On 1 October 2026, Nigeria’s Independence Day, secondary school students across Akure, Ondo State, gathered for the inaugural ThinkNation Debate Cup 2026, an educational initiative that brought together young people to demonstrate critical thinking, research, public speaking and respectful engagement with opposing views.
Earth Peace Action (EPAc), operating as the public-facing brand of TalentEdge Youth Empowerment Organization, played a significant role in the planning, coordination and execution of the event. Through its involvement, EPAc contributed to delivering a platform where students could develop their intellectual abilities, communicate confidently and engage constructively with different perspectives.
Conceived by Arc. Aminat O. Ajenifujah-Abubakar, PhD, the ThinkNation Initiative seeks to strengthen critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and confident communication among young people. The inaugural debate cup marked an important step towards establishing the competition as an annual platform for educational development.
Students Demonstrate Intellectual Excellence
Four schools advanced to the final round: Comfort Tenderfeet College, Fiwasaye Girls’ Grammar School, Oyemekun Grammar School and Seat of Wisdom Catholic College. Students from Omotayo Grammar School, Estate High School, Muslim Unity School, Advance Peace College, St. Louis’ Grammar School, Ire-Akari Model Academy, Dohlase Academy and FUTA also attended, contributing to the atmosphere of learning and healthy competition.
Participants were assessed on subject knowledge, research, argument development, rebuttal, communication and respectful engagement. The competition recognised outstanding performances through Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals for the first three positions, alongside certificates and special awards for oratory, rebuttal and emerging debating talent.
The judging panel included representatives of the National Library of Nigeria and Dr Oluwatoyin Obateru of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, who participated virtually.
Beyond Debate: Sustainability Education
The event also incorporated sustainability education through sessions on Zero Food Waste and the Save Energy Project. These sessions encouraged students to consider the environmental and social implications of food waste and energy consumption and explore practical solutions within their homes, schools and communities. Student performances added a creative dimension to the programme.
Collaboration for Lasting Educational Impact
The inaugural edition was delivered in collaboration with the ARAAT Ajenifujah Foundation, Helm Consult Ltd and TalentEdge Youth Empowerment Organization, operating publicly as Earth Peace Action. Chillers, a subsidiary of Bakies Resources Ltd, and Freshprince INC. sponsored the programme.
EPAc’s involvement reflects its commitment to supporting educational initiatives that equip young people with practical skills, confidence and opportunities to participate meaningfully in society. The organisation recognises that programmes of this nature require careful planning, effective coordination and collaboration among partners to translate an idea into a successful learning experience.
Beyond the debate competition, the wider ThinkNation Initiative has a long-term ambition to establish digital libraries across Nigeria, beginning with Ondo State, to expand access to knowledge, educational resources and independent learning through technology.
With plans for the ThinkNation Debate Cup to become an annual event, EPAc remains committed to collaborative efforts that strengthen education, youth development and sustainable community impact.
People, Planet, Purpose: Together for Humanity.