Dore Numa College, International Unity School Win Maiden Ogiame Atuwatse III Inter - Collegiate Quiz, Debate competitions

Dore Numa College and International Unity School, both in Warri, have won the maiden Ogiame Atuwatse III Inter-Collegiate Quiz and Debate Competitions respectively, with each receiving a cash prize of N10 million. 

Our Senior Roving Correspondent, reports that the keenly contested grand finale was held today, Friday June 13 in Ogunu, Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State.     

The final, featured eight schools, shortlisted from a pool of 64 participants drawn from across the state.

Chief (Dr.)Wilson Oley, (1st left) presenting prizes to debate competition winners, Master Lawani Utienyi (SS3) and Miss Obiakor Chioma Scholastica (SSI) of Dore Numa College Warri

In the debate category, Dore Numa College triumphed over Delta Secondary School, while International Unity School defeated Word of Faith Secondary School to win the quiz contest.

The event, sponsored by His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, drew dignitaries including the monarch who was represented by Chief Dr. Wilson Oley.

Also in attendance was Chief Collins Edema, chairman of CORA Care Foundation and the sole representative of the Olu of Warri Liaison to NNPCL, who served as chief organiser of the competition was represented by Pastor Tuoyo Coker.

In his speech, Chief Oley encouraged the students to pursue their studies with diligence and aim high. He defined education as the process of receiving and giving systematic instruction — not just at school, but at home and in soc

iety. 

A representative of Ruth Care Foundation, Mrs. Coker ( left) presenting award to Miss Oritsetimeyin Ofesi, in recognition of her outstanding performance during the competition

“What we’re doing today is shaping your future. Without education, you can’t go anywhere. That’s something I want you to take home with you today — it’s not just about the money; you may win today, but what about your future?

“Set up a goal for yourself and work toward it. This is the only way you can become somebody of vital importance in society. I want to share something I will never forget — a quote my father always gave us, his children: ‘Those that read will continue to live, and those that refuse to read will become slaves to their peers.’”

He further urged the student not to indulge in unlawful activities stating “When we commenced this program, I said education is not a scam — a notion many people want to believe today. Do not join the 419 (scamming) lifestyles. You will get nothing out of it. The only way you can succeed is through education

Chief Collins Edema represented by the secretary of CORA Care Foundation Pastor Tuoyo Coker stressed the collective role that community, church, and government should play in a child’s training.

He said “Training up a child should not be left entirely on the shoulders of the parents alone. We all have a role to play. Often, we neglect the children, and whether we realize it or not, that neglect is a form of training. The result we see today — a growing number of social problems — is a reflection of that neglect. We must do better. 

He commended His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, for bringing together students from 64 schools, thereby fostering their passion for education and inspiring them to pursue academic excellence.

Responding, winners of the debate competition, Master Lawani Utienyi (SS3) and Miss Obiakor Chioma Scholastica, expressed their appreciation to His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III for sponsoring the event, as well as to their schoolteachers, whose guidance and support helped them perform at their best.

Also reacting to their success, winners of the quiz competition, Master Bright Duru (SS2) and Master Great Mbanasor (SS2), extended their heartfelt thanks to the organizers, stating: “To the organizers, we say a big thank you; may God abundantly bless you for your efforts. We appreciate every single person who played a crucial role in making this event a reality, and we are truly delighted with the outcome.”

They further encouraged those who fell short this time not to lose heart, adding: “To those who did not make it to this stage, keep trying and trust in God, for He is the ultimate answer to prayers. Whatever you do, just ask Him — He will surely respond.”

Speaking on behalf staff of the competing schools, Mr. Samson Emokiniovo Egheneji, principal of Dore Numa College commended the Olu of Warri for organizing the competition, describing it as an opportunity to discover and celebrate talent in schools.

He explained that through this competition, many hidden talents have come to light, for instance, Dore Numa College in Warri, which is often overlooked in conversations of high-achieving schools, has been able to demonstrate its potentials.

“With this competition, the world can see that Dore Numa College is a great school. I believe this is a wonderful initiative will go a long way toward encouraging students to work hard. What we are seeing today is a product of hard work and teamwork.”

Dore Numa College secured the top spot in the debate competition, taking home a cash prize of N10 million, while Delta Secondary School came in second with N2 million. Ugbokodo Secondary School placed third, earning N1 million, and Rise Secondary School finished fourth with N500,000.

In the quiz competition, International Unity School emerged as champions, pocketing N10 million, while Word of Faith Schools secured the second spot with N2 million. Bench Hill Schools came in third with N1 million, and Our Saviour School followed in fourth place with N500,000.

The highlight of the event came when Miss Oritsetimeyin Ofesi of Rise International School was presented with a cash prize of N2 million by Ruth Gender Foundation in recognition of her outstanding performance as the best female participant.

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