The UBA Foundation has announced the return of its National Essay Competition (NEC) for its 16th edition, offering a total of N41 million in educational grants to five senior secondary school students in Nigeria. The competition, which opens a pathway for young writers to secure funding for their university education, will award the first-place winner a N15 million grant, while second and third place receive N10.5 million and N7.5 million respectively. For the first time in the competition's history, fourth and fifth-place winners will also receive grants of N5 million and N3.5 million each.
Competition Theme and Participation Details
Participants in the 2026 NEC will be required to respond to a question directly tied to Nigeria's developmental challenges: “No nation can develop without food security. How can Nigeria deal with this problem?” The essay prompt invites students to think critically and propose practical solutions for a national issue affecting all citizens.
The competition is open to Nigerian senior secondary school students. Essays must be handwritten, no more than 750 words, and submitted through the competition's digital portal at https://www.ubagroup.com/nec/. The deadline for applications is Friday, October 23, 2026.
Significance and Impact of the Grants
The UBA Foundation NEC has become a notable platform for nurturing young talent in Nigeria, encouraging students to express their ideas and sharpen their writing and critical thinking abilities. The introduction of fourth and fifth-place prizes expands the number of beneficiaries, reflecting the foundation's commitment to broadening educational support.
The total prize pool of N41 million underscores the scale of the opportunity for young Nigerians aiming to pursue university education. According to the announcement, this year's competition offers even more reason for young writers to participate, with the increased prize structure marking a significant boost from previous editions.
Application Process and Next Steps
Interested students are advised to prepare their handwritten essays and submit them via the official portal before the closing date. The competition's digital submission system ensures a streamlined process for applicants across the country.
As the NEC celebrates its 16th year, the foundation reiterates that this is a chance for students to turn their ideas into tangible rewards. With the application window open until October 23, 2026, eligible students have a limited window to seize this opportunity for a share of N41 million in educational grants.
