Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has announced a total cash gift of N100 million to celebrate the state’s victory at the 2025 World Basic Schools Debate Championship, held in Doha, Qatar.

At a reception in Government House, Asaba, on Thursday, the governor presented N20 million each to the five student debaters and an equal sum to each of their two handlers. The winning team had represented Nigeria at the global contest, emerging champions after debating on topics such as climate change, youth empowerment, and responsible use of technology.

Oborevwori hailed the students for putting both Nigeria and Delta State on the world stage, noting that the state’s achievements extend beyond oil and entertainment to excellence in academics. He described education as the greatest inheritance parents can give their children, and urged other students to emulate the champions’ dedication, discipline, and hard work — qualities he said could help curb societal ills.

“This victory is a proud moment for us and reinforces our administration’s commitment to academic excellence,” the governor said.

The Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board, Samuel Mariere, praised the governor’s sustained investment in education and recalled that he had personally prayed for the team before their departure. He also highlighted the prompt release of Delta’s 2025 counterpart funds for UBEC-SUBEB projects.

Speaking on behalf of the winners, Splendour Ikhamateh of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba, said the team initially had doubts but drew confidence from “the spirit of Delta” to claim the title.