16-year-old wins UBA Foundation essay competition

A 16-year-old student of Everest Heights Int’l Academy, Gwagwalada-Abuja, Tehilah Isimah, has emerged as the overall winner of the 14th edition of the National Essay Competition of UBA Foundation.

Isimah emerged the winner at the grand finale of the contest, which was held in UBA House on Tuesday.

The NEC is organised by the UBA Foundation, which is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the United Bank for Africa Group. It is aimed at showcasing the brightest minds among senior secondary school students across Nigeria.

Isimah clinched the highly coveted prize of a N7.5m educational grant, which will support her university education at any African institution of her choice.

While receiving her winning grant, trophy, certificate, and other gifts, Isimah said, “I am so happy; I prayed and worked so hard for this; even though I am a science student, I have always loved writing. I am very glad this dream of mine came true. UBA Foundation, this is answered prayers for me; I will forever be grateful.”

Isimah’s mother, who was also at the event, said, “I can’t believe this is happening; thank you, UBA Foundation; this is indeed a dream come true for us; I am so happy.”

Obinna-Chukwu Christabel of Regina Pacis College, Abuja, came second to win an N5m grant, and Essien Greatness of the Nigerian Christian Institute, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, clinched the third position with an N3.5m grant.