Sterling Bank Sponsors Lagos Schools Debate Competition

Sterling Bank sponsored the 2026 Lagos Schools Debate Competition (LSDC), reinforcing its commitment to youth development. The three-day intellectual contest brought together 19 junior and senior secondary schools from six educational districts in Lagos State.

The competition utilized the junior world school debate format, challenging students to demonstrate intellectual agility and structured argumentation under pressure. Chief Marketing Officer Donatu Okpako noted that the initiative aligns with the bank's educational pillar, promoting growth in critical sectors for national development.

Peju Ibekwe, Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Bank Foundation, emphasized the importance of expanding access to quality intellectual opportunities for students, regardless of socio-economic background. The competition concluded with WellSprings College Omol winning the senior category and Maryland Comprehensive Secondary School finishing as the first runner-up.

The bank's sponsorship is part of a broader investment in education, including a N2 billion scholarship fund aimed at fully funding undergraduate education for 600 students across partner institutions.