St. John Vianney Science College, Ukwulu, Anambra State, has emerged winner of the maiden edition of the UK–Nigeria Debate Competition, outshining top schools from both Nigeria and the United Kingdom in a contest aimed at promoting global discourse, critical reasoning, and oratory excellence.
The virtual competition, jointly organised by Debate Mate UK and Bring It On Africa, was held on June 19, 2025, and featured elite secondary schools from both countries. Representing Nigeria were Britarch School and Sure Start School (both from Abuja), St. Augustine’s College, Jos, and St. John Vianney Science College, while schools from England included Central Foundation Girls’ School, Maghull High School, and Shireland High School.
After intense rounds of debate and rigorous argumentation, St. John Vianney outclassed Maghull High School and Central Foundation Girls’ School to reach the final, where they faced St. Augustine’s College in an all-Nigerian grand finale. The Anambra-based school secured a decisive victory, earning the title of Inaugural UK–Nigeria Debate Champions and a spot in the upcoming debate rounds in London scheduled for December.
The winning team was made up of Chibueze Jennifer, Obiokafor Catherine, Eneoli Benjamin, and Onwuegbusi Valentine, under the guidance of their coach, John Onuigbo, with additional support from Chiagozie Udorji.
“This is a dream come true for all of us,” said Chibueze Jennifer after the win. “The level of competition was extremely high, especially going against top schools from the UK. But we believed in our preparation, trusted each other, and gave it our best.”
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Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obimma, director of the school and popularly known as Fr. Ebube Muonso, hailed the win as a product of the institution’s strong values and academic standards. “This victory is a validation of the quality of education and moral formation that St. John Vianney Science College stands for,” he said.
The achievement has since sparked reactions online, with many social media users attributing the school’s victory to the educational investments and values promoted by former Anambra State governor Peter Obi. “Peter Obi’s legacy!” wrote user @OmegaXDreams, while @odogwu_ogidi posted, “Peter Obi’s legacy.” Another user, @ObidientMCN, added, “@PeterObi effect continue…”
@iam_Daposh also weighed in, noting, “Thank God say no be INEC conduct the competition. No technical glitch.”
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Observers say the competition not only underscores the intellectual capability of Nigerian students but also highlights the impact of sustained commitment to education, especially in states like Anambra, where school development has been strongly emphasised in recent years.
With their win, St. John Vianney Science College and St. Augustine’s College, Jos—who finished as runner-up—will represent Nigeria in the extensional debate rounds set to hold in London later this year.
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