Julius Berger empowers youth through ‘I Beg to Differ’ debate tournament

. This construction company is building futures – Wazobia FM CEO

Leading construction engineering company, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, once again demonstrated its dedication to nurturing young minds by supporting the I Beg To Differ Debate Tournament, an exciting inter-school debate competition that helps Nigerian youth develop crucial skills like critical thinking, public speaking, research, and communication.

Bringing together secondary school students from across the country, the tournament was more than just a contest. It was a lively platform where young people challenge ideas, express their thoughts confidently, and engage in meaningful conversations about issues shaping their communities and nation.

At the grand finale held in Lagos last Thursday, the Head of Corporate Communication Department at Julius Berger, Emieseifa Agama, Ph.D., praised the students for their remarkable performances and discipline throughout the competition. “The confidence and preparation you’ve shown are incredible achievements,” he said, adding that, “Competitions like this don’t just teach debating; they help you become independent thinkers and respectful leaders, qualities that will serve you well beyond the tournament.”

He encouraged the students to keep being curious, eager to learn, and ready to grab every chance to grow personally and intellectually.

Also, the Group General Manager of Wazobia FM, Mr Femi Obong-Daniels among other radio stations present, thanked Julius Berger for backing the event. The Wazobia FM CEO shared how some people initially wondered why a construction company would sponsor a debate competition, adding excitedly that, “it is clear now, Julius Berger is not just about building roads and bridges; they are about building futures.”

One inspiring story came from Joseph Majesty Ojochegbe, a student from Government Secondary School, Karu, Abuja. Joseph had placed third in last year’s tournament but returned this year to claim one of the top prizes. “Winning this means a lot,” he said, adding that “because last year I only got third place. Now I want to take this debating spirit to further my dream of competing at the World University Debating Championships.”

Julius Berger’s support for I Beg To Differ fits perfectly with its wider mission to empower young Nigerians through education and skills development. The company believes that building a better future means investing not just in infrastructure, but in people, especially the next generation of leaders and innovators.

At the finale, Team Julius Berger included Emieseifa Agama, Lucky Agbajama, Albert Chisom, and Jeffrey Ibeh, all proud to be part of this journey toward meaningful change.

As Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger continues to build strong communities by combining its infrastructure expertise with a passion for uplifting youth and education across the country.