The Executive Governor of Katsina State, His Excellency, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda PhD CON, has expressed profound joy following the Katsina State Debate Team’s remarkable triumph at the Bilateral Nigeria-Indonesia Debate Championship held in April 2024.
The competition, which took place at the National Debate Communications Centre at the University of Jakarta, Indonesia, saw the Katsina team emerge as the undisputed champions.
This feat comes on the heels of the team’s impressive second-place finish at the National Presidential Debate Championship, which secured their qualification to represent Nigeria on the international stage. Notably, this marks the second time the Katsina team has flown Nigeria’s flag with distinction abroad, having previously clinched victory against Malaysian competitors.
While congratulating the team,
Governor Radda remarked, “”This victory is a testament to our substantial investment in the education sector. It exemplifies the exceptional talent and potential of our children when provided with the right resources and opportunities. Our administration will continue to prioritise and implement policies and actions that foster such outstanding achievements, positioning Katsina State as a beacon of educational excellence in Nigeria and beyond.”
The visibly elated Governor further noted that, “These young champions have not only brought honour to Katsina State but have also showcased Nigeria’s intellectual prowess on the global stage. Their success reinforces our belief that with proper nurturing and support, our students can compete and excel at the highest international levels.”
In recognition of this remarkable feat, on the 5th July, 2024, the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf T. Sununu, alongside the National Coordinator and President School Debate Nigeria (PSDN), Elder Dare Oritu, received the Katsina State Debate Team.
Dr 𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐮𝐧𝐮 commended the team for standing out among equals, especially at the international level. Subsequently, the Minister presented the team with trophy, medals, and certificates, acknowledging their remarkable performance.
The victorious team, led by
Hajiya Hadiza Abubakar Yar’adua, the Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, comprised six brilliant students from schools across Katsina State. They include Maryam Yusuf Ma’aruf (W.T.C. Katsina), Fatima Musa Halliru (Family Support School), Halimatu Hussaini Dangani (Family Support School), and Adamu Abubakar (Magamar Jibia Day Community Secondary School). The remaining are Muna Sai’d Iqbal (Magamar Jibia Day Community School), and Asma’u Adamu (Magamar Jibia Day Community School).
The Katsina Debate Team has Dr. Isah Idris Zakari as Team Manager, Other team members include Coach Suleiman Umar, Matron Hauwa’u Mohd Kai-kai, and adjudicator Moh Salisu Higaf, These dedicated team provided guidance, support, and ensured the team’s well-being throughout their journey.
According to Governor Radda, “This achievement transcends a mere victory for the debate team; it represents a triumph for our entire education system. It serves as a powerful validation of our strategic focus on education and youth empowerment. We are unwavering in our commitment to creating more opportunities for our students to showcase their talents and compete on global platforms. This is merely the beginning of even greater accomplishments to come from Katsina State.”
The Katsina State Government reiterated its unwavering commitment to pursuit of educational excellence and looks forward to nurturing a new generation of world-class talents who will continue to bring honour to the state and the nation as a whole.
