and in partnership with the National Universities Commission and All Nigerian University Debating Championship.
About the Author
I am Ladi Dapson, a general writer with thewill. I cover Borno and Yobe states respectively.
I based Maiduguri, Borno State Capital.
I can be reached via ladi4media@gmail.com.
Very high and kind regards!
