A student of the University of Ibadan, Goodluck Akinlawon, has emerged the overall winner of the 2025 Amnesty International Nigeria Inter-Varsity Debate, beating contestants from 15 other universities across the country.
The debate, themed “Empowering Voices, Inspiring Change,” was held as part of Amnesty International’s efforts to foster youth engagement in human rights advocacy. The grand finale saw Akinlawon outshine Odebala Odemena of Baze University, Abuja, who finished as first runner-up, and Alexander Boroh of the University of Benin, who secured the second runner-up position.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, praised the intellectual depth and passionate advocacy demonstrated by all participants. He noted that the competition, now in its third year, continues to expand in reach and impact across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
“This debate is a platform for young Nigerians to challenge oppressive systems and champion human rights,” Sanusi said. “It reflects our commitment to nurturing the next generation of voices in the fight for justice, accountability, and human dignity.”
The event featured structured debate rounds focused on critical human rights issues, with participants advocating for dignity, justice, and the protection of freedoms. Sanusi emphasised that empowering youth to speak up is key to ending the culture of silence in society.
“Public speaking and advocacy are powerful tools in building a just society. It starts with youth recognising they have a right to speak — and be heard,” he said.
Participating institutions included top universities such as the University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Port Harcourt, Ahmadu Bello University, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, and several others across Nigeria.
The annual debate, a flagship initiative of Amnesty International Nigeria, seeks to cultivate critical thinking and active citizenship among students in higher institutions, equipping them with the tools to influence positive change in their communities.
