Abia public-school team wins international debate championship in Doha

Students from public schools in Abia State, representing Nigeria, have emerged overall champions at the 2026 International Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar. The team won four major trophies and 12 laurels after competing in a tournament that brought together more than 84 groups from eight countries. The championship was coordinated by the Vocara Institute and hosted by the QatarDebate Centre at Georgetown University, Doha.

Team Nigeria was presented by Presidential School Debate Nigeria and comprised five Abia public-school students: Christian Chinweotitom Esther, Chikodi Maureen, Akamnonu Franklin, Ifeanyichukwu Prisca and Simon Divine. The delegation was led by Lydia Onuoha, executive chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board. The students progressed through preliminary rounds against teams from the Philippines, Jordan, India and Qatar before reaching the finals.

They won the Best International School Debate Team award, described in the statement issued by Governor Alex Otti’s chief press secretary as the tournament’s biggest prize. Other honours included Overall Best Team in the junior category, the Best Leadership Award and the Best Debater Award. The team also received 12 laurels for individual and collective performances.

Ukoha Ukoha, the governor’s chief press secretary, said the result demonstrated the intellectual capacity of students in Abia public schools and reflected the state’s education model. Commissioner for Basic Education Goodluck Ubochi said officials were pleased with the outcome and regarded it as an indication that their education reforms were producing results. Ubochi said the state planned to host and celebrate the students after their return.

He added that other Abia students who had performed well in national competitions, including an essay contest, would also be recognised at a later event.