ESSAY COMPETITION 2026

About the Competition

The Kiriji Heritage Conservation Foundation, in partnership with Roving Heights, invites young Nigerians to participate in an essay competition commemorating the 140th Anniversary of the Kiriji Peace Treaty.

The competition seeks to encourage historical research, critical thinking, cultural awareness and reflection on the relevance of the Kiriji peace process to peacebuilding, unity and national development today.

Who Can Apply?

The competition is open to Nigerian students and young people who meet the eligibility requirements.

Eligibility

– Applicant must be a Nigerian citizen.
– Applicant must be a student of a tertiary institution in Nigeria.
– Each participant may submit one essay only.
– The essay must be the applicant’s original work.
– Previous winning entries from other competitions are not eligible.
– Entries must be submitted within the stipulated application period.

Essay Requirements

Topic: 140 Years of Peace, Unity and Yoruba Heritage: Lessons from the Kiriji Peace Treaty for Contemporary Nigeria

Word Count: 1,500–2,000 words

The essay should demonstrate:

– Understanding of the Kiriji War and Peace Treaty.
– Knowledge of Yoruba history and heritage.
– Critical analysis rather than mere narration.
– Lessons that can be applied to contemporary Nigeria.
– Originality of thought and expression.
– Proper Referencing

Prizes

🥇 1st Prize — ₦200,000

🥈 2nd Prize — ₦150,000

🥉 3rd Prize — ₦100,000

Outstanding participants may also receive certificates and recognition.

How to Apply

Click here to submit the application

Submission Guidelines

– Submit the essay in Microsoft Word (.doc/.docx) or PDF format.
– Use a clear, readable font.
– Include your name and contact details as requested on the application form.
– Ensure the essay is original and properly referenced.
– Plagiarised or AI-generated submissions will be disqualified.
– Late submissions will not be considered.

Important Dates

Application Opens: August 24th 2026
Submission Deadline: September 7,2026
Shortlisted Entries: September 15, 2026
Winners Announced: September 18,2026
Award Presentation: September 21 2026

Organised by:
Kiriji Heritage Conservation Foundation in Partnership With: Roving Heights