The announcement was made in a statement on Friday by Isa Sanusi, the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria. The first runner-up in the competition was Odebala Odemena of Baze University, Abuja, while Alexander Boroh of the University of Benin secured the second runner-up position.
This year's edition, themed "Empowering Voices, Inspiring Change," brought together a diverse group of students from all six geopolitical zones of the country. Marking the third annual iteration of the debate, the initiative aims to foster critical engagement and discourse on pressing human rights issues among university students.
Sanusi commended the exceptional quality of arguments presented by the participants and noted the increased participation from tertiary institutions nationwide, underscoring the growing impact and reach of the debate. "As a global human rights organisation, Amnesty International is committed to empowering young people to shape the discourse around justice, accountability, and human dignity,” Sanusi stated, emphasizing the pivotal role of youth in dismantling oppressive systems. He further highlighted public speaking and advocacy as powerful tools for building a just society, adding, “Ending the culture of silence begins with the youth understanding they have a right to speak — and to be heard.”
The debate featured structured rounds where participants passionately challenged oppressive norms and championed fundamental human rights, including dignity, justice, and protection. Universities that participated in this year's competition included: Landmark University, University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ibadan, University of Port Harcourt, University of Benin, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Usman Dan Fodio University Sokoto, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Modibbo Adama University of Technology Yola, Gombe State University, University of Maiduguri, Baze University, and Benue State University Makurdi. The event successfully served as a platform for future leaders to hone their advocacy skills and deepen their understanding of human rights principles.