A talented journalism student from Yaba College of Technology, YABATECH, has clinched the top prize in a major national literary contest. Victoria Ogoke was declared the winner of the 2025 Zaccheus Onumba Dibiaezue Memorial Library (ZODML) Poetry Competition, walking away with a grand prize of N500,000.
Celebrating Creative Talent Across Nigerian Campuses
The competition, which carried the theme "Seeds of tomorrow," was open to students from public tertiary institutions nationwide. It proved to be highly competitive, drawing a staggering 2,356 entries from scholars in 140 different institutions. Ogoke's winning piece, titled "Harvest never rich," stood out for its exceptional creativity and powerful message, ultimately securing her the winner's spot.
The event also recognised other outstanding poets. Rachael Ajisafe, who studies Law at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in Ago-Iwoye, was named the first runner-up and received N300,000. The second runner-up prize of N200,000 was awarded to Eliongema Udofia from the University of Uyo.
Judges and Organisers Hail High Standards
Ifeoma Esiri, the Executive Chairman of ZODML, expressed immense joy at the quality of poems submitted. She stated that the competition reflects the organisation's deep commitment to fostering a love for learning among students. "Students are dear to the heart of ZODML, and I’m happy that so many of you have come here today," Esiri remarked. She further emphasized that the success of the five shortlisted students is clear proof of the immense potential residing within Nigeria's public tertiary institutions.
The judging process was designed to be completely fair and impartial. Chioma Ilozumba, a lawyer and playwright who spoke for the panel of judges, explained that all entries were collected anonymously and identified only by numbers. The judges evaluated the poems based on strict criteria, including:
- Adherence to the given theme.
- Demonstrated creativity and originality.
- The overall impact and resonance of the work.
A Boost for Creativity and Academic Excellence
The award ceremony was also graced by representatives from the academic community. The Vice-Chancellor was represented by Augustine Wagbara, the Head of the English Department, who commended both the contestants and the organisers. He stressed that competitions like the ZODML poetry contest are vital for nurturing young minds and encouraging creative expression. The representative urged all students to pursue excellence and maintain discipline in all their endeavours.
This victory highlights the vibrant literary scene within Nigerian colleges and underscores the significant role such platforms play in uncovering and rewarding young artistic talent. For Victoria Ogoke and her fellow finalists, this achievement marks a promising step in their creative journeys.
