Deadline: 30-May-2026
The Francis Ibhawoh Essay Competition invites full-time undergraduate students of Edo State origin studying in tertiary institutions within Edo State to submit essays on AI, technology, education, and innovation in Nigeria. Successful participants will receive an award of N200,000 each for their original essays focused on Nigeria’s digital future.
About the Francis Ibhawoh Essay Competition
The Francis and Fidelia Ibhawoh Foundation has launched the Francis Ibhawoh Essay Competition to encourage innovative thinking among Nigerian youth around technology, education, and national development. The competition aims to support educational achievement while empowering students to contribute meaningfully to societal progress and democratic development.
The initiative creates an opportunity for students to explore how technological advancements and education can shape Nigeria’s future and drive sustainable development.
Focus Areas and Competition Priorities
The competition focuses on AI, technology, education, innovation, development, and the future of learning in Nigeria.
The theme for the competition is:
AI, Technology & Education for Nigeria’s Digital Future: Exploring innovation, development and the future of learning in Nigeria.
The initiative encourages participants to examine how technology and educational innovation can contribute to national growth and strengthen opportunities for future generations.
Award Information
Successful participants will receive:
• Award prize of N200,000 each
The competition recognizes outstanding ideas and quality writing that demonstrate creativity, analysis, and relevance to the competition theme.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must meet the following requirements:
• Must be a full-time undergraduate student
• Must be of Edo State origin
• Must be enrolled in a designated tertiary institution in Edo State, Nigeria
• Must have a minimum CGPA equivalent to Second Class Upper Division (2:1)
• Must provide proof of enrolment during application
Essay Requirements
Applicants are required to submit essays that meet the following conditions:
• Essay length must be between 2,000 and 3,000 words
• Essays must be original work
• Previously published content is not permitted
• Plagiarized material is not allowed
• Essays must include a cover page
The cover page should contain:
• Applicant’s name
• Institution name
• Faculty or department
• Current level of study
Why This Competition Matters
The initiative supports youth development and innovation by:
• Encouraging critical thinking
• Promoting discussions around technology and education
• Supporting educational excellence
• Strengthening youth participation in national development
• Encouraging innovative ideas for Nigeria’s future
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm eligibility requirements before preparing the application.
Step 2: Develop an original essay based on the competition theme.
Step 3: Ensure the essay contains between 2,000–3,000 words.
Step 4: Prepare a cover page with all required information.
Step 5: Include proof of enrolment and submit the application according to competition requirements.
Tips for Applicants
• Focus strongly on the theme of AI, technology, and education.
• Present practical and innovative ideas.
• Use clear arguments and logical structure.
• Support ideas with relevant examples.
• Review grammar and clarity before submission.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Exceeding or falling below the required word limit.
• Submitting previously published material.
• Including plagiarized content.
• Omitting required cover page information.
• Failing to provide proof of enrolment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can participate in the competition?
Full-time undergraduate students of Edo State origin studying in designated tertiary institutions within Edo State may apply.
What is the competition theme?
The theme is “AI, Technology & Education for Nigeria’s Digital Future: Exploring innovation, development and the future of learning in Nigeria.”
What is the prize amount?
Successful participants will receive N200,000 each.
What is the required essay length?
Essays must contain between 2,000 and 3,000 words.
Can previously published essays be submitted?
No. Only original and unpublished work is accepted.
Is there a minimum academic requirement?
Yes. Applicants must have a minimum CGPA equivalent to a Second Class Upper Division (2:1).
What documents are required?
Applicants must provide proof of enrolment and include a cover page with the required personal and academic information.
Conclusion
The Francis Ibhawoh Essay Competition provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to share innovative ideas on technology, education, and Nigeria’s future while receiving recognition and financial support. The initiative encourages young scholars to contribute to national development through creative thinking and meaningful discussion.
For more information, visit Francis and Fidelia Ibhawoh Foundation.
