Nigeria’s Asido Foundation Launches 6th Jemila Abubakar Memorial Essay Competition
The Asido Foundation has officially opened entries for the 6th edition of the Jemila Abubakar Memorial Essay (JAME) Competition, a national mental health writing contest aimed at undergraduate students across Nigeria.
The competition invites young writers in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education to submit thoughtful essays on mental wellbeing, resilience, and support for young people.
About the JAME Competition
Founded in memory of Jemila Abubakar, a dedicated mental health advocate and former project officer at the Asido Foundation, the JAME Competition has become one of Nigeria’s leading youth-driven mental health initiatives. Thousands of students nationwide have participated since its inception, sharing insights that promote mental health awareness and advocacy.
Why Students Should Apply
Participating in JAME 2026 offers students the chance to:
- Strengthen writing and critical thinking skills
- Reach a national audience with their ideas
- Receive guidance in mental health advocacy
- Enhance academic and professional profiles
- Gain financial support for education
2026 Theme: Mental Health and Career Adaptability
The theme for 2026 addresses a critical challenge facing Nigerian students: how mental health impacts career adaptability in a fast-evolving work environment. Essays should explore workplace stress, emotional resilience, and the skills required for professional growth. Students are encouraged to connect mental health discussions to study plans, career choices, and practical work settings.
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in JAME 2026, applicants must:
- Be an undergraduate student at any accredited tertiary institution in Nigeria
- Provide valid proof of studentship (e.g., student ID card or official confirmation)
- Sign the Asido Foundation’s Unashamed Pledge, promoting open discussion about mental health
The pledge can be signed online via the Asido Foundation Unashamed Pledge page.
Entry Guidelines
Students must follow these submission rules:
- Essay length: 750–1,500 words
- Essay must directly address the 2026 theme
- Required documents:
- Scanned passport photograph
- Proof of studentship
- Certificate of pledge completion
- All entries must be submitted through the official JAME 2026 entry form
How to Apply
Step 1: Understand the theme – connect mental health to career development and workplace challenges.
Step 2: Research – use credible sources, real-life examples, and personal experiences.
Step 3: Draft – organize a clear introduction, coherent body, and strong conclusion.
Step 4: Edit and proofread – check for grammar, clarity, and flow.
Step 5: Prepare documents – ensure scans of all required files are legible.
Step 6: Submit – upload essays and documents via the official entry form and confirm submission via email.
Submission Deadline
All entries must be received by 11:59 PM WAT on December 14th, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted. Early preparation is encouraged to allow ample time for writing, reviewing, and uploading.
Awards and Recognition
The competition offers cash prizes for the top three essays:
- 1st Prize: ₦200,000
- 2nd Prize: ₦150,000
- 3rd Prize: ₦100,000
Additionally, the top 15 finalists will receive certificates and be inducted as JAME 2026 Fellows, gaining access to the Asido Foundation’s mentorship program. Winners will be announced in January 2026 during the foundation’s Interactive Monthly Community Engagement Series (IMCE).
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