The much-anticipated 6th edition of the Bashorun Askia Foundation (BAF) Schools Debate has officially kicked off, drawing participation from sixteen secondary schools across Delta State.
Widely regarded as one of the most impactful youth development initiatives in the state, the annual educational programme is solely sponsored by Isoko-born politician and businessman, Bashorun Askia Ogieh.
This year’s edition commenced on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the Edjeba premises of Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Warri, featuring exciting matchups and spirited debates in the opening rounds.
Early face-offs included the contest between Osubi Secondary School, Osubi, and Bedford Secondary School, Udu, as well as Pacia International Montessori School, Ekpan, against First Baptist School, Warri.
Other schools that took part in the preliminary rounds were: Army Day Secondary School, Effurun, Creative Demonstration School, Warri, DEEN Foundation School, Ekpan and Peace Schools.
Now in its sixth consecutive year, the BAF Schools Debate has established itself as a flagship initiative of Bashorun Askia Ogieh.
Through his personal sponsorship, the programme has remained a consistent platform for promoting academic excellence, intellectual engagement, and youth empowerment.
Over the years, the debate has become a launchpad for future leaders and scholars, producing students who have gone on to receive life-changing scholarships up to the university level.
In addition to these educational opportunities, participants and their schools have benefited from the distribution of learning materials and cash prizes worth millions of naira.
Bashorun Askia Ogieh, a former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), is well-known for his unwavering commitment to grassroots development and education.
Beyond his political and corporate accomplishments, his philanthropic drive continues to uplift the lives of the less privileged across Delta State through strategic, people-centered initiatives.
The BAF Schools Debate remains a testament to his enduring vision to empower communities and nurture the intellectual potential of young Deltans.
