By Innocent Orok
Nigeria’s premier Public Speaking Face-off competition to inspire Secondary School Students organized by School of Eloquence took place in
Lagos, Nigeria November 2, 2024 at the Oriental hotel.
The event saw Lagoon School, Lekki, proudly emerging as the winner of the 2024 Eloquence Cup, Nigerias foremost public speaking competition for secondary schools, hosted by the School of Eloquence.
The competition which was its 6th annual edition showcased remarkable young talents from nine top secondary schools in Lagos State, all competing under the theme, “The Role of Technology and Social Media in Nigeria’s Educational System.”
The flagship event is part of the School of Eloquence’s Catching Them Young initiative, is a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme spearheaded by Mr Ubong Essien, West Africa’s only Certified Speaking Professional (CSP).
Through, this initiative, the School of Eloquence teaches Secondary school students the foundational principles of effective public speaking, nurturing future leaders with communication skills that transform lives and empower communities. Each school was represented by two students, who impressed judges with their eloquence, creativity, and mastery of the theme.
The attendees at the event include Mr Bayo Osibo, Chairman of the School of Eloquence Governing Board, and Mrs Patience Essien, Registrar of the School. The event also welcomed alums and professionals from various fields, adding to the spirit of mentorship and community that the Eloquence Cup embodies.
Participating schools were Kings College, Queens College, CMS Grammar School, Lagoon School, Government Senior College Maroko, Dairy Farm Senior School, Ilasan Senior Secondary School Lekki, Gbara Community Senior Secondary School, Lekki, and Government Senior College Ikoyi competed in several rounds, showcasing exceptional talent and passion.
Lagoon School, Lekki, emerged as the overall winner, with Kings College and Dairy Farm Secondary School Agege securing a joint second place.
In the individuals category, Ezennaya Derek of Kings College took the first prize of ₦150,000, Opeoluwa Adeosan of Lagoon College, Lekki earned ₦100,000 for second place, and Jasmine Chris of Dairy Farm Secondary School Agege won third place with ₦75,000.
Teachers were also honored for their critical roles in preparing the young talents, each receiving cash reward in recognition of their dedication.
The Dean of the School, Mr Ubong Essien, CSP, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating, “The Eloquence Cup is more than a competition; its a movement to empower the leaders of tomorrow.
“Public speaking is a transformative skill, and through this platform, we are preparing young Nigerians to inspire and lead with confidence.
“The School of Eloquence extends heartfelt gratitude to all participants, parents, and supporters for making this event a resounding success. With plans to expand mentorship and inspire more young voices, the School looks forward to next years Eloquence Cup with great anticipation.” Essien assured.
For more information Contact:
Amarachi Mbanuzu
School of Eloquence
Email: office@schoolofeloquence.org
Phone: +234 906 781 5830
Website: www.schoolofeloquence.org
