Fisayo Soyombo Inter-Varsity Essay Competition 2026

University of Ibadan Union of Campus Journalists (UCJ) has opened applications for the 9th edition of the Fisayo Soyombo Inter-Varsity Essay Competition.

The competition invites students to examine the relationship between elections and democracy in Nigeria, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

Participants can explore whether elections genuinely reflect the will of the people, strengthen democratic institutions and promote accountability, or whether deeper political and institutional challenges prevent elections from delivering meaningful democratic outcomes.

To participate in the 9th Annual Fisayo Soyombo Inter-Varsity Essay Competition, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements stated in the official flyer.

1. Be an undergraduate student enrolled in a Nigerian university.

2. Provide a valid school identity card

3. Write on the approved topic

4. Follow the prescribed essay format

Essay Topic and Writing Guidelines

The topic for the 2026 competition is:

“2027 and Beyond: Do Elections Still Deliver Democracy for Nigerians?”

The topic invites participants to examine the effectiveness of elections in delivering democratic governance in Nigeria.

Word Count

The essay must contain between 1500 and 2000 words.

Formatting Requirements

The essay entry should be formatted as follows;

• Font: Times New Roman

• Font size: 12

• Line spacing: 1.5

1. Cash prizes worth up to ₦400,000

The competition offers cash prizes to the top three entries:

• First place: ₦400,000

• Second place: ₦300,000

• Third place: ₦200,000

These prizes reward outstanding essays and provide financial incentives for students to engage in research, political analysis and public-interest writing.

2. Opportunity to demonstrate writing skills

Participants can demonstrate their ability to develop a clear argument, organise ideas logically, conduct research and communicate complex political issues effectively.

These skills are useful for students interested in journalism, communications, public policy, political science, law, international relations and related fields.

3. Engagement with Nigeria’s democratic future

The competition encourages undergraduate students to think critically about elections, political participation, democratic institutions, and governance in Nigeria.

By examining the topic, participants can contribute thoughtful perspectives to discussions about the country’s political future.

4. Recognition for outstanding work

The competition provides an opportunity for students to have their writing assessed against that of participants from other universities in Nigeria.

Successful entrants can earn recognition for their analytical ability and written contributions to an important national discussion.

The flyer does not specify additional benefits such as certificates, publication opportunities or participation fees.

Send your completed essay and school ID card to: ucjunibadan@gmail.com

Use a clear subject line, such as Fisayo Soyombo Inter-Varsity Essay Competition 2026 – [Your Full Name]. This is a suggested subject line, not an official requirement stated on the flyer.