The United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Nigeria, in collaboration with The Sterling Team, is calling on all passionate senior secondary school students to apply for the 2025 National Essay Competition — a creative platform that empowers young Nigerians to become changemakers for the environment and climate action.
This nationwide essay competition encourages students to think critically about the environmental challenges in their communities and propose innovative solutions that promote sustainability and growth. It’s more than just a writing contest — it’s an opportunity to inspire real change and shape the future of Nigeria’s green transition.
Essay Topic
“Turning Climate Challenges in My Community into Opportunities for Growth.”
Why It Matters
Nigeria’s young people are at the center of the country’s sustainability journey. This competition helps secondary school students discover how environmental problems can become platforms for innovation, leadership, and community development. By participating, students will gain the confidence to use their voices, creativity, and critical thinking to promote sustainable change where it matters most — in their communities.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to students currently in SS1 to SS3.
- Applicants must be enrolled in a public or government-owned school in Nigeria.
- Only one entry per student or school is allowed.
- The application form must include accurate contact details of the student’s teacher or principal for verification.
Submission Guidelines
- Essays must be typed, original, and not exceed 1,000 words.
- AI-generated or plagiarized content will lead to immediate disqualification.
- Applicants must record and submit a 2–3 minute video presentation of their essay as proof of authorship.
- Videos should be portrait (vertical) with clear sound and visuals.
Benefits
- Winners will receive a cash prize of ₦1 million.
- National recognition and exposure for outstanding young environmental advocates.
- Opportunity to be featured during National Sustainability Week 2025.
- Mentorship and visibility among leading sustainability organizations in Nigeria.
Tips for Applicants
- Focus on a real issue in your community, make your story local and relatable.
- Propose practical, creative ideas that can make a difference.
- Keep your writing clear, persuasive, and original.
- Record your video confidently, speak with passion and clarity.
- Submit before the deadline and double-check all your details.
Submission Deadline: November 14, 2025 (11:59 PM WAT)
APPLY HERE