Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, has emerged as the South-West champion of the 7 for 7 National Values Charter Campus Debate.
PUNCH Online reports that the debate and capacity-building conference, tagged Join the Value Train to Campus, was organised by the National Orientation Agency to ignite a passion for national values among Nigeria’s brightest minds.
The event is part of a national identity project championed by NOA’s Director General, Lanre Issa-Onilu.
In a statement sent to PUNCH Online on Sunday, NOA spokesperson Paul Odenyi stated that LAUTECH emerged victorious by defeating the University of Ibadan at an event held at Julius Berger Hall, University of Lagos, on Friday.
He said, “Adekunle Ayomide and Oladeji Olushina represented LAUTECH, while Oyedijo Olarenwaju and Chineke Ugochukwu represented UI.
“The debate topic, ‘7 for 7 National Values Charter: Striking the Balance Between Government Promises and Citizens’ Responsibilities in Nation-Building’, challenged the participants to examine the relationship between governance and civic duties.
“The debate was intense, with arguments flowing like a duel of wits. Ayomide’s calm yet authoritative voice laid out LAUTECH’s vision of accountability, while Olushina’s compelling examples painted a picture of shared responsibility.
“Their opponents from UI were no less formidable, weaving in historical insights and pragmatic solutions.
“After deliberation, the judges declared LAUTECH the South-West Zone champion. Cheers erupted as the duo stepped forward to receive their prize: a ₦5m cheque and a ticket to the grand finale, where they will compete for the ultimate prize of ₦20m.”
Beyond the debate, Odeniyi stated that the event also included a capacity-building conference led by distinguished facilitators.
“Oluseye Taiwo Adepoju, known as The Oracle, shared insights on leadership and personal development, drawing from his experience as a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and entrepreneur.
“Dr Leonard Okonkwo, a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, captivated the audience with his analysis of human behaviour and its impact on societal progress, inspiring attendees to take charge of their mental and emotional well-being,” Odenyi added.
The programme coordinator, Tolu Meduna, highlighted the essence of the event, stating, “Our mission is to nurture Citizen Values Brigadiers—young leaders who embody unity, accountability, and resilience. This is the foundation for building a stronger Nigeria.”
She explained that the Value Train to Campus will visit six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, where zonal winners would compete at the national grand finale.
Tolu also noted that in October 2024, government tertiary institutions were invited to submit a 3–5-minute video debating the topic, 7 for 7 National Values Charter: Striking a Balance Between Government Promises and Citizens’ Responsibilities in Nation-Building.
She concluded, “The significance of the 7 for 7 National Values Charter resonated deeply with participants. It was more than a debate or a conference; it was a call to action—a movement to inspire unity, responsibility, and growth across the nation.”
Participants received a Citizens Values Brigade certificate for participating in the conference.
Dignitaries at the event included the Lagos State Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Fatai; the Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Youth Mobilisation, Opeyemi Alabi; and the Founder/CRO of Shape A Child Initiative, Izehi Semira.
