Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, has celebrated the remarkable achievement of Team Kwara, who emerged champions at the recently concluded National Presidential Debate held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Speaking at a reception in honour of the victorious students at the Government House, Ilorin, the Governor congratulated the team for their brilliance and dedication, which he described as a source of pride and inspiration to the state.
In recognition of their achievement, Governor AbdulRazaq announced a cash reward of ₦1 million for each student and ₦500,000 for each of their coaches, acknowledging their commitment to excellence and their role in bringing honour to Kwara.
“Thank you for making Kwara proud,” the Governor said. “You have made us happy, and I promise to make you happy in return.”
He also extended his appreciation to the Directors at the Ministry of Education, dedicated teachers across the state, the coaching instructors, and all students whose efforts contributed to the success.
Earlier in the event, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, commended the Governor for his transformative leadership and investment in education. He noted that the administration’s consistent support for public schools is now yielding visible and commendable results.
Dr. Olohungbebe encouraged the students to remain focused and continue striving for excellence, adding that the government remains committed to repositioning public education in Kwara.
The debate team, which represented Kwara State, comprised:
Moshood Kamaldeen – Government Secondary School, Ilorin
AbdulAzeez Aishat – Nawarudeen Grammar School, Offa
AbdulAzeez Mudhasir – St. Anthony’s Secondary School, Ilorin
Usman Maryam – Ilorin Grammar School, Ilorin
Team Kwara emerged overall winners of the debate competition, defeating strong contenders from Rivers State and Enugu State, who came second and third respectively.
Dignitaries at the event included the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission, Mallam Tahueed Abubakar Bello; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, Mrs. Olanrewaju Rebecca Bake; Directors from the Ministry, principals of secondary schools, and other top officials.
