NEC 2025: Essay contest winners champion tax reform as catalyst for Nigeria’s economic future

The winners of the 2025 National Essay Competition have been announced, with Vincent Maduka securing the top prize, followed by Loveson Anselm as first runner-up and Ogunleye Ayomide as second runner-up.

Sponsored by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and themed “Write the Future,” the competition challenged young Nigerians to critically examine the nation’s future through the lens of taxation and reforms. The event, which held on Wednesday, November 26, in Abuja, attracted intense participation from aspiring young leaders across the country.

Convener Foluso Sylvanus Ojo, publisher of Abuja City Journal, noted that the initiative was born out of the need to elevate academically exceptional students who are often overlooked in national recognition.

“Our youth should be celebrated for their intellectual achievements. It was heartbreaking when a top graduate received a token while entertainers were awarded millions,” Ojo said. “That realization inspired this competition to support students with exceptional intellectual capacity.”Highlighting the importance of tax reform, Ojo stated that the conversations around taxation are central to Nigeria’s development trajectory.

“We are writing towards the future because topics like tax policies directly impact the nation’s growth,” he added.

First runner-up Loveson Anselm, a medical student at the University of Jos, described his journey as a leap of faith.

“It’s a dream come true. I saw the notice during my professional exams, took the chance, researched deeply on tax reforms, and it paid off,” he said.

“Through my research, I discovered that the intention behind tax reform is genuine. If fully implemented, it will strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal health.”

Representing the FIRS, Mohamed Adaya Salisu, Chief Economic Advisor to the FIRS Chairman, emphasised the agency’s commitment to youth empowerment through education.

“The future is bright. FIRS remains committed to funding education and human capital development, which are critical to Nigeria’s progress,” he noted.

In a thought-provoking address, Engineer Michael Oluwagbemi highlighted both the challenges and untapped opportunities within Nigeria’s youthful population.

“Nigeria faces numerous challenges but also possesses immense potential, particularly as a rising influence across the African continent,” he said.

As the ceremony drew to a close, finalists were encouraged to pursue excellence in education and actively contribute to national development, particularly in areas such as fiscal reform.

“Education is not a scam; it pays,” Anselm affirmed, urging young Nigerians to embrace critical thinking beyond the influence of social media trends.