By Thaimu T Kamara
The Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, successfully hosted the 9th Inter-University Speech Contest at the University of Sierra Leone’s Fourah Bay College (FBC) University Hall in Freetown. The event brought together outstanding student debaters from five West African countries to discuss the role of recovered assets in promoting youth development across the region.
The debate was held under the theme, “Redirecting Recovered Wealth into Youth Education, Innovation and Entrepreneurship,” highlighting the importance of investing recovered proceeds of crime in initiatives that empower young people and contribute to sustainable economic growth in West Africa.
Five countries—Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Liberia and The Gambia—participated in the competition, with each contestant presenting well-researched arguments on how recovered wealth can be redirected to strengthen education, encourage innovation and create entrepreneurial opportunities for young people.
The programme attracted several high-profile dignitaries, including the Director General of GIABA, Mr. Edwin W. Harris; the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone, Professor James Russell; representatives from the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA); officials from the Ministry of Finance; the Deputy Director of Youth Affairs; representatives of the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education; members of the diplomatic and academic communities; and the media.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Mr. Harris emphasized GIABA’s commitment to transparency, accountability and youth empowerment. He noted that the speech contest forms part of the institution’s broader efforts to raise awareness among young people about the economic and social consequences of financial crimes and the importance of good governance.
He encouraged participants to uphold the values of dignity, integrity and hard work, stressing that success is achieved through dedication, discipline and honesty. He further highlighted GIABA’s continued investment in youth education, capacity building and empowerment programmes across West Africa, describing young people as the region’s greatest asset for future development.
Other guest speakers echoed similar sentiments, urging participants to remain focused on academic excellence, leadership and innovation. They commended GIABA for creating a platform that enables young people from different countries to exchange ideas, promote regional integration and contribute solutions to challenges affecting the sub-region.
At the start of the programme, organizers introduced all participating contestants and outlined the prizes available for winners. The prize package included laptop computers, certificates of participation and substantial cash awards for the first, second and third-place winners, with the total prize value exceeding Le75 million. The announcement was warmly received by participants and guests, adding excitement to the competition.
The debate itself was highly competitive, with contestants demonstrating impressive public speaking skills, critical thinking and a sound understanding of the subject matter. Audience members applauded the participants for presenting practical and innovative recommendations on how recovered assets can be invested to improve education systems, support youth-led businesses and stimulate economic development throughout West Africa.
After careful deliberation, the panel of judges declared Salihu Amra Onize of Nigeria the overall winner of the 9th Inter-University Speech Contest. Her outstanding presentation, confidence and depth of analysis earned her first place and the championship title.
Representing Ghana, Emmanuella Aba K. Amenu secured second place after delivering a compelling presentation that also impressed both the judges and the audience.
Host nation Sierra Leone celebrated its own success as Fatmata Binta Bah finished in third place, receiving a certificate, gifts and a cash prize in recognition of her commendable performance during the contest.
The announcement of the winners was greeted with applause and celebration from participants, guests and supporters, reflecting the spirit of unity and healthy competition that characterized the event. Organizers congratulated all contestants for their dedication and encouraged them to continue serving as ambassadors for integrity, education and regional cooperation.
The programme concluded with the presentation of awards and certificates to the winners and participants, followed by a luncheon for invited guests. Transportation refunds were also provided to participants and invited guests before the successful conclusion of the event.
The annual GIABA Inter-University Speech Contest continues to serve as an important platform for engaging young people on issues of anti-money laundering, asset recovery, economic development and regional cooperation. Through initiatives such as this, GIABA seeks to inspire the next generation of leaders to promote transparency, accountability and sustainable development across West Africa.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 27th July 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
