Katsina state Governor, Dikko Radda has expressed joy over the State Debate Team’s remarkable triumph at the Bilateral Nigeria-Indonesia Debate Championship held in April 2024.
According to the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed, the competition, which took place at the National Debate Communications Centre at the University of Jakarta, Indonesia, saw the Katsina team emerged the undisputed champions.
He added that the feat comes on the heels of the team’s impressive second-place finish at the National Presidential Debate Championship, which secured their qualification to represent Nigeria on the international stage.
Mohammed said in a statement “Notably, this marks the second time the Katsina team has flown Nigeria’s flag with distinction abroad, having previously clinched victory against Malaysian competitors.”
Governor Radda also remarked, “This victory is a testament to our substantial investment in the education sector. It exemplifies the exceptional talent and potential of our children when provided with the right resources and opportunities. Our administration will continue to prioritise and implement policies and actions that foster such outstanding achievements, positioning Katsina State as a beacon of educational excellence in Nigeria and beyond.”
The Governor further noted “These young champions have not only brought honour to Katsina State but have also showcased Nigeria’s intellectual prowess on the global stage. Their success reinforces our belief that with proper nurturing and support, our students can compete and excel at the highest international levels.”
The Governor’s Chief Press Secretary further revealed that in recognition of the remarkable feat, the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf T. Sununu, on 5,July,2024, alongside the National Coordinator and President School Debate Nigeria (PSDN), Elder Dare Oritu, received the Katsina State Debate Team.
Dr Sununu commended the team for standing out among equals, especially at the international level. Subsequently, the Minister presented the team with trophy, medals, and certificates, acknowledging their remarkable performance.
The victorious team, led by
Hajiya Hadiza Abubakar Yar’adua, the Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, comprised six brilliant students from schools across Katsina State.
They include Maryam Yusuf Ma’aruf (W.T.C. Katsina), Fatima Musa Halliru (Family Support School), Halimatu Hussaini Dangani (Family Support School), and Adamu Abubakar (Magamar Jibia Day Community Secondary School). The remaining are Muna Sai’d Iqbal (Magamar Jibia Day Community School), and Asma’u Adamu (Magamar Jibia Day Community School).
The Katsina Debate Team has Dr. Isah Idris Zakari as Team Manager, Other team members include Coach Suleiman Umar, Matron Hauwa’u Mohd Kai-kai, and adjudicator Moh Salisu Higaf, These dedicated team provided guidance, support, and ensured the team’s well-being throughout their journey.
According to Governor Radda, “This achievement transcends a mere victory for the debate team; it represents a triumph for our entire education system. It serves as a powerful validation of our strategic focus on education and youth empowerment. We are unwavering in our commitment to creating more opportunities for our students to showcase their talents and compete on global platforms. This is merely the beginning of even greater accomplishments to come from Katsina State.”
