•The Prize award presented by the champions to the Leaders of The Salvation Army, Nigeria Territory, Colonels Friday and Glory Ayanam (3rd and 2nd right)
The Catherine Booth Senior Secondary School (CBSS), Lagos has emerged the overall winner of this year’s annual Senior Secondary Schools Debate.
With 28 top-tier schools competing fiercely for the grand title, CBSS owned by The Salvation Army, Nigeria, distinguished itself through brilliant arguments, eloquent presentation, and critical thinking skills.
The outstanding performance of the speakers secured the school the championship position and a grand cash prize of One Million Naira.
This was made known in a statement issued today by the Territorial Public Relations Secretary (TPRS) of The Salvation Army, Major Daniel Ekong, and made available to The Frontier.
According to Ekong, this year’s debate centered around the thought-provoking theme:
“Cultism in Secondary Schools: Who Bears Greater Responsibility – The Government or The Family?”
The debate was held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at Harmony Hall, Yaba Baptist Church, Lagos.
“The impactful debate was organised by Career Carrierz in collaboration with the Royal Ambassadors, Lagos East Baptist Conference, and the Antisocial Vices Club,” said Ekong.
“Adding to the school’s moment of glory, one of its remarkable students by name Eliana Arihodion also emerged the Best Speaker of the competition!
“The debate provided the students with a platform to develop public speaking skills, enhance their critical thinking, and raise awareness on crucial societal issues. Through engagements like these, young minds are better equipped to become responsible, informed, and proactive citizens.
“As a proud institution of The Salvation Army, Nigeria Territory, Catherine Booth Secondary School, located at No. 6 Shipeolu Street, Onipanu, Shomolu, Lagos State, continues to uphold academic excellence, moral integrity, and leadership development.
“We commend our students, teachers, and management for their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence,” the statement further said.
The Frontier reports that The Salvation Army was founded in 1865 by William and Catherine Booth in East End London.
The Organisation is the largest denomination known internationally for its humanitarian services hence its popular maxim: “Heart To God, Hand To Man”.
The Salvation Army operates in 132 countries of the world and adopts military terms and ranks for its operations.
