The United Bank for Africa (UBA) Foundation has once again opened the doors of opportunity for young Nigerians with the 2025 edition of its National Essay Competition. This annual program, which has become one of the most prestigious writing contests for secondary school students in Nigeria, is back — bigger and better — with life-changing prizes, a thought-provoking theme, and a chance for students to showcase their creativity, knowledge, and vision for the nation.
This article gives you a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about the competition — from the theme and eligibility requirements to the prizes, deadlines, and tips to craft a winning essay.
🌍 About the UBA Foundation National Essay Competition
The UBA Foundation National Essay Competition is one of the flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of the United Bank for Africa (UBA). Over the years, it has empowered countless young Nigerians by promoting literacy, critical thinking, and a culture of writing among secondary school students.
The competition is designed not just to test writing ability, but also to encourage participants to think deeply about national issues and offer solutions that reflect the energy, creativity, and resilience of young people. For many students, the competition has been a stepping stone to greater academic and professional success.
📝 Theme for 2025
This year’s essay prompt is timely, relevant, and thought-provoking:
“Nigeria is characterised by diverse cultures, ethnicities, and religions. How can young Nigerians deploy diversity to build a united nation?”
At its core, the theme challenges students to reflect on the beauty of Nigeria’s diversity and how the younger generation can transform it into a force for unity and progress. It is an opportunity for students to explore cultural tolerance, national identity, and the role of young people in peacebuilding and development.
🎖 Prizes and Rewards
One of the reasons the UBA Foundation National Essay Competition is highly sought after is because of its generous rewards. The 2025 edition is offering record-breaking educational grants that will make a huge difference in the winners’ academic journeys.
Here’s what’s up for grabs:
- 🥇 First Prize Winner – ₦10,000,000 educational grant
- 🥈 Second Prize Winner – ₦7,500,000 educational grant
- 🥉 Third Prize Winner – ₦5,000,000 educational grant
- 🎁 Consolation Prizes – Other outstanding participants will also be recognized and rewarded with laptops and other educational support materials.
This makes the competition not just a platform for recognition but a life-changing opportunity that can fund years of higher education.
✅ Eligibility and Requirements
The competition is open to all senior secondary school students in Nigeria. However, applicants must carefully adhere to the rules to avoid disqualification.
Requirements for Application:
- Handwritten Essay – The essay must not exceed 750 words and must be clearly written.
- Application Form – Applicants must fill out the official form through the UBA Foundation competition portal.
- Recent Passport Photograph – A clear and recent passport photo is compulsory.
- Valid ID – Each applicant must upload a scanned copy of a valid means of identification such as:
- Birth Certificate
- National ID Card
- International Passport
- Submission Deadline – All entries must be submitted before Friday, October 17, 2025. Late entries will not be considered.
⚠️ Note: Any missing document or failure to meet the guidelines may lead to disqualification.
🗓 Timeline of the Competition
- Opening of Entries: September 2025
- Submission Deadline: Friday, October 17, 2025
- Review & Shortlisting: Essays will be reviewed by a panel of judges made up of academics, writers, and professionals.
- Final Stage: Shortlisted students will be invited for an oral presentation/defense of their essays.
- Announcement of Winners: Late 2025, in a special ceremony hosted by UBA Foundation.
📌 Why You Should Apply
Participating in this competition is about more than just winning money. Here’s why every eligible student should give it a shot:
- Boost Your Writing Skills – The process of brainstorming, researching, and writing improves your ability to communicate ideas effectively.
- Scholarship Opportunity – Winning an educational grant worth millions can change your academic future.
- Recognition & Exposure – Winners gain nationwide recognition and often feature in newspapers, TV, and social media platforms.
- Personal Growth – Engaging with the theme helps you think critically about your country and your role in nation-building.
- Networking – Participants and winners get to meet like-minded young leaders and professionals.
✍️ Tips for Writing a Winning Essay
Here are some practical tips to help you stand out in this year’s competition:
- Understand the Theme – Carefully analyze the essay prompt. Your response should directly address how Nigeria’s diversity can be turned into a tool for unity.
- Do Proper Research – Use historical facts, current events, and real-life examples to strengthen your argument.
- Be Original – Avoid clichés. Judges are looking for fresh perspectives and creative solutions.
- Organize Your Essay – Use a clear structure: introduction, body (with well-developed points), and conclusion.
- Use Simple English – Avoid overly complex grammar. Clarity and coherence are more important than big words.
- Proofread – Eliminate spelling, punctuation, and grammar errors. A clean essay makes a good impression.
- Practice Public Speaking – If shortlisted, you’ll be asked to defend your essay orally. Work on your confidence and communication skills.
🌟 Past Impact of the Competition
Over the years, the UBA Foundation Essay Competition has produced outstanding young leaders who have gone on to achieve academic excellence both in Nigeria and abroad. Many winners have used their grants to study in top universities, while others have gained visibility and mentorship opportunities.
This proves that the competition is more than just an essay contest — it is an investment in the future of Africa.
🔗 How to Apply
Interested students can apply through the UBA Foundation competition portal.
👉 Click here to apply directly
Remember: Entries close on October 17, 2025.
