Jemila Abubakar Essay Competition 2026 opens with ₦450,000 prizes for Nigerian Students: How to Apply
2026 Jemila Abubakar Essay Competition launches for Nigerian students.
The Asido Foundation has officially opened applications for the 2026 Jemila Abubakar Memorial Essay Competition, an annual mental health–themed writing challenge dedicated to Nigerian undergraduates. The competition, which honours the late Jemila Abubakar, founder of the Asido Foundation who passed away in 2020, aims to promote mental health awareness through evidence-based discussions led by young scholars.
With a total prize pool of ₦450,000, mentorship opportunities, and national visibility, the competition remains one of Nigeria’s most impactful student-driven mental health advocacy platforms.
A Legacy Built on Mental Health Advocacy
The Asido Foundation, a leading mental health nonprofit organisation, established the essay competition to sustain its founder’s vision. Jemila Abubakar championed improved access to mental healthcare and the protection of human dignity for individuals with mental disorders. The Foundation continues this mission by empowering students to research, write, and communicate solutions that can advance mental health awareness in Nigeria.
The Foundation maintains its stance that mental illness should carry no shame, stigma, or discrimination, a central message that participants are encouraged to reflect in their essays.
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Theme for 2026: Mental Health and Career Adaptability
The selected theme for the 2026 edition is:
“Mental Health and Career Adaptability in a Dynamic Work Environment.”
This topic encourages students to explore how Nigeria’s rapidly changing job landscape affects psychological well-being, stress resilience, and the ability to navigate unpredictable work environments. It also challenges participants to propose modern solutions for personal and organisational mental health support.
Eligibility Requirements for the 2026 Jemila Abubakar Essay Competition
To participate, applicants must meet all requirements below:
- Be an undergraduate student in any accredited Nigerian tertiary institution
- Provide valid evidence of studentship
- Sign the Asido Foundation’s Unashamed Pledge via asidofoundation.com/unashamed
- Submit an original essay between 750 and 1500 words
- Avoid plagiarism or AI-generated content, which leads to instant disqualification
These requirements ensure fairness, originality, and commitment to mental health advocacy.
Rewards for Winners: Cash Prizes + Fellowship Mentorship
The competition will reward the top 15 applicants, offering both financial prizes and professional mentorship:
- 1st Prize: ₦200,000
- 2nd Prize: ₦150,000
- 3rd Prize: ₦100,000
- Top 15 participants receive certificates and become mentees under the JAME 2025 Fellowship Program.
Winners will be officially announced during the January 2026 Interactive Monthly Community Engagement Series (IMCE).
Entry Guidelines: What Applicants Must Submit
Applicants are required to:
- Write an essay within the 750–1500 word limit
- Submit entries through the official application link
- Attach a passport photograph, proof of studentship, and signed Unashamed Pledge certificate
- Ensure their essay is fully original and not AI-generated
These conditions maintain the competition’s academic integrity and commitment to authentic storytelling.
How to Apply for the 2026 Jemila Abubakar Memorial Essay Competition
Interested students can apply by visiting the official submission portal via the provided link and uploading all required documents.
Deadline: December 14, 2025
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute submission challenges.
FAQ
1. What is the Jemila Abubakar Essay Competition?
It is an annual mental health–focused essay competition organised by the Asido Foundation for Nigerian undergraduates. The competition honours Jemila Abubakar, a mental health advocate and founder of the Foundation.
2. Who can apply for the 2026 edition?
Only undergraduate students enrolled in Nigerian tertiary institutions are eligible. Applicants must also provide proof of studentship and sign the Asido “Unashamed Pledge.”
3. What is the theme for the 2026 competition?
The official theme is “Mental Health and Career Adaptability in a Dynamic Work Environment.”
4. How much is the prize for the competition?
A total of ₦450,000 is available:
₦200,000 for first place, ₦150,000 for second, and ₦100,000 for third place. The top 15 also receive certificates and mentorship.
5. What is the essay word count requirement?
Essays must be between 750 and 1500 words. Submissions below or above this limit may be disqualified.
6. Can I use AI tools to write my essay?
No. AI-generated essays or plagiarism will lead to automatic disqualification.
7. When is the deadline for submission?
The deadline is December 14, 2025. Late entries will not be considered.
8. How do I apply for the Jemila Abubakar Essay Competition?
Applicants must submit their essays and required documents through the official online portal linked on the Asido Foundation.
9. What documents do I need to submit?
You must attach a passport photo, proof of studentship, and your signed Unashamed Pledge certificate.
10. When will winners be announced?
Winners will be revealed during the January 2026 Interactive Monthly Community Engagement Series (IMCE).
