The Asido Foundation has officially opened applications for the 6th Edition of the Jemila Abubakar Memorial Essay Competition (JAME). This annual programme is designed to promote mental health awareness, encourage student advocacy, and support undergraduates who are passionate about emotional wellbeing and career development in Nigeria’s fast-changing work environment.

For 2026, the theme focuses on a deeply relevant issue for every young Nigerian student:
“Mental Health and Career Adaptability in a Dynamic Work Environment.”

This competition is not just an essay contest — it is a powerful learning experience that offers students a chance to raise their voice, win financial support, and join a national network of youth mental health advocates.

H3: About the Jemila Abubakar Memorial Essay Competition

The JAME competition was created in honour of Jemila Abubakar, a strong mental health advocate and former project officer at the Asido Foundation. Each year, the foundation invites undergraduates across Nigeria to write essays that highlight the importance of mental wellbeing, resilience, and positive youth development.

The initiative has grown into one of Nigeria’s most respected youth-led mental health competitions, attracting thousands of entries from students in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

H3: Eligibility Criteria for 2026

The competition is open to students who meet the following conditions:

• You must be an undergraduate in any accredited tertiary institution in Nigeria.
• You must be able to provide proof of studentship (ID card or school verification).
• You must sign the Asido Foundation’s Unashamed Pledge, which encourages open conversations about mental health.
  👉 Pledge link: https://asidofoundation.com/unashamed/

The goal is to bring together young Nigerians who understand the importance of mental wellbeing and are ready to share ideas that can influence change.

H3: Entry Guidelines (Read Carefully Before Submitting)

To ensure fairness, the foundation has given strict instructions for the 2026 entry:

• Your essay must be between 750 and 1500 words.
• Your writing must connect with the theme:
  Mental Health and Career Adaptability in a Dynamic Work Environment.
• You must upload:
  – A scanned passport photograph
  – Proof of studentship
  – Certificate of signing the Asido Unashamed pledge

All entries must be submitted through the official portal:
👉 Submit here: https://bit.ly/JAME2026

This is the only valid submission link for the 2026 edition.

H3: Prizes for the Top Winners

The competition rewards the top three writers with monetary prizes and further support:

• 1st Prize — ₦200,000
• 2nd Prize — ₦150,000
• 3rd Prize — ₦100,000

Beyond the cash reward, the top 15 finalists will receive certificates and be enrolled as JAME 2026 Fellows, a special mentorship track under the Asido Foundation’s mental health development network.

Winners will be announced in January 2026 during the foundation’s Interactive Monthly Community Engagement Series (IMCE).

H3: Deadline for Submission

All entries must be submitted before 11:59 PM WAT on December 14th, 2025.

Late submissions will not be considered, so students are advised to write and prepare their documents early.

H3: Why You Should Apply

This competition is more than an essay — it is a valuable opportunity for Nigerian students to:

• Develop strong writing and critical-thinking skills
• Gain national visibility for their ideas
• Get mentorship in mental health advocacy
• Strengthen their academic and career profile
• Earn financial support to ease school expenses

H3: How to Apply Successfully (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1 — Read the theme carefully
Understand how mental health connects to career growth, self-awareness, workplace stress, and adaptability.

Step 2 — Research
Use reliable sources, case studies, personal observations, or relatable student experiences.

Step 3 — Draft your essay
Start strong, organize your ideas clearly, and use evidence or examples that reflect Nigeria’s real environment.

Step 4 — Edit and proofread
Remove errors, refine your arguments, and create a smooth flow.

Step 5 — Prepare all required documents
Make sure your photo, student ID, and pledge certificate are clear.

Step 6 — Submit via the official link
Check your email for confirmation after submission.

H3: FAQs About the JAME 2026 Essay Competition

1. Can polytechnic students apply?
Yes. Any undergraduate in a Nigerian tertiary institution can participate.

2. Is there an application fee?
No, the competition is completely free.

3. Can I submit more than one essay?
No, only one entry per student is allowed.

4. Must the essay be original?
Yes. Plagiarized work leads to automatic disqualification.

5. When will winners be announced?
January 2026 during the IMCE programme.

Final Thoughts

The Jemila Abubakar Memorial Essay Competition 2026 is a meaningful opportunity for students who want to advocate for mental health and strengthen their academic and career journey. With attractive prizes, nationwide recognition, and access to mentorship, this competition offers more than just financial reward — it gives young Nigerians a platform to speak about one of the most important topics of our generation.