Written by The UBA Foundation has opened applications for its 2026 National Essay Competition, inviting Nigerian senior secondary school students to demonstrate their writing skills, critical thinking and ability to propose solutions to national challenges.
The annual competition promotes reading and intellectual development among young people, with ₦41 million in educational grants and prizes available for the top five winners. The grants are intended to support winners’ university education at an African university of their choice.
Essay Topic
“No Nation Can Develop Without Food Security. How Can Nigeria Deal With This Problem?”
Participants are expected to examine Nigeria’s food security challenges and propose practical, sustainable solutions.
Prizes to Be Won
- 1st Prize: ₦15 million
- 2nd Prize: ₦10.5 million
- 3rd Prize: ₦7.5 million
- 4th Prize: ₦5 million
- 5th Prize: ₦3.5 million
The top five winners will receive educational grants and prizes totalling ₦41 million.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be Nigerian senior secondary school students.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit a handwritten essay of no more than 750 words. Typed essays are not accepted.
- Upload a recent passport photograph.
- Provide a scanned copy of a birth certificate, National ID card or international passport.
How to Apply
- Visit the UBA Foundation National Essay Competition page.
- Complete the online application form.
- Write your essay by hand, ensuring it does not exceed 750 words.
- Upload your essay, passport photograph and valid identification document.
- Review your submission carefully before completing the application.
According to UBA Foundation, the first stage will select 20 outstanding essays, followed by a final physical assessment to determine the five winners.
Application Deadline
October 23, 2026.