LASU DEBATE SOCIETY HOSTS SEVENTH EDITION OF THE BIGGEST STORYTELLING EVENT IN NIGERIA – LISTEN VII

The Lagos State University Debate Society (LSUDS) hosted the seventh edition of Nigeria’s biggest storytelling platform – LISTEN VII on Wednesday, 25th June 2025, at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, Lagos State University, Ojo. Themed ZENITH, the event brought together a constellation of voices, stories, and performances, all centered on rising through adversity and listening deeply to the world within and around us.

The President of the Lagos State University Debate Society, Aina Ayomide, gave a speech that introduced the theme ZENITH, with the inspiring charge: “If you must fail, you must fail forward.” She encouraged attendees to understand that zenith is not perfection but progression – the courage to rise again each time you fall.

The Chairperson, Adewunmi Osonoiki Jessica, appreciated the planning committee and officially welcomed guests to the event.

Before the guest speakers were introduced, Seven spoken word poets delivered a joint performance that explored the meaning of ZENITH and the importance of truly listening. With themes of ambition, growth, failure, and rebirth, their words set the emotional tone for the day and drew loud applause from the audience.

The storytelling session then commenced with the first speaker, Aminat Ige, an award-winning educator and passionate advocate for creative learning and girl-child education. She shared a story of determination, self-discovery, and how she became the individual she is today.

Following her was Eric Gugua, a dynamic writer and creative entrepreneur. In his deeply personal story, he reminded the audience: “The sun will rise tomorrow and we will try again.”

Third to speak was Frank Ikemefuna, a purpose strategist and life coach. He delivered a message wrapped around one a statement: “Purpose is not looking for a passenger, it’s looking for a partner.”

Adeseni Ilemobade, the fourth speaker, shared his personal reflections on clarity, resilience, and growth.

Fifth came Juliana Olayode, popularly known as Toyo Baby from Jenifa’s Diary. An actress, author, and advocate for purity and purpose, her story of healing, faith, and rising above trauma was a moment of collective reflection.

In a performance segment, Dada Girl and M.A.G took the stage with a blend of song and spoken word — a duet that captured the essence of love, faith, and inner strength.

Morayo Afolabi-Brown, celebrated media personality and host of TVC’s Your View, took the stage next. As the sixth speaker, she spoke on embracing visibility, surviving criticism, and defining success through authenticity.

Seventh to speak was Victor Okafor, a branding strategist and youth mentor, who challenged the audience with his firm statement: “If you weren’t born with a powerful surname, you can’t afford to be normal.”

His speech was followed by performance from Human Calculator, whose mind-bending arithmetic feats showcases his talent.

The eighth speaker, Marvis Orji, a leadership consultant, delivered a soul-searching message on intentional living and rising with discipline.

Israel Aminu then brought comic relief to the stage in order to sprinkle laughter and levity across the room.

Rounding off the event was the ninth speaker, Tobi Makinde, a renowned actor and director, known for his role as Timini in Jenifa’s Diary. He spoke on growth, creative discipline, and the power of believing in one’s unique journey.