National Essay Competition (NEC) 2026
The organisers of the National Essay Competition (NEC) have officially announced the launch of Season 4, calling on young Nigerians to showcase their intellectual rigour, analytical skills, and policy awareness by engaging with one of the country’s most critical economic concerns.
This year’s edition centres on taxation and governance. Participants are required to write on the topic:
“Analyze the challenges faced by the Nigerian Revenue Service in the implementation of the new tax laws and propose practical solutions to address them.”
NEC Season 4 aims to foster critical thinking among young Nigerians while encouraging informed discussion on public finance, accountability, and sustainable national development.
Essay Topic
Analyze the challenges faced by the Nigerian Revenue Service in the implementation of the new tax laws and propose practical solutions to address them.
National Essay Competition (NEC) – Benefits, Requirements, and Guidelines
Benefits
Winners of the National Essay Competition (NEC) Season 4 will receive attractive cash prizes as follows:
Winners of the National Essay Competition (NEC) Season 4 will receive attractive cash rewards, with ₦5 million awarded to the winner, ₦3 million to the first runner-up, and ₦2 million to the second runner-up.
Eligibility Requirements
The competition is open to Nigerians between the ages of 20 and 35, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to participate.
Selection Process
Submissions will be evaluated based on originality, depth of analysis, clarity of argument, and relevance to the essay topic.
Essay Submission Guidelines
Essays must be 1,000–1,500 words in length, typed in Times New Roman (font size 12), double-spaced, written in English only, submitted in PDF format, and must be original work with proper referencing.
Note
Late submissions will not be accepted, any form of plagiarism will lead to automatic disqualification, each participant is permitted only one entry, and applicants must ensure that all personal information provided is accurate and complete.
How to Apply
Interested participants are advised to prepare diligently and submit strong, well-crafted essays, as this edition is set to be one of the most intellectually stimulating in the history of the competition.

