society
Ghana, UNILAG lock horns at Inter-University Africa debate debut at disruptED Summit
Ghana, UNILAG lock horns at Inter-University Africa debate debut at disruptED Summit
By Ifeoma Ikem
Students from the University of Ghana and the University of Lagos went head-to-head in a thrilling intellectual contest at the inaugural Inter-University Africa Debate, a flagship event of the disruptED Summit, held at the University of Lagos Auditorium on Thursday. The debate, which drew over 300 students and volunteers, aimed to amplify youth voices in shaping Africa’s economic and policy discourse.
After eight intense rounds of argument, rebuttal, and audience engagement, the University of Ghana emerged victorious, demonstrating depth of research, clarity of argument, and persuasive skill. Judges described the contest as one of the most intellectually rigorous student exchanges they had witnessed. Team Ghana took home a cash prize of N500,000, while Nigeria’s team received N300,000. The Best Debater of the event was also rewarded with N150,000 for outstanding performance.
Luke Wales, Director of Global Relations and Education at the University of Birmingham, representing Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Tickell, said:
“The intellectual standard of this debate was extraordinary. After each round, the judging panel found ourselves reconsidering our positions. The students demonstrated not just preparation, but genuine persuasive skill and analytical depth. It was a powerful reminder of the talent and intellectual energy present in African universities.”
Moderated by Tosin Adebisi, founder of the Programme for African Leadership (PfAL) at the London School of Economics, the debate invited students to confront complex global frameworks such as the Washington and Beijing Consensus, fostering participatory learning rather than passive spectatorship.
Tosin Adebisi emphasized the transformative purpose of the exercise:
“This debate is about more than winning arguments. It’s about training a generation of young Africans to think critically about the systems they are entering and the futures they are building. When students research global economic frameworks in real time and challenge each other at this level, you see confidence forming. You see agency. That’s the foundation of leadership.”
The event also highlighted homegrown innovation. Students from UNILAG presented two major projects: Project Green Dream, aimed at reducing Nigeria’s annual tomato waste of 32 billion kilograms by converting them into flakes for year-round availability, and NAPTCHA, an environmental solution targeting pollution in coastal cities to protect aquatic life, generate jobs, and boost the economy.
“Today, we present to you two of our projects, Green Dream and NAPTCHA. Environmental pollution is a rapidly growing challenge globally, most especially in coastal areas. Our innovative solutions tackle waste accumulation while generating energy and nutrients for communities,” the UNILAG students said.
Judged by Oluwatobi Oseni, Muhammad Abduliahi, Chibuike Echechi, Alfred Ashopa, and Prof. Olufemi Olayemi, the competition underscored the growing importance of youth-led, policy-focused debates on the continent. Organizers intend for the debate to evolve into a national and continental series, fostering leadership, critical thinking, and visibility of youth perspectives in policy decision-making.
An attendee captured the sentiment of many:
“This is the first time I’ve seen students treated as participants in policy, not just observers.”
The disruptED Summit, which brought together educators, tech experts, and policymakers, continues to position students at the centre of discussions on Africa’s education, skills gaps, and future-of-work innovations, reinforcing the critical role of youth in shaping the continent’s policy and development trajectory.
society
Discipleship: “Walk with the Wise and You Will Become Wise” — Dr Chris Okafor
Discipleship: “Walk with the Wise and You Will Become Wise”
— Dr Chris Okafor
…Evil communication corrupts good character
…The Holy Spirit is the seal of redemption
True Christian living, beyond winning souls, requires nurturing and sustaining new converts in the faith. This was the central message delivered by the Generational Prophet and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Global, Dr Chris Okafor, during a teaching on “Understanding the Act of Discipleship.”
According to him, soul winning without proper establishment and follow-up defeats its purpose. “The goal is not just conversion but fruitfulness and continuity in Christ,” he emphasized, noting that believers must also understand the conditions that make prayers effective.
The Necessity of Discipleship
Dr Okafor outlined why discipleship is essential in the Christian journey:
New converts require guidance to withstand temptations that could pull them back into their former ways.
They must gradually disconnect from relationships and habits that previously weakened their faith.
Support systems should be in place to help them navigate personal and spiritual challenges.
Consistent follow-up, rooted in love and care, helps prevent discouragement and negative perceptions.
Proper integration into the body of Christ strengthens their sense of belonging and commitment.
Understanding Discipleship
He described discipleship as a deliberate process of helping believers grow in Christ and align with godly principles rather than worldly influences. It involves:
Guiding converts until Christ is fully formed in them.
Transmitting biblical values that strengthen their faith and daily conduct.
Practical Approach to Discipleship
The cleric highlighted key methods for effective discipleship:
Fervent prayer for the spiritual stability of new believers.
Demonstrating genuine love and consistent care.
Regular follow-up visits and visible engagement.
Encouraging early infilling of the Holy Spirit.
Teaching habits that sustain spiritual growth.
