The Federation of Ogbagi Students Union (FOSU) has successfully concluded the maiden edition of the Alhaji L. O. Apalowo Inter-Tertiary Debate Competition, held in honour of the late Alhaji L. O. Apalowo, a revered community leader remembered for his integrity, service and commitment to development. The competition was organized under the leadership of FOSU President, Comrade Abu Sherif Gbenga.
The intellectually stimulating debate programme was proudly sponsored by Ultimate Semiu Apalowo and represented at the event by Honourable Thalis Apalowo. The competition brought together students from different tertiary institutions, with each school represented by two debaters.
After rigorous debate sessions on contemporary social and national issues, winners emerged as follows:
• 1st place: Bada Jamiu — Federal University Oye
• 2nd place (tie):
• Oke Precious Iyanuoluwa — Federal University Lokoja
• Adenola Adesola Ruth — Federal University Lokoja
• 3rd place (tie):
• Kolawole Adefemi Success — Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo
• Oluwatowo Samuel Aturu — Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo
The award presentation ceremony, held yesterday at the FOSU Secretariat, was conducted by Honourable Thalis Apalowo on behalf of the sponsor.
Speaking during the presentation, Hon. Thalis Apalowo said the competition was a fitting tribute to the late Alhaji L. O. Apalowo.
“This debate competition reflects the values our late father stood for knowledge, discipline, and purposeful leadership. Supporting students intellectually is one of the most effective ways to keep his legacy alive,” he stated.
FOSU President, Comrade Abu Sherif Gbenga, expressed profound appreciation to the sponsor and his representative, noting that the competition has set a new standard for student intellectual engagement in the community.
“The Alhaji L. O. Apalowo Debate Competition is a powerful platform for sharpening the minds of our students. We are deeply grateful to Ultimate Semiu Apalowo and Honourable Thalis Apalowo for making this maiden edition a success,” he said.
The competition is expected to become an annual event aimed at promoting articulate communication, leadership, research culture and confidence among students. FOSU also offered prayers for the repose of the soul of Alhaji L. O. Apalowo, while asking God to continue to bless Ultimate Semiu Apalowo and Honourable Thalis Apalowo with greater strength and opportunities to contribute to youth development and society at large.