The city of Ibadan, Nigeria, hosted a captivating spectacle as finalists from across the nation gathered for the 2024 Young Orators national final competition.

Organised by the Peat Philips Foundation, this prestigious event serves as the Nigerian franchise of the International Public Speaking Competition, annually conducted by the English-Speaking Union.

Akinleye Olu-Philips, Team Lead at Peat Philips Foundation, highlighted Ibadan’s rich literary heritage, underscoring its significance as a nurturing ground for literary talents in Nigeria.

Amidst fierce competition, 20-year-old Folakemi Adebayo, a second-year Law student at the University of Ibadan, clinched the coveted title. Torkuma Mimidoo Perpetual (17), a science student from Rosladys College, Gboko, Benue State and Inioluwa Sodunke from De – Glorious Heritage School, Lagos State, secured the second and third positions respectively.

Folakemi Adebayo’s victory earns her the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the 2024 International Public Speaking Competition scheduled in London from May 13 to 17. The national final was generously sponsored by Learn Africa Plc, with support from Alpha FC Abuja.