The National Essay Competition organised by the UBA Foundation recorded a landmark moment as 13-year-old Ebunoluwa Seth of Igando Community Senior High School emerged winner of the 15th edition. The young SS2 student became the youngest champion in the history of the competition and secured a N10 million educational grant for further studies in any African higher institution. His victory reaffirmed the competition’s role in shaping academic excellence.
Historic win in the National Essay Competition
Ebunoluwa also became the first male winner in more than eight years of the National Essay Competition, breaking a long cycle of female dominance. He expressed gratitude and joy, noting that passion, commitment, and resilience guided his journey. He added that the competition strengthened his interest in writing and sharpened his confidence in telling impactful stories through words.
The contest rewarded other outstanding participants as well. The second-place winner, Njoku-Kelechi Emerald of Christian International High School, Owerri, received a N7.5 million educational grant. The third-place prize of N5 million went to Bayero Fatima Auwal of Cornerstone Montessori Schools, Gudu, Abuja. All 12 finalists received brand-new laptops and learning materials to support their academic pursuits.
This year’s edition attracted thousands of entries. Participation expanded beyond major cities, with rural communities submitting a significant number of essays. The broad reach confirmed the growing national appeal of the National Essay Competition and its influence across diverse academic environments.
UBA Group Managing Director/CEO, Oliver Alawuba, commended the Foundation’s consistency over fifteen years. He highlighted the competition’s key role in reviving reading culture among young people and strengthening intellectual development across the country. He also emphasised the bank’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and national unity as demonstrated in the finalists’ essays.
The Managing Director/CEO of the UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, expressed appreciation to partners, schools, and parents. She noted that education remains central to Africa’s growth and that the programme has expanded its influence each year. She reaffirmed the Foundation’s mission to empower young Africans by investing in knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking.
Over the years, the Foundation has executed numerous philanthropic projects across Africa. These include scholarships, community education programmes, healthcare interventions, and poverty alleviation efforts. Through the National Essay Competition, the CSR arm of the UBA Group continues to champion development in education, environment, economic empowerment, and special community projects.
