In a bid to promote excellence in writing and responsible journalism among Nigerian youths, the Citizens Advocacy for Social and Economic Rights (CASER) has launched a National Secondary School Essay Competition in honour of media mogul, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, CON, Chairman of ThisDay/ARISE Media Group.
The annual competition, according to CASER, is aimed at fostering critical thinking, strong writing skills, ethical communication, and a commitment to truth among secondary school students across the country. It celebrates the enduring legacy of Prince Obaigbena, whose contributions have shaped journalism and broadcasting across the African continent.
Speaking during the launch, CASER emphasized that the initiative come at a time when the global media landscape is increasingly challenged by misinformation and the erosion of ethical values in communication. The competition is expected to reorient young minds towards the core principles of integrity, clarity, and accuracy in public discourse.
Submissions will be reviewed and judged by Professor Abiodun Adeniyi, a renowned Professor of Communication and Registrar of Baze University, Abuja. The evaluation criteria were developed by Professor Sunny Awhefada of the Department of English and Literary Studies, Delta State University, Abraka.
The top three winners of the competition will receive cash prizes of ₦500,000, ₦300,000, and ₦200,000 respectively. The winners will be announced on July 14, 2025, a date which coincides with the birthday of Prince Nduka Obaigbena.
The maiden edition of the essay competition is exclusive to students of Government College Ughelli (GCU)—the alma mater of Prince Obaigbena. To ensure effective execution, a Local Organising Committee (LOC) made up of GCU alumni has been constituted. Members included Mike Akoreh (Chairman), Efe Onomake (Alternate Chairman), Charles Umuakpero (Secretary), Oghenevwoke Edjere, Sunny Ahanmisi, and Anthony Mukoro.
The LOC is expected to begin work immediately to coordinate all activities leading up to the award ceremony.
The initiative is jointly endorsed by Otunba Gbenga Onayiga, Chairman, Board of Trustees of CASER, and Frank Tietie, Esq., Executive Director of the organization.
