Applications are invited for the 9th Annual Fisayo Soyombo Inter-Varsity Essay Competition, organized by the Union of Campus Journalists at the University of Ibadan. This competition aims to engage undergraduate students in Nigeria by allowing them to showcase their writing and analytical skills on significant democratic issues. The 2026 edition requires participants to write an essay on the topic: “2027 and Beyond: Do Elections Still Deliver Democracy for Nigerians?”
Application Deadline:
- 22 November 2026 (Submissions must be emailed before the final deadline).
Tell Me About The Program:
The Fisayo Soyombo Inter-Varsity Essay Competition is an annual essay-writing initiative organized by the Union of Campus Journalists (UCJ) at the University of Ibadan. Named after investigative journalist and Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) founder Fisayo Soyombo, the competition provides a platform for undergraduate students across Nigerian universities to critically analyze vital national issues, governance, and the future of Nigeria’s democracy—specifically exploring the theme: “2027 and Beyond: Do Elections Still Deliver Democracy for Nigerians?”
Which Fields are Eligible:
- Open to undergraduate students across all academic disciplines and majors.
Type:
National Student Essay Competition & Literary Award
Who can Apply:
- Current Status: Must be an undergraduate student enrolled at a recognized university in Nigeria.
- Verification: Must be able to provide evidence of current student status and a copy of a valid university student identity card.
How are Applicants Selected:
Entries are evaluated by a panel of judges organized by the UCJ University of Ibadan. Essays are assessed based on clarity of thesis, critical thinking, analytical depth, use of credible evidence and logical reasoning, adherence to formatting/word count rules, and direct engagement with the core essay topic.
Which Countries Are Eligible:
Nigeria (Open exclusively to students studying at Nigerian universities).
Where will the Program be Taken:
Virtual / Home-based essay submission evaluated in Ibadan, Nigeria.
How Many Fellows / Grantees:
Top 3 prize winners selected annually from nationwide undergraduate entries.
What is the Benefit of the Program:
- Cash Prizes Worth ₦900,000:
- First Prize: ₦400,000
- Second Prize: ₦300,000
- Third Prize: ₦200,000
- Recognition: Certificates of recognition and plaque awards.
- Platform: Public exposure and a chance to engage national discourse on governance and democracy.
How Long Will it Last:
One-off annual essay competition cycle.
How to Apply:
- Write an original essay adhering to the official topic: “2027 and Beyond: Do Elections Still Deliver Democracy for Nigerians?”
- Ensure your essay meets the formatting and length guidelines:
- Word count: 1,500 to 2,000 words
- Font: Times New Roman
- Font Size: 12
- Line Spacing: 1.5
- Prepare a scanned copy or clear image of your valid university student ID card.
- Send your essay document and school ID attachment via email to
[email protected]. - Use a clear email subject line formatted as:
Fisayo Soyombo Inter-Varsity Essay Competition 2026 – [Your Full Name]. - Submit no later than 22 November 2026.
