Governor Umo Eno Celebrates Akwa Ibom’s Triumph at 2024 International Schools Debate in Singapore, Led by NCI Student

In a proud moment for Akwa Ibom State, Governor Umo Eno has commended the delegation that represented Nigeria at the 2024 Bilateral International Schools Debate in Singapore. The team, which included students from Akwa Ibom, delivered a stunning performance, bringing home a well-deserved victory and reinforcing the state’s reputation for excellence in education.

Governor’s Congratulations During Budget Meeting

Governor Umo Eno extended his congratulations while addressing the State Executive Council on the second day of the 2025 Budget Estimate Review Meeting at the Ibom Hotels and Golf Resort, Uyo. He expressed his delight at the team’s victory and celebrated Akwa Ibom’s vital role in representing Nigeria at the international event.

In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno highlighted how this achievement reflects positively not only on the students but also on the state as a whole. He credited the hard work and preparation by the Ministry of Education and expressed gratitude to the federal government for selecting Akwa Ibom students to fly the nation’s flag in Singapore.

Special Acknowledgement for Education Minister, Professor Tahir Mamman

The Governor also expressed his appreciation to Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, for recognising the potential of Akwa Ibom’s young people. He noted that the Minister had personally called to share his happiness over the victory.

“The federal government chose Akwa Ibom to represent Nigeria in the international debate in Singapore, and our students excelled. I just received the news that they won. We give thanks to God for this achievement, and I commend the Ministry of Education and everyone who contributed to the success of these children. The Honourable Minister of Education was overjoyed when he called me to share the news,” the Governor stated.

Meet the Winning Delegation

The victorious debate team was made up of some of Akwa Ibom’s brightest students, selected from various schools across the state:

• Victory Mfonobong Daniel – Nigerian Christian Institute (NCI)
• Aniebiet-Abasi Enobong Etukudo – Government Secondary School, Afaha Eket
• Emmanuel Godfrey Wiafe – Community Secondary School, Aka Offot
• Favour Daniel Paul – Christian Secondary Commercial School, Uyo
• Marvelous Nkereuwem James – Tevees International Secondary School, Uyo

Guiding this talented group were Dr Glory Ekpo, a Director in the Ministry of Education, and Mrs Grace Godwin Edinyang, a debate coach from Government Secondary School, Afaha Eket, who ensured the students were well-prepared for the challenge. They were also supported by Dr Eka Elijah Maples, an Education Consultant from Mobil Pegasus School, who acted as an Observer during the competition.

The Value of Investing in Public Education

Governor Umo Eno’s remarks about the victory underscore the importance of supporting public education in Akwa Ibom. The students’ success is a testament to the dedication of teachers, the resilience of the students, and the state government’s commitment to providing quality education for all, especially those from public schools.

The Governor’s praise extended to everyone involved, especially the Ministry of Education, for their relentless efforts in preparing the students for this international competition. This win is seen as a milestone not only for the students but also for the state, demonstrating that Akwa Ibom’s youth are equipped to compete and succeed on the global stage.

Equitable Distribution of Local Government Appointments

In addition to celebrating the academic success of the students, Governor Umo Eno addressed the ongoing constitution of cabinets for the new Local Government Councils. He called on political leaders and stakeholders to ensure that appointments are distributed fairly across the state, making sure all communities are represented and reinforcing the presence of government at the grassroots level.

This message of inclusivity reflects the Governor’s broader vision of fairness and equity in governance, aimed at strengthening the relationship between government and the people it serves.

A Moment of Pride for Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom’s victory at the 2024 Bilateral International Schools Debate is a source of immense pride for the state, and it highlights the potential of its youth when given the right support. This achievement, especially with students like Victory Mfonobong Daniel from the Nigerian Christian Institute (NCI) playing a key role, showcases the excellence of the education system in the state.

Governor Umo Eno’s recognition of this success reinforces his administration’s focus on developing the state’s human capital through education. This win will inspire many more students to pursue their ambitions and serve as a reminder that Akwa Ibom remains committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders.

The Governor’s emphasis on educational investment, political inclusion, and youth empowerment shows a vision of progress where achievements in both academic and political spheres are celebrated for the betterment of the state.

Media Unit
Government House, Uyo
22/10/24