The Dawn of a New Era: Queens Hall Shines at Jaw War

Jaw War, as it is popularly known, is the largest public speaking competition in sub-Saharan Africa. It brings together faculties and Halls of Residence in the University of Ibadan to support their representatives in a battle of words and wit. This platform features veteran and budding speakers, making it a prestigious event for all participants. This year’s theme, The Rise of Legends, aimed to unveil new speakers and give them a chance to showcase their talent.

For Queen Elizabeth II Hall, the competition has historically been a challenging journey. Earlier this year, in the last edition of Jaw War, the hall faced defeat at the hands of Nnamdi Azikwe Hall. In sessions past, Queens Hall experienced repeated losses, solidifying a reputation for never making it to the next round. This construct of perennial loss became a defining narrative for Queens Hall within the university community, leading many to view the hall as weak and incapable of competing with stronger constituencies.

Adding to this challenge was the dwindling support from Queenites themselves. Years of consistent losses eroded their confidence and hope, resulting in limited participation and encouragement. But as Michael Jordan once famously said, “I have failed over and over again in my life, and that is why I win.” This year, Queens Hall proved that a new era can indeed unfold with perseverance and unity charting a new course for itself.

This session’s JAW War marked a turning point for Queens Hall, as it faced Sultan Bello Hall in the first round. Sultan Bello Hall, a formidable opponent who made it to the finals two sessions ago, entered the competition with confidence, expecting history to repeat itself. For many, the odds seemed stacked against Queens Hall.

However, the hall’s representatives—Afolabi E. Simisola (five-minute speaker) and Toluwani Adegboye (three-minute speaker)—delivered stellar performances against Sultan Bello’s Babatimehin Peace and Akinola Akinyode. The debate topic is “Is it justifiable to use animals for scientific research”? Was contested fiercely. The result was a narrow victory for Queens Hall, with a score of 66.8 to 66.6.

This win not only broke a long-standing cycle of defeat but also served as a reminder that no challenge is insurmountable with determination and support.

This success was not achieved in isolation. It was the result of collective efforts from all stakeholders in the hall. The executives mobilised resources and rallied Queenites to support Queen Elizabeth II Hall's Literary and Debating Society. Buses were arranged, fliers were distributed, and parts of the hall were adorned in purple to symbolise solidarity. For the first time in years, Queenites came out in large numbers to cheer on their speakers.

Behind the scenes, the dedication of the speakers, speech coach, president and members was remarkable. Sleepless nights, intensive practice sessions, and unyielding determination ensured the team was well-prepared. Their efforts paid off, leading to this historic moment for the hall.

This victory signifies the dawn of a new era for Queens Hall. It marks a shift in perception, proving that with unity and effort, even the most formidable challenges can be overcome. More importantly, it reignites hope and sets a new standard for participation and excellence in the hall.

To sustain this success, it is crucial to maintain the spirit of unity and collective action—not just in Jaw War, but in every endeavour where a Queenite represents the hall. This moment should serve as a rallying point for future successes, reminding everyone that Queens Hall can rise to greatness when its members come together.