The 2025 edition of The Young Orators National Public Speaking Competition has been hailed as a resounding success, once again spotlighting Nigeria’s brightest young voices in the historic city of Ibadan.
Despite the absence of corporate sponsorship this year, organizers say the event surpassed expectations, thanks to sheer passion, personal investment, and a deep belief in the transformative power of youth.
“This year, we had no corporate backing—not for lack of merit, but because time ran faster than our asks. But we pushed forward, fueled by conviction,” said the competition’s convener.
Fifteen promising young orators from across Nigeria converged in Ibadan for a week-long boot camp filled with training, mentorship, and intensive preparation. The grand finale, held on April 5, 2025, saw Israel Olamiposi Bolarinwa, an 18-year-old 100-level student at the University of Ibadan, Faculty of Education, emerge as National Champion. Israel will go on to represent Nigeria at the prestigious International Public Speaking Competition (IPSC) in London.
The programme’s National Coach, Oluwaseun Dawodu, was commended for his hands-on mentorship and dedication, which elevated the experience for all participants.
A notable innovation in this year’s edition was the introduction of a cohort identity. Participants of this edition will now be known as The 2025 Cohort—a move designed to foster long-term connection and alumni engagement among young leaders, change-makers, and even a few emerging comedians, according to the organizers.
To document the journey and further amplify the competition’s impact, a television series was filmed during the camp, capturing both on-stage brilliance and behind-the-scenes moments. Organizers say the series will serve as a storytelling asset to inspire wider youth participation and attract future sponsors.
Special appreciation was extended to Learn Africa Plc, the official dictionary sponsor, and the Oyo State Government, especially the Chairman of the Oyo State Youth Development Agency, for their support and hospitality.
“This is more than a competition—it’s a movement. And we are calling on individuals, organizations, and institutions who believe in youth, education, and nation-building to partner with us as we scale,” the convener said.
As the curtain falls on this year’s edition, one message rings clear: the fire has been lit, and Nigeria’s next generation of orators is ready to speak the future into being.
