UNILORIN Debaters Rank Among Nigeria's Best, Clinch First Runner-Up Position

The University of Ilorin has secured the position of First Runner-Up at the 2026 National Universities Commission (NUC) Debate Championship, a national competition that attracted participation from more than 70 universities across Nigeria.

Honorable Updates gathered that the championship, organised by the National Universities Commission in partnership with Royal Rhetorics, was held virtually between March 27 and May 15, 2026.

UNILORIN was represented by two teams comprising four students. Team A consisted of Muideen Popoola and Alexander Tivlumun, both 400-level Information Technology students, while Team B featured Olowookere Ganiyat, a 500-level Law student, and Anjorin Teminijesu, a 400-level Life Sciences student.

Both teams advanced from the preliminary rounds after impressive performances. However, in line with the competition's regulations, which permitted only one team from each institution to proceed to the elimination stage, Team A advanced to represent the University after achieving a higher ranking position.

The University team progressed through the quarter-final and semi-final stages before emerging as the First Runner-Up at the grand finale held on May 15, 2026.

Beyond the team's success, the University's representatives delivered exceptional individual performances, with all four students earning places among the Top 10 speakers in the country.

Muideen Popoola emerged as the 2nd Best Speaker nationally, while Olowookere Ganiyat was ranked 3rd Best Speaker. Alexander Tivlumun secured the 5th position, while Anjorin Teminijesu finished as the 9th Best Speaker in the championship.

The achievement highlights the University's continued commitment to academic excellence, critical thinking, leadership development, and intellectual engagement.

Honorable Updates reports that the University of Ilorin Quiz, Debate and Innovation Committee, led by Oluyinka Iyiola, was also commended for its role in preparing the students and contributing to another remarkable achievement for the institution.