The Federation of Ogbagi Students Union (FOSU) has concluded the maiden edition of the Alhaji L. O. Apalowo Inter-Tertiary Debate Competition, organised in honour of the late Alhaji L. O. Apalowo, a respected community leader noted for his integrity, selfless service and commitment to development.
The debate competition, held under the leadership of the FOSU President, Comrade Abu Sherif Gbenga, attracted students from various tertiary institutions and was described as intellectually engaging and keenly contested.
The event was sponsored by Ultimate Semiu Apalowo and represented by Honourable Thalis Apalowo. Each participating institution was represented by two debaters who engaged in rigorous exchanges on topical social and national issues.
At the end of the competition, Bada Jamiu of the Federal University, Oye, emerged winner. The second position was jointly won by Oke Precious Iyanuoluwa and Adenola Adesola Ruth, both of the Federal University, Lokoja, while Kolawole Adefemi Success and Oluwatowo Samuel Aturu of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, shared the third position.
The award presentation ceremony, which took place yesterday at the FOSU Secretariat, was conducted by Honourable Thalis Apalowo on behalf of the sponsor.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Apalowo said the debate competition was designed to immortalise the ideals and values of the late Alhaji L. O. Apalowo.
“This debate competition reflects the values our late father stood for — knowledge, discipline, and purposeful leadership. Supporting students intellectually is one of the most effective ways to keep his legacy alive,” he stated.
In his remarks, the FOSU President, Comrade Abu Sherif Gbenga, expressed appreciation to the sponsor and his representative, describing the competition as a significant contribution to student intellectual development.
“The Alhaji L. O. Apalowo Debate Competition is a powerful platform for sharpening the minds of our students. We are deeply grateful to Ultimate Semiu Apalowo and Honourable Thalis Apalowo for making this maiden edition a success,” he said.
The organisers said the competition is expected to become an annual programme aimed at promoting articulate communication, leadership skills, research culture and confidence among students.
FOSU also offered prayers for the repose of the soul of the late Alhaji L. O. Apalowo and prayed for continued strength and grace for Ultimate Semiu Apalowo and Honourable Thalis Apalowo to sustain their contributions to youth development and the wider society.
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