Young Nigerians continue to prove that excellence has no borders. From global mathematics competitions and international academic awards to remarkable achievements in law and public speaking, another Nigerian student has added her name to the growing list of young people making the country proud on the international stage.
This time, the spotlight is on Amra Onize Salihu, a 500-level law student at the University of Abuja (UniAbuja), who emerged winner of the 9th Inter-Universities Speech Contest organised by the Intergovernmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA).
Held in Freetown, Sierra Leone, the regional competition brought together outstanding university students from across West Africa, with Salihu delivering the winning performance to secure the prestigious title for Nigeria.
Read: 5 Things You Should Know About Badejo-Okusanya, NBA’s New President
Nigerian Student Emerges Best in West Africa
Before representing Nigeria at the regional contest, Salihu first won the national selection organised by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).
Her victory in Sierra Leone came after competing against participants from The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia and the host nation, Sierra Leone. Her performance earned her the competition’s Winner’s Plaque, a Certificate of Honour, and a cash prize of $1,000.
The achievement adds another international academic success to Nigeria’s growing list of accomplishments and highlights the quality of young talents emerging from the country’s universities.
Teamwork and Mentorship Paved the Way
Behind every successful competitor is a team committed to preparation.
The University of Abuja’s Law Clinic, led by Dr Nasiru Mukhtar, worked closely with Salihu ahead of the competition. She also received technical coaching from Mr J. R. Gogol of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit.
Another 500-level law student, Abah Goodness Ojonoma, attended the competition as an observer, giving the university an additional presence at the regional event.
Reacting to the victory, the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, congratulated Salihu and the Faculty of Law, describing the achievement as another example of the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and global visibility.
Read: How a Book Written at 13 Led Mary-Esther Anele to the Nigerian Bar
A Reminder of Nigeria’s Academic Potential
Public speaking is more than delivering persuasive speeches. It requires research, critical thinking, confidence and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, skills that are especially valuable in the legal profession.
Salihu’s victory reflects the impact of mentorship, preparation and opportunities that allow young Nigerians to compete beyond the country’s borders. It also reinforces the growing reputation of Nigerian students who continue to excel in regional and global competitions across diverse fields.
As more young Nigerians earn international recognition in law, science, technology, finance and leadership, these achievements serve as a reminder that the country’s greatest resource remains its people.
At RefinedNG, we celebrate Nigerians breaking barriers across every field. Follow us for more inspiring stories of excellence, innovation and impact from Nigeria and across Africa, and share this story to celebrate another young Nigerian making history on the regional stage.