NEMA Names 30 Winners Of 2026 National Essay Competition

The topics were designed to encourage participants to examine disaster management from the perspectives of prevention, climate-related risks and technological innovation in emergency response.

Bello said the competition provided an avenue for young Nigerians to explore practical approaches to disaster risk reduction and emergency management while developing their research and analytical skills.

NEMA Emphasises Preparedness And Shared Responsibility

The consultant congratulated the winners, who received cash prizes, plaques and certificates, while also recognising the efforts of finalists and other participants.

He stressed that the significance of the competition extended beyond the identification and reward of winners, arguing that its broader objective was to cultivate a generation with greater awareness of disaster preparedness.

“The ultimate value of this competition is not merely in identifying winners, but in building a generation that understands that disaster management begins before disaster strikes with awareness, prevention, preparedness and shared responsibility,” he said.

The 2026 competition therefore provided a platform for students and corps members to engage with issues that affect disaster preparedness and response across Nigeria.

NEMA said the high volume of entries demonstrated growing interest among young Nigerians in disaster risk reduction and related issues.

The agency’s emphasis on a rigorous assessment process was also presented as part of its effort to ensure that recognition was based on merit and that participants were evaluated through a transparent process.

With the winners now recognised, NEMA is expected to continue using youth-focused initiatives such as the essay competition to promote disaster awareness, preparedness and resilience among young Nigerians.

The agency maintained that building a culture of prevention and preparedness remains essential to reducing the impact of disasters and strengthening community resilience across the country.