Win Up to ₦1 Million in the 2025 USLF Essay Competition

The Umaru Shinkafi Legacy Foundation (USLF) is calling on students in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara to take part in its first-ever essay contest. This is tied to the Shinkafi Intelligence and Security Summit (SISS). If you’re between 16 and 25 and study at any tertiary school in these states, this is your shot.

The theme? It hits close to home: “Socio-Economic Implications of Kidnapping and Banditry in Nigeria.”

This isn’t just a writing exercise. It’s a chance to speak on issues shaking our communities and propose what could be done better. And yes, there’s serious prize money.

Who Can Join?

Not everyone’s eligible, and that’s on purpose. This contest is for:

• Students (private or public) in Sokoto, Kebbi, or Zamfara
• Age 16 to 25
• Enrolled in a tertiary institution (university, polytechnic, college of education, etc.)

Essay Rules

You’ll need to follow these rules if you want your entry considered:

• Word count: 2,000 to 2,500 words
• Font: Times New Roman, size 12, spacing 1.5
• Format: PDF only
• No plagiarism. They will check. Copying? You’re out.
• Include a valid ID with your entry. No ID, no contest.

The Rewards

Winners will be rewarded with more than just applause. Here’s what’s at stake:

• 🏆 1st Place: ₦1,000,000
• 🥈 2nd Place: ₦500,000
• 🥉 3rd Place: ₦300,000

Not bad for a few thousand words and some sharp thinking.

Key Dates

• Deadline to send in essays: 27 June 2025
• Winners announced: 6 July 2025, during the 9th remembrance of Late Marafan Sokoto, Alhaji Umaru Ali Shinkafi, former Director-General of the Nigerian Security Organization.

How to Submit

All entries must be sent via email. Here’s what to do:

• Save your essay as a PDF
• Email it to summit@uslf.org.ng
• Don’t forget your valid ID

Got questions? You can call:

• 📞 08109623019
• 📞 07032624119