Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders: UBA Foundation's National Essay Competition Shapes Nigeria's Youth

The United Bank for Africa (UBA) Foundation’s National Essay Competition (NEC) has been transforming lives for 14 years, empowering African youth through education.

This initiative, part of UBA’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), focuses on development in education, environment, economic empowerment, and special projects.

Ikenna Obinna Ugwuegbulam’s story exemplifies the competition’s impact. After losing his father to cancer, Ikenna’s education grant from winning the 2012 NEC helped him navigate university financially.

Today, he’s a Product Manager at Kuda Bank with a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the University of Lagos.

The NEC challenges senior secondary school students to write on thought-provoking topics, fostering critical thinking and self-expression. The 2024 edition promises a grander scale, with a multi-tiered approach and increased cash prizes.

Fehintoluwa Miriam Fabelurin, a science student, took a leap of faith and applied. She became one of 12 finalists and eventual overall winner. Now, Dr. Fehintoluwa Fabelurin is a medical doctor, crediting the Foundation for her journey.

Nwajiaku-Nwadike Vivian, third-place winner in 2011, is now a practicing lawyer. She praises the Foundation for playing a pivotal role in her education.

UBA Foundation’s Managing Director/CEO, Bola Atta, emphasizes that quality education drives Africa’s development. “When we invest in education, we elevate entire communities.”

The Foundation increased educational grants by 100% to combat inflation and tuition hikes. Winners receive substantial grants to pursue studies at any African university.

Professor Asabe Kabir Usman, a long-standing judge, praises students’ depth of insight and fresh perspectives. She notes that the competition fosters critical thinking and authentic voices.

The UBA Foundation’s NEC has touched hundreds of lives, nurturing potential and opening doors to brighter futures.

Fehintoluwa advises students to participate, saying, “You don’t know where this can take you in the future.”

The NEC embodies UBA Foundation’s mission to empower African youth through education, creating a generation of confident, critical thinkers eager to make a difference.

By investing in education, UBA Foundation elevates communities, shaping Nigeria’s future leaders.