Habits That Strengthen Faith
To remain grounded, believers were encouraged to cultivate:
Daily study of the Word of God
Consistent prayer and fellowship with God
Active participation in church gatherings
Bold expression of their faith
A conscious rejection of unrighteousness
Deep-rooted commitment to the house of God
A Foundation for Growth
In conclusion, Dr Chris Okafor stressed that discipleship thrives when believers are rooted in sound spiritual guidance. “When you walk with the wise, you become wise,” he said, adding that strong spiritual formation protects individuals from negative influences and preserves godly character.
The Grace Nation Global Sunday Communion Service, observed by members worldwide, featured testimonies, healing sessions, deliverance, and a special child dedication, rounding off the service on a note of faith and celebration.
By Sunday Adeyemi
[email protected]
society
APC’s Misrepresentation of Makinde’s Remarks: A Disturbing Display of Intellectual Dishonesty* -Olufemi Aduwo
*APC’s Misrepresentation of Makinde’s Remarks: A Disturbing Display of Intellectual Dishonesty* -Olufemi Aduwo
The attention of right-thinking Nigerians has been drawn to the misguided and politically contrived statement issued by the All Progressives Congress (APC), in which it accused Governor Seyi Makinde of incitement over his reference to “Operation Wetie”. Let it be stated without equivocation, the APC’s reaction is not only a gross distortion of context but also a troubling exhibition of either wilful ignorance or a fundamental inability to comprehend even the most elementary use of historical analogy. One is left to wonder whether those who crafted that statement possess even a kindergarten grasp of the English language, let alone the intellectual depth required for serious political discourse.
Governor Makinde’s remarks were clearly cautionary and not incendiary. His reference to “Operation Wetie” was an invocation of history, nothing more and nothing less. It was a sober reminder of the catastrophic consequences that follow when democratic processes are subverted, dissent is stifled and political arrogance is allowed to fester unchecked.To interpret such a warning as a call to violence is either intellectually dishonest or deliberately mischievous.
By attempting to criminalise a legitimate historical reference, the APC exposes a deeper anxiety, an unease with truth and a discomfort with reminders of what unchecked political excess can produce. The tragedy of the Western Region crisis is not a subject to be buried under partisan convenience, it is a lesson to be studied, understood and heeded.
It is both ironic and alarming that a party which claims to defend democracy would seek to undermine historical consciousness. Such conduct betrays a troubling tendency towards authoritarian thinking, where even words of caution are twisted into offences and dissenting voices are vilified rather than engaged.
The statement by Felix Morka, in particular, collapses under the weight of its own exaggeration. To leap from a historical reference to claims of “anarchy” and “murderous rage” is not only illogical but borders on the absurd. It is political theatre of the lowest quality. Furthermore, the attempt to cloak this mischaracterisation in the language of “national security” is both reckless and disingenuous. National security is far too important to be reduced to a tool for partisan intimidation.
The APC would do well to engage in introspection rather than projection. This pattern of deliberate misrepresentation and inflammatory overreach poses a greater risk to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Nigeria deserves a political culture rooted in honesty, maturity and intellectual rigour not one diminished by propaganda, distortion and opportunism. In the final analysis, the issue is simple, those who cannot understand history are often the first to misinterpret it and unfortunately, the most likely to repeat its errors.
-Olufemi Aduwo is a
Permanent Representative of CCDI to the ECOSOC/United Nations.
NB: Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity, is a non-profit organisation with Consultative Status of United Nations
society
Prophet Oladele Ogundipe Genesis Hosts Jehoshaphat Night 2026 : A Powerful Night of Praise, Power, And Prophetic Encounter in Lagos
Prophet Oladele Ogundipe Genesis Hosts Jehoshaphat Night 2026 : A Powerful Night of Praise, Power, And Prophetic Encounter in Lagos
Genesis Global Isheri is set to host an extraordinary spiritual gathering tagged PPP, Praise, Power & Prophetic Night, themed Jehoshaphat Night, on May 1st, 2026, from 8PM till dawn. This highly anticipated event will take place at Genesis Bus Stop, LASU–Igando Road, Isheri Idimu, Lagos, bringing together worshippers, believers, and seekers from across the city for a night of intense spiritual upliftment. With a vibrant atmosphere already expected, the event promises a unique blend of deep worship, prophetic ministrations, and life-transforming encounters.
The night will be led by Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, the host and founder of Genesis Global, known for his dynamic prophetic ministry and impactful teachings. Attendees can also look forward to powerful ministrations from guest ministers Minister Dare Oxygen and Mista Olamilekan, who are set to usher in an atmosphere of heartfelt praise and spiritual revival. The theme “Jehoshaphat Night” draws inspiration from the biblical account of King Jehoshaphat, where praise became a weapon for victory setting the tone for a night centered on breakthrough, faith, and divine intervention.
Beyond just a gathering, Jehoshaphat Night is positioned as a transformative experience where attendees can expect spiritual renewal, prophetic direction, and a deeper connection with God through music and the Word. With a carefully curated lineup and a strong spiritual focus, this all night event aims to ignite faith and inspire testimonies. Whether you’re seeking clarity, breakthrough, or simply a powerful worship experience, this is a night not to be missed in Lagos. Make it an event.
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