Introduction
In a significant move to engage Nigerian youth in addressing critical national challenges, the Umaru Shinkafi Legacy Foundation (USLF) has officially announced the 1st USLF Essay Competition under the auspices of the Shinkafi Intelligence & Security Summit (SISS). This groundbreaking initiative is aimed at spotlighting the socio-economic implications of kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria, a theme that reflects one of the nation’s most pressing issues.
With total prizes amounting to ₦1.8 million and eligibility limited to indigenes of Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states, the competition offers a unique platform for young intellectuals to propose solutions, narrate experiences, and influence national discourse.
Theme of the Essay Competition
“Socio-Economic Implications of Kidnapping and Banditry in Nigeria”
This theme calls for deep analytical writing that examines how widespread insecurity affects:
- Education
- Agriculture
- Investment
- Community migration
- Mental health
- Economic stagnation
- National development
Writers are expected to go beyond narratives and explore measurable impacts, supported by data, theory, and possible policy responses.
Guidelines for Participation
To ensure a fair and structured process, USLF has issued the following participation rules:
- Eligibility:
- Must be an indigene of Sokoto, Kebbi, or Zamfara state.
- Must be enrolled in any Nigerian tertiary institution.
- Age range: 16 to 25 years.
- Essay Format:
- Word count: 1000 to 1300 words
- Font: Times New Roman
- Font size: 12 pt
- Spacing: 1.5 line spacing
- File format: PDF only
- Submission Requirements:
- Must include a valid means of identification
- All essays will undergo plagiarism checks
- Submission Deadline:
- 27th June 2025
- Result Announcement:
- Winners will be revealed on 6th July 2025 during the 9th remembrance anniversary of Late Marafan Sokoto, Alhaji Umaru Ali Shinkaf
Prize Breakdown
The Foundation is offering substantial monetary rewards to recognize the best essays:
| Position | Prize Amount |
|---|---|
| 1st Place | ₦1,000,000 |
| 2nd Place | ₦500,000 |
| 3rd Place | ₦300,000 |
Where to Submit
- Send entries to: summit@uslf.org.ng
- For inquiries: 08109623019, 07032624119
How to Write a Standout Essay for the USLF Essay Competition
Writing a high-scoring essay on such a national issue requires strategy, originality, and clarity. Here’s a breakdown of the steps to writing an excellent essay that can win:
1. Understand the Theme Thoroughly
Before you start writing:
- Research the history of banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria, especially in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara.
- Study the socio-economic effects: How does it affect farming, education, business, and inter-state trade?
- Use case studies from real events or news sources.
2. Structure Your Essay Properly
Use a clear structure with the following:
a. Introduction
- Introduce the theme
- Define key terms like “banditry,” “kidnapping,” and “socio-economic”
- Give a brief background of insecurity in Nigeria
b. Body Paragraphs
Break into subtopics such as:
- Impact on Agriculture
- Education Disruption
- Health and Mental Trauma
- Youth Migration and Brain Drain
- Collapse of Rural Economies
- Investment Withdrawal
- Effect on Women and Children
Use facts, quotes, and statistics to back your claims.
c. Recommendations
Provide realistic and actionable suggestions:
- Youth empowerment initiatives
- Community policing and intelligence gathering
- State police debate
- Investment in education and vocational training
- Strengthening local government systems
Conclusion
- Reaffirm the urgency of addressing insecurity
- Emphasize the role of youth in creating lasting peace
- Summarize your strongest points
3. Use Clear and Compelling Language
- Avoid jargon
- Be formal but passionate
- Use short paragraphs and clear topic sentences
- Let your voice and personality show through your writing
4. Reference Credible Sources
Mention:
- Academic studies
- Newspaper reports
- Government documents
- NGO or international organization reports (e.g., UNICEF, ICRC)
Use in-text citations if possible, or mention your source informally in the text (e.g., “According to a 2023 UNICEF report…”).
5. Edit Ruthlessly
Don’t send your first draft. Do the following:
- Re-read and revise multiple times
- Remove redundant or vague statements
- Use spell check and grammar tools like Grammarly
- Ask a mentor or lecturer to review it
6. Avoid Plagiarism at All Costs
Use your own words. Plagiarism can lead to automatic disqualification. If you quote, cite your sources properly—even in a basic form.
7. Include a Personal Touch
- Mention your experience as a youth from one of the affected states
- Share how insecurity has affected your family, school, or community
- Add emotion—but keep it factual and balanced
Why You Should Participate
This competition is more than just about money. Here’s what else you’ll gain:
- Recognition across the three states and beyond
- Networking with security and policy experts
- Opportunity to be part of Shinkafi Intelligence & Security Summit
- Possibility of internships, mentorships, or policy influence
- Becoming a voice for your region
Conclusion
The 1st USLF Essay Competition is a timely initiative that empowers the youth to take ownership of national security discourse. If you’re from Sokoto, Kebbi, or Zamfara, this is your chance to let your ideas shine. Prepare with excellence, write with passion, and speak for your people.
Don’t forget: Deadline is 27th June 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) with clear and concise answers regarding the 1st USLF Essay Competition:
1. Who is eligible to participate in the USLF Essay Competition?
Answer:
Only indigenes of Sokoto, Kebbi, or Zamfara States who are currently enrolled in any Nigerian tertiary institution and are between the ages of 16 to 25 years are eligible.
2. What is the theme of the essay?
Answer:
The theme is: “Socio-Economic Implications of Kidnapping and Banditry in Nigeria.”
3. What are the word count and formatting requirements for the essay?
Answer:
Essays must be between 1000–1300 words, typed in Times New Roman, font size 12, with 1.5 line spacing, and submitted in PDF format.
4. What is the prize for the 1st position winner?
Answer:
The 1st position winner will receive a cash prize of ₦1,000,000.
5. When is the submission deadline?
Answer:
The deadline for submitting entries is 27th June 2025.
6. How can I submit my essay?
Answer:
Send your essay as a PDF attachment via email to: summit@uslf.org.ng
Make sure to include a valid means of identification with your submission.
7. Can I still participate if I’m studying outside Nigeria?
Answer:
No. Only students currently enrolled in Nigerian tertiary institutions are eligible to participate.
8. Will my essay be checked for plagiarism?
Answer:
Yes. All submitted essays will be subjected to strict plagiarism checks. Only original, authentic content will be accepted.
9. When and how will winners be announced?
Answer:
Winners will be announced on 6th July 2025 during the 9th remembrance anniversary of Late Marafan Sokoto, Alhaji Umaru Ali Shinkafi.
10. Who can I contact for more information or clarification?
Answer:
You can call or message these official contacts for any inquiries:
08109623019, 07032624119