Students from public schools in Abia State have recorded a major international feat after emerging overall champions at the 2026 International Schools Debate Championship held in Doha, Qatar.
Representing Nigeria under the Presidential School Debate Nigeria, the five-member Abia team defeated contenders from several countries to claim the top honours at the prestigious competition.
The championship, coordinated by Vocara Institute and hosted by the QatarDebate Centre at Georgetown University, Doha, featured more than 84 teams from eight countries, including Qatar, India, Jordan, the Philippines and Kenya.
The Nigerian team, made up entirely of Abia public school students, advanced through the preliminary stages before securing a place in the finals.
At the end of the competition, the team won four major trophies, including the Best International School Debate Team, described as the biggest award of the tournament.
The students also secured the Overall Best Team in the Junior Category, Best Leadership Award and Best Debater Award, alongside 12 individual laurels for outstanding performances.
The victorious team comprised Christian Chinweotitom Esther, Chikodi Maureen, Akamnonu Franklin, Ifeanyichukwu Prisca and Simon Divine.
The contingent was led by the Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board, Amb. Lydia Ezihe Onuoha, alongside representatives of the Presidency and Presidential School Debate Nigeria.
The victory marks a significant international achievement for the students and further highlights the competitive potential of Nigerian public-school students on the global stage.
The Abia team’s performance has brought recognition to both the state and Nigeria, with the students returning home with multiple honours from one of the world’s prominent school debating platforms.
Congratulations to Team Abia and Team Nigeria on the outstanding achievement.
