By Ayomide Otitoju
Tehilah Isimah, a 16-year-old student from Everest Heights International Academy, Gwagwalada, Abuja, has emerged as the overall winner of the 14th edition of the National Essay Competition (NEC) organized by the UBA Foundation.
Isimah clinched the top spot at the grand finale held on Tuesday at UBA House, Lagos. She was awarded the coveted N7.5 million educational grant, which will support her university education at any African institution of her choice.
The competition, a flagship initiative of the UBA Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the United Bank for Africa Group, aims to showcase and nurture the brightest minds among senior secondary school students across Nigeria.
Expressing her joy after receiving her grant, trophy, and certificate, Isimah said, “I am so happy; I prayed and worked so hard for this. Even though I am a science student, I have always loved writing. UBA Foundation, this is answered prayers for me; I will forever be grateful.”
Her mother, who attended the event, described the win as a “dream come true,” adding, “Thank you, UBA Foundation. This is indeed a blessing for our family.”
The second-place prize of a N5 million educational grant was awarded to Obinna-Chukwu Christabel from Regina Pacis College, Abuja, while Essien Greatness from Nigerian Christian Institute, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, secured the third position with a N3.5 million grant.
UBA Group Managing Director/CEO, Oliver Alawuba, congratulated the winners and reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to promoting education across Africa.
“At the UBA Foundation, education has always been our cornerstone. We believe that knowledge is the most powerful catalyst for transformative change. By investing in education, we are empowering individuals to shape their futures and drive societal progress,” he stated.
Bola Atta, MD/CEO of UBA Foundation, highlighted the growing interest in the competition, particularly in the northern regions of Nigeria.
“This year’s entries were not only numerous but of exceptional quality, reflecting the brilliance and creativity of Africa’s next generation,” she said.
The competition, which received over 10,000 entries this year, marked a significant milestone. Participants addressed the topic: “The Impact of Carbon Emission on Climate Change in Nigeria: Challenges and Solutions.”
All 20 finalists received brand-new laptops and other prizes, underscoring the foundation’s dedication to rewarding excellence and inspiring young minds.
