In a thrilling display of wit, critical thinking, and patriotism, students from the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) emerged victorious, securing the N20 million prize at the National Orientation Agency’s (NOA) 2024 Value-Train-to-Campus debate finale.
The event, held at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, brought together six zonal champions to deliberate on the theme: “NATIONAL VALUES CHARTER: Criticising and Dissenting Peacefully While Maintaining Love for Country.”
The debate was designed to foster constructive dialogue between citizens and the government. In his opening remarks, NOA Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, emphasized the importance of criticism in nation-building.
“Nigerians should view criticism objectively and disassociate the term from its negative nuances, as criticism exists to aid improvement and sustainability,” he said.
The maiden edition concluded with a public voting system, allowing online audiences to have the final say in determining the winner. While LAUTECH ultimately triumphed, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu encouraged all participants, stating, “Regardless, all of you are winners.”
The prestigious event featured finalists from six leading institutions representing different geopolitical zones:
1. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Osun State
2. Gombe Polytechnic, Bajoga, Gombe State
3. Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, Enugu State
4. University of Ilorin, Kwara State
5. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State
6. Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, Rivers State
A highlight of the event was the presence of Akintunde Sawyerr, Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). He elaborated on the organization’s mission and awarded special prizes to all six zonal contestants, with an additional N1 million cash prize going to the winning school.
Congratulations to LAUTECH for their outstanding achievement and commitment to national values!
