UN SDSN Youth Nigeria National Essay Competition 2025 | Prize ₦1 Million

Posted April 30, 2026

Job Description

The United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Nigeria, in collaboration with The Sterling Team, invites passionate senior secondary school students across Nigeria to apply for the 2025 National Essay Competition — a creative platform designed to empower young Nigerians to become changemakers for the environment and climate action.

This nationwide competition encourages students to think critically about the environmental challenges in their communities and propose innovative, sustainable solutions that drive growth and resilience. It’s more than just a writing contest — it’s an opportunity to inspire real change and contribute to Nigeria’s green transition.

Essay Topic

“Turning Climate Challenges in My Community into Opportunities for Growth.”

Why It Matters

Nigeria’s youth are at the heart of the nation’s sustainability journey. This competition helps secondary school students recognize that environmental challenges can become catalysts for innovation, leadership, and community development.

By participating, students will strengthen their ability to use their voices, creativity, and critical thinking to promote sustainable change — starting right where it matters most: their communities.

Eligibility Criteria

Open to students currently in SS1 to SS3.
Applicants must be enrolled in a public or government-owned secondary school in Nigeria.
Only one entry per student or school is permitted.
Application forms must include accurate contact details of the student’s teacher or principal for verification purposes.

Submission Guidelines

Essays must be typed, original, and not exceed 1,000 words.
AI-generated or plagiarized content will result in immediate disqualification.
Applicants must record and submit a 2–3 minute video presentation summarizing their essay as proof of authorship.
Videos should be recorded in portrait (vertical) format, with clear sound and visuals.

Benefits

₦1,000,000 cash prize for the overall winner.
National recognition as a young environmental advocate.
Feature opportunity during National Sustainability Week 2025.
Mentorship and visibility among leading sustainability and climate action organizations in Nigeria.

Tips for Applicants

Focus on a real issue within your community — make your story local and relatable.
Propose practical, creative, and achievable solutions.
Keep your writing clear, persuasive, and original.
Record your video confidently, speaking with passion and clarity.
Submit before the deadline and double-check all details before submission.

Application Deadline: November 14, 2025 (11:59 PM WAT)

Apply here

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