It was a day of excitement and cultural pride at the AkweyaTV Studio in Gwarinpa, Abuja, on Saturday, August 2, 2025, as 13 contestants – 10 in the senior category and three in the junior category – battled for the Akweya Language Speaking Title. The event, which was streamed live on AkweyaTV’s YouTube channel, drew parents, guests, and cultural enthusiasts who gathered to celebrate a vibrant display of linguistic heritage.
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The Akweya Language Speaking Competition was organised as part of activities marking the 5th Anniversary of AkweyaTV. The programme commenced around 10 a.m., following the arrival of the technical crew, staff, contestants, and their families.
Participants in the senior category faced questions related to food, relationships, nature, commerce, and parts of the body, translating selected English words into Akweya. The event challenged young speakers to showcase their fluency and creativity in expressing themselves in their native language.
Addressing the audience before the results were announced, Managing Director of AkweyaTV, Mr. Odoh Diego Okenyodo, stated that the competition’s aim went beyond ranking participants.
“This competition is not just about who wins or loses,” he said. “It is about reviving and celebrating the Akweya language and inspiring children and parents to embrace it at home.”
That sentiment was echoed by several attendees. One parent, Mrs Eneodeh Apasi, shared how the competition impacted her family:
“I told my children no other language should be spoken at home except Akweya. The competition has awakened in us a desire to speak fluent Akweya,” she said.
A panel of respected judges – Mr Thaddeus Ikamokwu (Chairman, Akpa Community Development Association, Abuja Branch), Hon. Lillian Ene Anyebe (Creative Writer), and Mr Benedict Alegwu (Coordinator, Akweya Peace Foundation) – commended the children for their courage and passion, encouraging them to uphold good sportsmanship, whether they win or not.
As anticipation filled the air, Head Judge Mr Thaddeus Ikamokwu announced the results. Elizabeth Ogwebe emerged winner of the senior category, while Juliet Daniel clinched the top spot in the junior category. Both received ₦50,000 cash prizes.
See the moment the winners for the junior category were announced here.
Other contestants were not left out, as they received digital wristwatches, school bags, branded T-shirts, and other consolation prizes.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Okenyodo expressed heartfelt appreciation to the programme’s sponsors and supporters, including: Hon. Kennedy Angbo, Member, Benue State House of Assembly; Mr. Chris Angwu, CEO of De Memories, Masaka; Chief Michael Oglegba, Benue State Commissioner for Finance; Chief Abba Adaudu, the Oyalewa k’Idoma.
The event also welcomed distinguished guests such as Mrs Rose Aleje, Convener of the Don’t Kill My Dream Initiative; Mrs. Ochanya Ojofu, Convener of the Akweya Children’s Carnival and Day; Mrs. Cecilia Omeyi Ogor; and members of the Akweya Peace Foundation.
The competition aims to preserve and promote the Akweya language and culture among the younger generation, ensuring the voice of tradition continues to thrive in the hearts of children
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