The University of Ilorin, Kwara State has emerged as an African champion at the maiden edition of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) youth debate challenge held in Zambia.

The University had recorded an outstanding performance in the preliminary rounds of the inaugural edition of the Africa Youth Trade debate organised by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, where it secured the zonal crown in June this year.

Consequently, the institution's debate team was granted an all-expenses-paid trip to Lusaka, Zambia, for the grand finals of the competition.

At the grand finale of the AfCFTA symposium competition held from August 21 to August 23, the University team engaged in a closely contested battle of ideas against the Kwame Nkrumah University, Zambia team.

The University of Ilorin team, which include: Olayinka Esther (Agriculture), Olafisoye Tolulope (Law), John-Kalio Peace (Law), Ayodele Samuel (Engineering) and Owólabí Victor (Education) was announced as the overall champion in Africa.

Besides securing the championship trophy, one of the team members, Olafisoye Tolulope, also earned another trophy as the overall best speaker at the tournament.