16-Year-Old Wins UBA Foundation Essay Competition
Tehilah Isimah recieving her Trophy. Photo Credit: UBA Foundation
Tehilah Isimah, a 16-year-old student of Everest Heights International Academy, Gwagwalada, Abuja, has been crowned the overall winner of the 14th UBA Foundation National Essay Competition (NEC). The grand finale took place at UBA House on Tuesday, where Isimah triumphed over other finalists with her exceptional writing skills. The NEC, organized by the UBA Foundation—the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the United Bank for Africa Group—aims to identify and nurture the brightest minds among senior secondary school students across Nigeria.
An Educational Grant Worth Millions
Isimah received a coveted N7.5 million educational grant to support her university education at any African institution of her choice. Overwhelmed with joy, she expressed gratitude, stating, “I prayed and worked hard for this. Though I am a science student, I have always loved writing. UBA Foundation, this is an answered prayer for me.” Her mother, equally ecstatic, described the win as a dream come true, thanking UBA Foundation for the life-changing opportunity.
Recognizing Other Talented Finalists
Obinna-Chukwu Christabel of Regina Pacis College, Abuja, claimed the second position, securing an N5 million educational grant, while Essien Greatness from the Nigerian Christian Institute, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, finished third with an N3.5 million grant. All 20 regional finalists received brand-new laptops and other gifts for their outstanding efforts.
A Catalyst for Education and Social Change
UBA Group’s Managing Director/CEO, Oliver Alawuba, emphasized the bank’s commitment to education, stating, “Knowledge is the most powerful catalyst for transformative change.” He reiterated the foundation’s mission to empower young minds as agents of societal progress. Bola Atta, the MD/CEO of UBA Foundation, lauded the competition’s increased participation, particularly from northern Nigeria. She praised the quality and creativity of this year’s entries, which addressed the topic: “The Impact of Carbon Emission on Climate Change in Nigeria: Challenges and Solutions.
Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela.
Tehilah Isimah with the 1st and 2nd runner Up. Photo Credit:UBA Foundation
Record-Breaking Participation
The 2024 NEC marked a milestone, recording over 10,000 entries. This growth highlights the competition’s influence in nurturing talent and inspiring students to tackle pressing societal issues through innovative ideas. UBA Foundation’s dedication to fostering education and sustainable development continues to impact the lives of young Nigerians, shaping a brighter future for the continent.
In conclusion, the UBA Foundation National Essay Competition continues to serve as a beacon of hope for young Nigerians, encouraging them to channel their creativity and intellect toward addressing critical societal issues. By investing in education and providing life-changing opportunities, the foundation reaffirms its commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders. Tehilah Isimah’s remarkable victory and the record-breaking participation highlight the immense potential within Nigeria’s youth, proving that with the right support, they can transform challenges into innovative solutions for a better future.
