The Jemila Abubakar Essay Competition is an annual national contest open to Nigerian undergraduates to promote meaningful discussions around mental health.
The competition honours Jemila Abubakar, founder of the Asido Foundation, who passed away in 2020 after a brief illness. This edition awards a total of ₦450,000, certificates, and mentorship opportunities to the top 15 finalists.
Scholarship Summary
- Host: Asido Foundation
- Category: Competitions
- Eligible Countries: Nigeria
- Reward: ₦450,000 Prizes | Certification | Mentorship
- No IELTS Required
- Deadline: December 14, 2025
Scholarship Details
The Asido Foundation is a non-profit mental health advocacy organisation committed to providing evidence-based information, tailored interventions, and advocacy strategies to address Nigeria’s significant mental health needs. The foundation is driven by the belief that individuals with mental health challenges deserve access to proper care, dignity, and acceptance—free from stigma or discrimination.
The organisation envisions a society where every Nigerian enjoys optimal mental health regardless of socioeconomic background, age, gender, or beliefs. The 2026 theme for the Jemila Abubakar Essay Competition is:
“Mental Health and Career Adaptability in a Dynamic Work Environment.”
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Asido Foundation Essay Competition, applicants must:
- Be an undergraduate student in any accredited higher institution in Nigeria
- Be able to submit valid evidence of studentship
- Sign the Asido Foundation Unashamed Pledge
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants for the Jemila Abubakar Essay Competition 2026 will receive:
- Top 15 Finalists: Certificates and admission into the JAME 2025 Fellowship Programme
- 1st Place: ₦200,000
- 2nd Place: ₦150,000
- 3rd Place: ₦100,000
- Winners will be announced in the January 2026 edition of the Interactive Monthly Community Engagement Series (IMCE)
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents for submission:
- Recent passport photograph
- Evidence of studentship
- Certificate of signing the Unashamed Pledge
Entry Guidelines
To participate, candidates must:
- Submit an essay between 750 and 1500 words
- Upload all required documents along with the essay
- Ensure originality, as AI-generated entries or plagiarism will lead to immediate disqualification
How to Apply
To apply for the Jemila Abubakar Essay Competition 2026:
- Visit the official submission link
- Submit your essay and required documents
- Await further communication from the foundation
To apply for this program, click HERE
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