Ojedele Jesuferanmi Emmanuel, a 16-year-old 200-level Architecture student from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), has emerged as the winner of the 2024 edition of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) Annual National Undergraduate Essay Competition.
Hailing from Oyo State, Emmanuel clinched the top spot during the 8th award ceremony held at the NCDMB Tower, Ox-Bow Lake, Yenagoa. His victory earned him a ₦1 million cash prize, a brand-new laptop, and a golden plaque.
The second-place position went to Miracle Okoli, a 23-year-old Law student from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State. She was awarded ₦750,000, a brand-new laptop, and a plaque. Okogbe Mary, a 19-year-old Electrical Engineering student from Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State, secured the third position with a prize of ₦500,000, a new laptop, and a plaque.
During the event, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Esueme Dan-Kikile, General Manager of Corporate Communications, praised the participants and emphasized the Board’s commitment to education and capacity-building.
Ogbe highlighted that the essay competition, now in its eighth year, aims to foster intellectual growth and awareness of local content development among Nigerian undergraduates. “This programme aligns with our mandate to build capacity and promote local content as a cornerstone for economic growth, job creation, and national security,” he stated.
He also noted the competition’s role in enhancing essential workplace skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, while promoting awareness of local content’s benefits to the national economy.
The competition, organized by Mahogany 21st Century Concepts Limited, attracted over 2,000 undergraduate participants nationwide. The CEO, Mr. Eyinimi Omorizi, commended the finalists for their dedication and applauded NCDMB for sustaining the initiative to uplift Nigeria’s education standards.
This signature event complements NCDMB’s Science Quiz Competition, further demonstrating its commitment to stimulating interest in STEM education and liberal arts. It underscores the Board’s dedication to preparing Nigerian youths for the demands of the global digital economy.
