Annual Inter-School Debate — Seylom Takes the Trophy Home

In what has been described as one of the most competitive editions in recent years, Seylom International School's Debate Team emerged victorious at the 2025 Rivers State Inter-School Debate Championship, held at Government Secondary School, Port Harcourt.

Representing our school were two teams — one from the junior category (JSS 1–3) and one from the senior category (SS 1–3) — both of which advanced through all rounds to claim their respective division trophies.

The Motion

The senior final debated the motion: "This House Believes That Social Media Has Done More Harm Than Good to Nigerian Youth." Our team, arguing in favour of the motion, delivered a comprehensive, evidence-based case that left the adjudicators impressed.

Star Performers

• Chinyere Obi (SS 2) — won the Best Speaker award in the senior category, praised for her poise, articulation, and use of statistics
• Damilola Fashola (JSS 3) — the youngest finalist, delivered a stunning rebuttal that stunned the audience
• Ibrahim Al-Hassan (SS 3) — recognised for his exceptional cross-examination technique

The Journey to Finals

Our teams competed in five rounds across two days, defeating rivals from 24 other schools from across Rivers State. The debate coach, Mrs. Blessing Nwosu, spent eight weeks running daily practice sessions after school.

"Debate is not just about winning arguments," she said. "It is about learning to think clearly, speak confidently, and listen carefully. Our students mastered all three."

What's Next

As Rivers State champions, Seylom will now represent the state at the National Schools Debate Championship in Lagos in April. The school is already fundraising for the trip and welcomes support from parents and alumni.

We are incredibly proud of our debaters. Keep flying the Seylom flag!