Lagoon School, Lekki has emerged as the winner of the 2024 Eloquence Cup, Nigeria’s foremost public speaking competition for secondary schools, hosted by the School of Eloquence.
Held at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos, on November 2, 2024, the 6th annual edition showcased remarkable young talent from nine top secondary schools in Lagos State, all competing under the theme, “The Role of Technology and Social Media in Nigeria’s Educational System.”
This flagship event, part of the School of Eloquence’s Catching Them Young initiative, is a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme spearheaded by Mr. Ubong Essien, West Africa’s only Certified Speaking Professional (CSP).
Through this initiative, the School of Eloquence teaches secondary school students the foundational principles of effective public speaking, nurturing future leaders with communication skills that transform lives and empower communities.
Each school was represented by two students, who impressed judges with their eloquence, creativity, and mastery of the theme.
Distinguished attendees included Mr. Bayo Osibo, Chairman of the School of Eloquence’s governing board, and Mrs. Patience Essien, Registrar of the School.
The event also welcomed alums and professionals from various fields, adding to the spirit of mentorship and community that the Eloquence Cup embodies.
Participating schools such as Kings College, Queens College, CMS Grammar School, Lagoon School, Government Senior College Maroko, Dairy Farm Senior School, Ilasan Senior Secondary School Lekki, Gbara Community Senior Secondary School, Lekki, and Government Senior College Ikoyi competed in several rounds, showcasing exceptional talent and passion.
Lagoon School, Lekki, emerged as the overall winner, with Kings College and Dairy Farm Secondary School Agege securing a joint second place.
In the individual category, Ezennaya Derek of Kings College took the first prize of ₦150,000, Opeoluwa Adeosan of Lagoon College Lekki earned ₦100,000 for second place, and Jasmine Chris of Dairy Farm Secondary School Agege won third place with ₦75,000.
Teachers were also honoured for their critical roles in preparing these young talents, each receiving cash reward in recognition of their dedication.
The Dean of the School, Ubong Essien, CSP, expressed his enthusiasm for the programme, stating, “The Eloquence Cup is more than a competition; it’s a movement to empower the leaders of tomorrow. Public speaking is a transformative skill, and through this platform, we are preparing young Nigerians to inspire and lead with confidence.”
The School of Eloquence also thanked participants, parents, and supporters for making the event a resounding success.
With plans to expand mentorship and inspire more young voices, the School says it looks forward to next year’s Eloquence Cup with great anticipation.
The School of Eloquence, founded by Ubong Essien, West Africa’s only Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), is dedicated to empowering individuals through the art of public speaking, cultivating skills that build confidence, inspire leadership, and foster community.
