08/04/2026
Announcing NEMA 2026 National Essay Competition
Today, the National Emergency Management Agency is pleased to launch a National Essay Competition designed to engage young Nigerians in an issue that affects every community—disaster preparedness, emergency response, and national resilience.
Across our country, floods, fires, building collapses, and other emergencies remind us that disasters do not give notice. Experience has taught us that preparedness saves lives, and awareness is the foundation of preparedness. This competition is therefore not just about writing essays; it is about shaping how young Nigerians think about risk, responsibility, and collective action.
The competition is open to secondary school students, students of tertiary institutions, and our National Youth Service Corps – Emergency Management Vanguards (NYSC-EMVs) across Nigeria.
For secondary school students, the topic is “My Role in Disaster Risk Reduction,” and it is intended to help young students reflect on their personal responsibility, the importance of preparation, and the power of community action during emergencies.
For tertiary institution students, the topic is, “Climate Change and Disaster Management in Nigeria,” and for the NYSC-EMVs, the topic to be explored is, “Technology for Disaster Response: Opportunities and Challenges.” These areas invite deeper analysis of policy, innovation, and long-term strategies for managing disaster risks in a changing world.
Essays for secondary school students should not exceed 500 words, while entries from tertiary students and the NYSC-EMVs should not be more than 1000 words. Submissions will be assessed on relevance, originality, and clarity by experts drawn from institutions specialising in disaster risk management and development communications experts.
Outstanding contributions will be rewarded. The best essay in each category will receive ₦500,000 and a trophy, while the first runner-up will receive ₦300,000 each and the second runner-up will receive N200, 000 each. The top ten entries in each category will also receive certificates and recognition.
The competition opens today, April 1, and closes on April 15, with winners to be announced subsequently.
This initiative reflects our belief that emergency management is a shared responsibility. When young people are informed and engaged, communities become safer and more resilient.
I therefore encourage students across Nigeria to participate actively, schools and institutions to support them, and the media to help amplify this important national conversation.
Together, we can build a safer, more prepared, and more resilient Nigeria.
