The UBA National Essay Competition aims to promote the reading culture and encourage healthy and intellectual competition amongst secondary school students in Nigeria and across Africa.
Application Deadline
- 23 October 2026
Tell Me About The Competition
The UBA Foundation National Essay Competition (NEC) is an annual initiative aimed at senior secondary school students in Nigeria. It promotes a reading culture, intellectual competition, and critical thinking among young learners. Winners receive substantial educational grants to pursue undergraduate studies at any African university of their choice.
Type
- Essay Competition | Secondary School Students | Nigeria
Who Can Apply
Applicants must:
- Be a Nigerian senior secondary school student.
- Submit a handwritten essay (max 750 words).
- Upload a passport photograph.
- Provide a scanned copy of birth certificate, National ID, or international passport.
- Complete the official application form.
Essay Topic (2026)
“No Nation Can Develop Without Food Security. How Can Nigeria Deal With This Problem?”
Benefits
- ₦15 million – Winner.
- ₦10 million – 2nd place.
- ₦7.5 million – 3rd place.
- ₦5 million – 4th place.
- ₦3.5 million – 5th place.
- Total prize pool: ₦41 million in scholarships and awards.
How Long Will the Scholarship Last
- Grants cover undergraduate study duration at any African university of choice.
Selection Process
- Stage 1: Call for entries – 20 best essays selected.
- Stage 2: Final physical test – 5 winners chosen.
Required Documents
- Handwritten essay (≤750 words).
- Passport photograph.
- Proof of identity (birth certificate, National ID, or passport).
- Completed application form.
How to Apply
- Visit the UBA Foundation application portal.
- Upload handwritten essay and required documents.
- Ensure essay is proofread and meets requirements.
- Submit by 23 October 2026.
Visit UBA National Essay Competition Webpage for Details
