FG Launches National Essay Competition for Young Girls
- Young Nigerian girls are being called to lead change through the power of words and vocational skills in the IDG 2025 National Girls Leadership Essay Competition
- With a focus on breaking stereotypes and tackling unemployment, the contest offers a platform for voices aged 10 to 20 to shine
- Winners will not only receive cash prizes but also step into leadership roles and attend the prestigious Girls Future Conference
The organisers of the IDG 2025 National Girls Leadership Essay Competition have officially launched this year’s call for submissions, inviting young Nigerian females aged between 10 and 20 to participate in a transformative writing challenge aimed at spotlighting leadership and vocational empowerment.
Under the theme “Beyond the Stereotype: Nigerian Girls Breaking Barriers with a Toolbox,” the competition seeks to explore how girls can tackle unemployment through vocational skills and turn societal challenges into opportunities.

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Participants are expected to submit a 150-word essay addressing the role of young girls in reshaping Nigeria’s economic landscape through practical skillsets.
Organisers confirmed that the top three winners will receive cash prizes and gain exclusive access to the Girls Future Conference (#GFC2025).
The first-place winner will also be honoured with a symbolic leadership experience as the Shadow Minister for Youth Development for 24 hours.
The deadline for essay submissions is 28th September 2025. Interested candidates can submit their entries via the official submission portal.
Speaking with Legit.ng, Imaan Muhammad, an educationist based in Nigeria reacted to the national essay competition:
“This is encouraging. Giving girls a voice and platform is how real change starts. I believe the essay contest will build confidence, break limits and open doors.”
Girl Future Conference
The Girls Future Conference (#GFC2025) is a high-impact leadership and empowerment event for young Nigerian girls, held in celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child.
Organised by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in partnership with UNFPA and the Ministry of Education, the conference brings together winners of the National Girls Leadership Essay Competition.
Participants, aged 10 to 20, engage in mentorship, policy dialogue, and skills development sessions aimed at fostering innovation and resilience. #GFC2025 highlights the transformative role of girls in addressing national challenges and equips them to lead change across communities and sectors.

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Ministry of Youth responsibility
The Federal Ministry of Youth Development in Nigeria is responsible for formulating and implementing policies that empower young people across the country.
Its core duties include promoting youth employment, entrepreneurship, education, and vocational training. The ministry oversees key initiatives such as the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, aiming to foster civic responsibility and leadership skills. It also supports youth-led enterprises, social mobilisation, and community engagement.
By driving programmes that enhance physical, mental, and economic well-being, the ministry plays a vital role in national development and in preparing Nigeria’s youth for future leadership.
FG launches new online portal
Legit.ng earlier reported that the Federal Government has officially opened the application portal for YouthCred, a new initiative that provides Nigerian youths, especially NYSC members and young entrepreneurs, access to loans without the usual hurdles of collateral or a long credit history.
The programme, powered by the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CrediCorp), is part of a broader move to transform Nigeria’s credit culture and financially empower the next generation.
The online platform is now live and allows eligible young Nigerians to apply for various credit products tailored to their financial needs and growth plans.
Proofreading by James Ojo, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng


