Abia Students Triumph at 2026 International Debate Championship

Students from Abia public schools achieved remarkable success at the 2026 International Schools Debate Championship held in Doha, Qatar, winning the Best International School Debate Team award along with three additional trophies and 12 performance laurels. The announcement was made on October 4 by Ukoha Ukoha, Chief Press Secretary to Abia State Governor Alex Otti.

The competition, organized by the Vocara Institute and hosted by the QatarDebate Centre at Georgetown University, featured over 84 teams from eight countries. The Nigerian team, composed entirely of Abia public school students—Christian Chinweotitom Esther, Chikodi Maureen, Akamnonu Franklin, Ifeanyichukwu Prisca, and Simon Divine—was led by Ambassador Lydia Onuoha, Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Board.

They advanced to the finals by defeating teams from the Philippines, Jordan, India, and Qatar. In addition to the main award, they secured the Overall Best Team in the Junior Category, the Best Leadership Award, and the Best Debater Award.

Elder Goodluck Ubochi, the state Commissioner for Basic Education, stated that the results reflect ongoing educational reforms in Abia.