Entries are now open for the 2026 edition of the Bishop Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition, inviting secondary school students across Nigeria to participate and compete for cash prizes and educational rewards.

According to a statement from the Corporate Affairs Department of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) International Headquarters in Lagos, submissions officially opened on March 16 and will close on June 30.

This year’s essay topic is “Democracy at the crossroads: Electoral credibility, judicial integrity and the future of Nigeria.” The theme encourages students to critically examine key national issues and contribute thoughtful perspectives through writing.

Participants are required to submit their essays via email or deliver hard copies to the TREM International Headquarters located in Gbagada, Lagos.

The competition offers attractive rewards for top performers. The overall winner will receive ₦800,000, a laptop, and a plaque, while the winner’s school will be awarded a desktop computer and a plaque. The first runner-up will receive ₦500,000, a laptop, and a plaque, while the second runner-up will get ₦400,000, a laptop, and a plaque. Their respective schools will also receive desktop computers in recognition of their achievement.

The annual competition, which began in 2004, aims to develop students’ writing abilities, enhance critical thinking skills, and encourage active engagement with national issues through academic expression. Over the years, it has attracted more than 20,000 participants, becoming a major platform for intellectual discourse among Nigerian students.

The initiative forms part of the educational and social impact efforts led by Mike Okonkwo, whose contributions extend beyond the competition. Through the Empowerment for the Less Privileged Foundation, he supports disadvantaged individuals with programmes such as vocational training, scholarships, healthcare support, and awareness campaigns.

In collaboration with his wife, he also promotes social welfare through initiatives that provide free medical screenings and essential support for women, particularly those in underserved communities.

The competition continues to serve as a valuable opportunity for young Nigerians to showcase their ideas, develop academic skills, and contribute meaningfully to discussions about the nation’s future.