Student wins ₦1 million as Arewa Radio 93.1 FM concludes 2026 debate contest

By Aliyu Inuwa Mansir On May 15, 2026

Student, Arewa Radio 93.1 FM, debate contest, Muhawara , — Student wins ₦1 million as Arewa Radio 93.1 FM concludes 2026 debate contest

Arewa Radio 93.1 FM has concluded the grand finale of the second season of its annual debate competition, Muhawara, aimed at promoting intellectual discourse, critical thinking and public speaking among secondary school students in Kano.

The competition featured 16 students from different secondary schools across the state, with three outstanding participants emerging as winners after weeks of competitive rounds.

Miss Hajara Ahmad Sani of Samaru International School came first with 53.5 points and won ₦1 million. Miss Rukayya Muhammad of Star Science College placed second with 47 points and received ₦700,000, while Miss Ummulsalama Mustapha of Government Girls Secondary School secured third position and went home with ₦500,000.

SolaceBase reports that the final debate saw Hajara and Rukayya debate on the topic: “The Health Sector Should Receive More Budget Allocation Than Education in Nigeria Based on Current Population Needs.” The two finalists displayed strong argumentation, confidence and critical reasoning before the panel of judges and audience.

Speaking on behalf of Arewa Radio, Esther Isiaka, Corporate Communications personnel for Arewa Radio and sister stations Cool FM and Wazobia FM, said the debate is designed to challenge students to think beyond the classroom and prepare them for leadership roles in society.

She explained that although Muhawara is relatively new in Kano, the concept is not new to the organisation, as it was adapted from a similar debate programme run by Nigeria Info in cities such as Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.

According to her, the first edition in Kano was held in November 2025, while the just-concluded event marks the second season.

“The debate is meant to encourage students to think outside the box, challenge their minds and read broadly so they can engage meaningfully in conversations that shape the future. We believe the younger generation must be actively involved in charting the future of society,” she said.

Esther noted that the format of the competition is unique because participants are not informed whether they will support or oppose a motion until they enter the studio. She said this approach encourages broad reading and develops spontaneity, enabling students to think on their feet and respond effectively during the rebuttal-style debate.

She further disclosed that participants were scored based on eloquence, style of presentation and their ability to engage in rebuttal, adding that the organisers focused primarily on the individual students rather than the schools they represented.

On his part, the Permanent Secretary of the Kano State Ministry of Education, Bashir Baffa Muhammad, said the debate competition was very impressive and assured that the ministry would continue to support such initiatives.

He also appreciated Arewa Radio and the sponsors of the competition for their support.

Hajara Ahmad Sani of Samaru International School, who emerged first in the competition, thanked the organisers and sponsors for their support. She added that the gift she received would serve as encouragement for her to strive for greater achievements.

Also speaking, Zainab Abdulmalik, Marketing Officer of AA Rano Rice Mill Limited, said the company was pleased to support the initiative, describing education as a vital investment that should never be taken lightly.

She said the company remains committed to supporting programmes that promote education and youth development, and commended Arewa Radio for inviting the firm to be among the sponsors of the competition.

Other sponsors of the event included Muddassir and Brothers, Igwe’s Palace, IRA and Indomie.