By Adeyinka Adeniran
The University of Ibadan Literary and Debating Society (TLDS) has flagged off the opening ceremony and first leg of the Inter-Faculty Category of Jaw War 2025, which has been described as Africa’s biggest public speaking competition.
The event, held at the New Faculty Lecture Theatre, attracted students, alumni, civil society groups, and special guests, setting the tone for a six-week tournament that will climax with the grand finale on October 22, 2025, at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
This year’s edition of Jaw War is themed “Africa in the First Century and Beyond: Power, Progress and Possibility.” Each round of the competition is tied to a sub-theme, with the opening leg organized in partnership with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), focusing on food security and nutrition.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, President of TLDS, Babatimehin Peace, described Jaw War as a defining platform for intellectual engagement in Nigeria and across Africa.
He said, “This competition spans seven rounds, and for today, we have partnered with GAIN to spotlight food security and nutrition. Our speakers have been preparing since May, and we expect to hear deep insights on how young people can contribute to food security both in Africa and globally,” he said.
“Jaw War is more than just a competition; it is a classroom of ideas where the brightest minds come together to challenge one another and shape conversations that matter. For us at TLDS, this is about grooming the next generation of leaders who can think, speak, and act for Africa’s progress.”
Also speaking at the event, the National Coordinator of the Scaling Up Nutrition Business Network (SBN) under GAIN, Tomisin Odunbaku, emphasized why the organization partnered with Jaw War.
Odunbaku said, “Malnutrition is a huge challenge in Nigeria. Three out of five children are malnourished, while nine out of ten Nigerians consume contaminated food. With the President’s recent declaration of a state of emergency on food security, we know all hands must be on deck.
“That’s why we are collaborating with the University of Ibadan, to leverage the innovation and fresh ideas of students and youth to transform our food system.”
He further stressed that the arguments and solutions shared during the debates would not end in the hall but could influence wider conversations around policy-making, youth engagement, and private sector action in nutrition.
Former TLDS President and immediate past Students’ Union President, Aweda Bolaji, also praised the significance of the platform.
“Jaw War is always amazing. It gives speakers from different halls of residence and faculties the chance to showcase eloquence while addressing issues that matter to Africa. This year, we continue to promote conversations that can drive positive change across the continent. Every edition of Jaw War shows that the Nigerian youth have the intelligence and the courage to shape Africa’s destiny,” he noted.
Also speaking, Assistant General Secretary of the UI Students’ Union, Olawoye Taiwo Emmanuel, described Jaw War as one of the most energetic and talent-filled competitions in sub-Saharan Africa.
He said, “There is an energy Jaw War brings that you can hardly find anywhere else. It is not just about debating, it is about identity, pride, and showcasing the intellectual wealth of UI students to the whole world. Year after year, this platform reveals talents who go on to make meaningful contributions to society.”
The 2025 edition is expected to feature intense showdowns across halls and faculties, leading up to the highly anticipated finale in October, where a new champion will be crowned in what has become a defining tradition of Nigeria’s premier university.
