Students Vie for N1.7m in National Essay Contest

Bishop Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition Unveils N1.7 Million Prize Pool for Young Nigerian Scholars

Students from senior and junior secondary schools across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory are invited to showcase their writing prowess and critical thinking skills in the highly anticipated Bishop Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition. This year, a substantial prize pool of N1.7 million is up for grabs, encouraging young minds to engage with contemporary national issues.

Established in 2004 by Bishop Mike Okonkwo, the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), the competition has become a cornerstone initiative aimed at nurturing strong writing abilities, fostering analytical skills, and promoting thoughtful discourse on matters of national significance among Nigerian youth.

The announcement, issued by the Corporate Affairs Department of TREM International Headquarters, marks the official opening of submissions for the 2026 edition.

Competition Details and Prize Structure

The window for essay submissions will be open from March 16, 2026, to June 30, 2026. Participants are expected to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure their entries are considered.

The tiered prize structure is designed to recognize outstanding performance at multiple levels:

• Overall Winner:

  • N800,000 cash prize
  • A laptop
  • A plaque
  • The winner’s school will receive a desktop computer and a plaque.

• First Runner-Up:

  • N500,000 cash prize
  • A laptop
  • A plaque
  • The student’s school will be awarded a desktop computer.

• Second Runner-Up:

  • N400,000 cash prize
  • A laptop
  • A plaque
  • The student’s school will receive a desktop computer.

Bishop Mike Okonkwo, the visionary behind this impactful competition, is the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission, a ministry he has led with dedication for over three decades. His commitment extends beyond spiritual leadership to actively contributing to the intellectual and social development of Nigerian students.

Submission Guidelines and Requirements

Aspiring participants must submit an essay that does not exceed 1,200 words. The essay should be accompanied by comprehensive personal and school details to facilitate identification and verification. These essential details include:

• Full Name
• Location/Address
• Telephone Number
• Class/Age
• School Name and Location
• Principal’s Name
• Principal’s Telephone Number

All submissions are to be directed to the official competition email address: essay@trem.org. For those who prefer a physical submission, hard copies can be delivered to the TREM International Headquarters, located at Anthony Oke Bus Stop, Gbagada, Lagos.

Since its inception in 2004, the Bishop Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition has seen remarkable participation, with over 20,000 students engaging in the contest throughout its history. This enduring legacy underscores the competition’s role as a significant platform for intellectual engagement and a testament to Bishop Okonkwo’s dedication to corporate social responsibility. The initiative aligns with his annual birthday celebrations, providing a valuable opportunity for Nigerian students to hone their writing skills and delve into critical discussions about the nation’s evolving landscape.