The Debate · 4th edition
The Dacurate Secondary School Leadership Debate
Where Lagos's brightest students step up to lead. Our flagship programme gives students a stage to show intellectual leadership and the innovation skills tomorrow's world will demand.
Next up · in 2 days
Debate 2026: Leadership and Innovation
Twelve finalist schools were announced on 27 October. Free to attend, registration required because seats are limited.
- Date
- Saturday 7 November 2026
- Time
- To be announced
- Venue
- CGMI, Garden City, Plot 115 T F Kuboye Street, Victoria Island, Lagos
- Finalists
- 12 schools · 24 student debaters
- Guests
- About 500
- Prize pool
- ₦1.5 million
- Entry
- Free, registration required
2026 line-up
Who's in the room.
Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, OON
Chairman and CEO, Nigerian Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM)
Toheeb Dele-Balogun
Co-founder and Chief Impact Officer, The Hook Creative Agency
Titilope Fakuade
Chief Technology and Information Officer, MTN Benin
Ugonna Achebe
Social impact innovator
Adedeji Victor Osemudiamen and Itunuoluwa Hunga
Third judge, keynote speaker and two panelists
To be announced
How it works
From twelve schools to one champion.
Shortlist
Twelve schools are shortlisted for the grand finale.
Round 1
All 12 schools are paired to face off on different topics.
Final Round
The top 6 schools by points debate again.
Judging
Three expert judges score content and knowledge, delivery, argumentation, rebuttal, time management and teamwork.
Who can compete
Any public or private secondary school in Lagos.
Students from all classes can apply. Each school fields two debaters and one teacher or coach.
How to apply
2026 applications are closed.
Applications closed on 17 October 2026. Applications for 2027 will be announced here and on our social channels. Follow @dacurateinsight to be first to know.
What is at stake
₦1.5 million in prizes.
Half supports the winning schools and half supports the contestants through scholarships, training and other development opportunities.
- Individual and group awards for outstanding performances
- Certificates and branded merchandise for all 24 finalists
- Access to internships, scholarship grants, mentorship, leadership training and media features
Why it matters
The Debate builds more than arguments. It builds leaders.
Confidence in public speaking
Articulate ideas clearly and persuasively in front of audiences.
Critical thinking
Challenge assumptions and analyse complex issues from several perspectives.
Collaboration and teamwork
Build compelling arguments together and support teammates.
Navigating uncertainty
Think on your feet and adapt to real-world challenges.
Communication skills
Career-ready communication and leadership abilities.
Leadership development
The foundation for becoming tomorrow's leaders and innovators.
Four editions, one tradition
Past seasons.
The first edition
In partnership with Debra's Palace (Boy Child Initiative).
Leadership and Finance
Over 300 students from 20 public and private schools; eight schools reached the grand finale.
Leadership and Technology
MUSON Centre, Onikan, 30 October 2025. Ten finalists from 100+ entries, 500+ attendees and 2,000+ online viewers.
Visit the 2025 site ↗Leadership and Innovation
Bigger, better and more entertaining. Twelve schools reach the finale, up from ten in 2025.
Visit the 2026 site ↗2025 results
On the 2025 stage
Judges, keynote and moderator.
Prof. Enase Okonedo, FCA
Vice-Chancellor, Pan-Atlantic University
Damilola Teidi-Ayoola
Head, Platform and Networks, Ventures Platform Fund
Jude Dike
CEO and Co-founder, GetEquity
Josemaria Agulanna
Co-founder and CEO, Keble
Emmanuel Macaulay Afemike
King E, media consultant and emcee
Be there
Watch in the room or online.
Every finale brings schools, judges, partners and families into one room.
Come and watch
Attendance is free, but registration is compulsory because seats are limited. Schools that are not competing can register as a Guest School and bring their students to watch, learn and be inspired.
Watch live
Every debate is streamed live. Follow @dacurateinsight on all platforms, and find past debates on our YouTube channel.
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