2026 Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition – Applications are hereby invited for the Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition for Secondary School Students (Topic: Nigeria, a Country at War: The Problem, Solutions and the Way Forward)
Details on Mike Okonkwo 17th National Essay Competition
Application Deadline: May 20, 2026
Eligible Countries: Nigeria
Type: Essay
Value of Award:
1st Position:
- N100,000 + Laptop (Student)
- 3 sets of PC (School).
2nd Position:
- N75,000 (Student)
- 2 set of PC (School).
3rd Position:
- N50,000 (Student)
- A set of PC (School).
Eligibility:
- Applicants must be Nigerians
- Applicants must be Secondary School Students
Entry Requirements
- Maximum of 2000 words
- Name of student, class, e-mail, contact phone number and his/her recent passport photograph
- Name of school and detailed address (including Name of Principal and phone number)
- Essay should be clearly typed
Application Process: Interested and qualified applicant should send their entries to: essay@trem.org
Or
The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM),
International Headquarters,
Obanikoro/ Anthony-Oke Bus Stop,
Lagos State.
Note: Essay should be original; avoid plagiarism.
FAQs
1. What is the 2026 Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition?
The 2026 Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition is an annual academic contest organized by the Mike Okonkwo Foundation. It is designed for secondary school students in Nigeria to encourage critical thinking, research, and effective writing skills. The competition also promotes moral values and intellectual development among young students.
2. Who is eligible to participate in the competition?
The competition is open to all Senior Secondary School (SS1–SS3) students in Nigeria, regardless of whether they attend public or private schools. Participants must submit original essays and typically need a school endorsement or verification from their principal.
3. What are the requirements for essay submission?
Participants are required to:
- Write an original essay on the approved competition topic
- Adhere to the specified word count (usually around 1,200–1,500 words)
- Include personal details such as name, school, and contact information
- Submit entries before the official deadline
Plagiarism is strictly prohibited, and all entries are carefully reviewed for originality.
4. What prizes are awarded to winners of the competition?
Winners of the competition receive cash prizes, laptops, certificates, and educational materials. In some cases, their schools are also rewarded with recognition or support materials. The competition is highly prestigious and can significantly boost a student’s academic profile