Anambra First Lady Hails Students of St. John Vianney Science College for UK-Nigeria Debate Victory
Anambra students shine on global stage, winning top prize at UK-Nigeria Debate Championship.
Governor’s wife hails their brilliance, calling it proof of Anambra’s strong education values.
The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Nonye Soludo, has commended the remarkable achievement of students from Saint John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu, who emerged champions at the inaugural UK-Nigeria Debate Championship.
In a statement issued from Awka, Mrs. Soludo celebrated the students’ victory, describing it as another outstanding milestone that aligns with the tradition of excellence associated with Anambra State. She said the win was a testament to the state’s long-standing reputation for academic brilliance and talent development.
The championship, held virtually on June 19, 2025, was jointly organized by Bring It On Africa and Debate Mate UK. It aimed to promote cross-cultural dialogue while enhancing the critical thinking, public speaking, and reasoning skills of participating students from both Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
The competition featured top schools from both countries. Representing Nigeria were Britarch Schools and Sure Start School, both in Abuja; St. Augustine’s College, Jos; and Saint John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu. The UK was represented by Central Foundation Girls’ School, Maghull High School, and Shireland High School.
St. John Vianney Science College outperformed all other schools to clinch the top prize, earning admiration for their eloquence and intellect.
Describing the accomplishment as “uniquely Anambra,” Mrs. Soludo stated: “Our state continues to nurture extraordinary talents who thrive because of the vibrant educational environment our administration is committed to providing.”
She added that the students’ ability to outshine elite institutions speaks volumes about Anambra’s focus on quality education, which remains central to the state’s developmental goals. “Education lies at the heart of our dream for Anambra. It’s a dream our administration understands well and is working tirelessly to achieve,” she said.
The First Lady praised the team members Chibueze Jennifer, Obiokafor Catherine, Eneoli Benjamin, and Onwuegbusi Valentine along with their coach, John Onuigbo, for raising the Anambra flag high on an international stage. She lauded them for showing that education remains the foundation of the state’s human capital strength.
Mrs. Soludo also extended her appreciation to the staff and management of Saint John Vianney Science College, located in Dunukofia Local Government Area, for their dedication to student development and for creating avenues that prepare young minds for global opportunities.
