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Education remains one of the most powerful tools for transformation. At One Youth Global, this belief continues to drive our mission of equipping young people with skills, opportunities, and platforms to rise as leaders. Spark Nation 2.0, held in 2025, has become a shining example of how debate, quizzes, and mentorship can transform lives and inspire a generation.
A National Stage for Young Minds
Spark Nation 2.0 officially began in February 2025 with volunteer training, followed by the national preliminaries in May. The journey reached its peak with a one-week all-expenses-paid bootcamp in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, from June 15 to June 21. This year, the competition achieved a truly national reach, drawing participation from over 180 schools, 1,000+ students, and 360+ teachers across all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
What began as a state-focused program in Spark Nation 1.0 has now grown into a nationwide movement, inspiring young people from Lagos to Jos, Anambra to Ogun.
The theme of Spark Nation remained consistent: bridging the gap between talent and opportunity. But Spark Nation 2.0 expanded its scope with panel discussions on ethical leadership, cultivating excellence, youth entrepreneurship, the power of entertainment, and the opportunities of artificial intelligence.
Participants also benefited from a powerful lecture by Prof. Ben Voth of Southern Methodist University, who taught them the craft of persuasive communication, the anatomy of a great debate, and how to deliver speeches that inspire.
At the bootcamp, we introduced new and exciting formats: the Ronald Reagan-style debate, impromptu speeches, simulations, and even drama and variety nights. These additions gave participants broader platforms to express themselves, test their creativity, and sharpen their critical thinking.
Spark Nation 2.0 was powered by a growing network of partners who believe in the future of young people. Among them were the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation, Southern Methodist University, Ike Elechi Ogba Foundation, Legacy FM 95.1 Abakaliki, Coal City University Enugu, Davis Cable, amongst others. Together, they helped make the dream of raising tomorrow’s leaders a reality.
Debate Winners: Olaloluwa Olajolo (Wellspring College, Lagos) and Nwuke Michelle (CSMT, Abakaliki).
Quiz Winners: Oroke Victor and Oduge Moses (Great Achievers International, Abakaliki)
In addition to the recognition and trophies, the winners received a ₦1 million scholarship to any public tertiary institution in Nigeria. Teachers were also celebrated in a big way: the coaches of the winning teams were awarded a ₦200,000 cash prize during the grand finale. As one teacher put it, “For once, we feel seen and valued. This reward goes a long way in reminding us that our work truly matters.”
Every participant carried home more than certificates. Many spoke about how Spark Nation changed their outlook on life. One finalist shared, “I came here shy and unsure, but today I leave as someone who believes I can stand on any stage, anywhere in the world.” These stories capture the heart of Spark Nation: it is not just about competition, but about transformation.
Spark Nation 2.0 has proven that when young people are given the right platform, they rise beyond expectations. Building on this success, we are preparing to launch Spark Nation 3.0, expanding beyond Nigeria into West and Central Africa. The vision is clear: to raise a new generation of African leaders, thinkers, and changemakers.
Spark Nation is more than a program—it is a movement of hope, excellence, and leadership. We invite students, teachers, sponsors, and education advocates to partner with us as we shape the future of education in Africa. Together, we can ignite more minds, raise more leaders, and transform our continent.
