The winners of the 2025 National Essay Competition were announced as Vincent Maduka (first place), Loveson Anselm (first runner-up), and Ogunleye Ayomide (second runner-up).
The competition, sponsored by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), focused on national development through the perspective of taxation and reforms, drawing significant participation from young Nigerians.
The event, held on Wednesday, November 26, in Abuja, was organized by Foluso Sylvanus Ojo, publisher of the Abuja City Journal, and highlighted crucial national issues, including tax reforms and the role of youth in the country’s future.
Ojo initiated the competition because he felt hardworking students were underrepresented in national recognition, stating a need to celebrate academic excellence, especially outside the entertainment industry.
Ojo explained, “Our youth should be celebrated for their intellectual achievements. It was heartbreaking when a top graduate was awarded a paltry sum while entertainers were given millions.” He created the competition to support intellectually gifted students.
This year’s theme, “Write the Future,” encouraged participants to explore how tax reforms could shape Nigeria’s economy.
Ojo added, “We are writing towards the future because the topics discussed today, like tax policies, are about Nigeria’s development.” The focus on tax reform directly reflected Nigeria’s changing financial environment, tasking the youth with envisioning a successful national future.
Loveson Anselm, a University of Jos medical student and finalist, expressed his excitement about being selected.
Anselm reflected: “It’s a dream come true. I was in the middle of my professional exams when I saw the notice. I took the chance, researched deeply on tax reforms, and it paid off.”
He also addressed misinformation about the government’s tax reforms, stating, “What I discovered through my research is that the tax reform’s intention is genuine. If fully implemented, it will positively impact Nigeria’s fiscal health.”
The FIRS played a vital role, with Mohamed Adaya Salisu, the Chief Economic Advisor to the FIRS Chairman, emphasizing the importance of educating Nigerian youth on tax administration.
Salisu noted, “The future is bright. The FIRS is committed to funding education and human capital development, which are crucial for Nigeria’s growth.”
The event also featured a speech by Engineer Michael Oluwagbemi, who discussed Nigeria’s potential and challenges.
Oluwagbemi remarked, “Nigeria, with its young population, faces numerous challenges but also immense opportunities,” underscoring the nation’s increasing influence in Africa.
As the event concluded, the finalists were encouraged to pursue their education and continue contributing to nation-building, particularly concerning tax reform.
Anselm encouraged his peers, saying, “Education is not a scam; it pays,” urging them to engage in critical thinking beyond social media discourse.
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