Julius Berger backs youth development with ‘I Beg To Differ’ debate

Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has strengthened its commitment to youth development by supporting the ‘I Beg To Differ’ inter-school debate tournament, which equips Nigerian students with critical thinking, public speaking, research and communication skills.

The competition brought together secondary school students from across Nigeria, providing them with a platform to debate topical issues, challenge ideas and build confidence in expressing their views.

At the grand finale in Lagos last Thursday, Head of Corporate Communication, Julius Berger, Emieseifa Agama, Ph.D., commended the participants for their impressive performances and discipline throughout the competition.

Agama said the confidence and preparation demonstrated by the students were significant achievements, noting that debate competitions go beyond winning prizes.

“Competitions like this don’t just teach debating; they help you become independent thinkers and respectful leaders, qualities that will serve you well beyond the tournament,” he said.

He urged the students to remain curious, committed to learning and willing to embrace opportunities that would broaden their knowledge and personal development.

The Group General Manager of Wazobia FM, Femi Obong-Daniels, also commended Julius Berger for supporting the tournament.

Obong-Daniels recalled that some people initially questioned why a construction company would sponsor a debate competition, but said the company had demonstrated that its commitment extended beyond infrastructure.

“It is clear now, Julius Berger is not just about building roads and bridges; they are about building futures,” he said.

One of the highlights of the tournament was the performance of Joseph Majesty Ojochegbe of Government Secondary School, Karu, Abuja.

Ojochegbe, who finished third in last year’s competition, returned this year and secured one of the top prizes.

“Winning this means a lot,” he said, adding that “because last year I only got third place. Now I want to take this debating spirit to further my dream of competing at the World University Debating Championships.”

Julius Berger said its support for the debate tournament was part of its broader commitment to education, skills development and youth empowerment.

The company said building a better future requires investment not only in physical infrastructure but also in people, particularly young Nigerians who will become the country’s future leaders and innovators.

The Julius Berger team at the finale comprised Agama, Lucky Agbajama, Albert Chisom and Jeffrey Ibeh.

The event ended with the presentation of prizes to the winners, who celebrated their achievements alongside organisers, sponsors and other stakeholders.