I saw the story about Odyssey being uploaded on here and watched by millions of people for free.
And beyond the controversy, it made me think about something we usually forget.
Someone can spend years building something. Then, in a matter of hours, someone else can find a way to exploit a weakness around it.
That’s true for movies. It’s true for businesses and it’s true for careers.
The lesson? I explained it in the video below.
After 12 weeks of intense competition, I presented cash prizes to the talented debaters of the 042 Coal City Debate during the weekend. The Secretary to the State Government, Prof Chidiebere Onyia @Onyia1 presented the prizes on my behalf.
Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) emerged as the grand winner, receiving N15 million, with N5 million awarded to the runner-up, the Institute of Management and Technology (INT), Enugu, while the University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC) came third.
This debate, tagged “Debate Cool-it,” was designed to nurture critical thinking, creativity, and leadership among our young people. Our administration is committed to building a culture of innovation, and this tournament is only the beginning. We aim to extend this spirit of intellectual challenge and growth from universities down to our Smart Green Schools, helping to build resilient, globally competitive youths in our state.
The students addressed pressing societal issues such as climate change, governance, human rights, gender inequality, femimism, abortion, cybercrime and cybersecurity, and more. They learned to engage in respectful, constructive dialogue on complex societal topics. The participants have set a high standard, and their performances reaffirmed my belief in Enugu’s bright future.
Congratulations to all the participants for their remarkable dedication. May they carry forward the lessons learned from this exercise and serve as exemplary models for others. We’ll continue investing in these young leaders who are the foundation of the society we envision for Enugu and Nigeria.
I cannot forget to thank my Senior Special Assistant on Social Culture and Self-Development, Mrs. Dera Okenwa @deradebates, whose dedication and vision made the 042 Coal City Debate a reality. Her commitment to fostering open dialogue and intellectual growth among our youths has been instrumental in creating a platform where young minds can freely discuss critical issues that impact our society.
Tomorrow is here!
Team Legion representing ESUMSA in the debate cool it competition sponsored by the enugu state government.
ESUMSA (team legion) won the competition 🔥🔥🔥🔥
We won 😎