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The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has opened entries for the 2026 NERC Essay Competition, inviting eligible secondary school students across Nigeria to submit essays on renewable energy and the future of electricity supply in the country.
The annual competition is designed to encourage young Nigerians to think critically about energy challenges facing the nation while proposing practical ideas that can contribute to national development. This year’s essay theme focuses on one of Nigeria’s most pressing issues: how renewable energy can improve electricity access and reliability.
About the Competition
The 2026 edition of the NERC Essay Competition is centred on the topic:
“The Role of Renewable Energy in Improving Electricity Supply in Nigeria”
Participants are expected to explore how renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and biomass can help address Nigeria’s electricity shortages, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and support sustainable national growth.
The competition serves as an academic platform for students to demonstrate research ability, originality, analytical thinking, and awareness of current energy realities in Nigeria.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is strictly open to:
- Students in Senior Secondary School Year Two (SS2)
- Candidates enrolled in public secondary schools in Nigeria
- Candidates enrolled in private secondary schools in Nigeria
Only students who meet these eligibility requirements are permitted to participate.
Prizes and Rewards
NERC has announced attractive rewards for outstanding entries.
Prizes will be awarded to:
- Top 3 winning students
- Teachers of winning students
- Winning schools
In addition, 10 student runners-up will receive consolation prizes.
This structure ensures that both students and the institutions supporting academic excellence are recognised and rewarded.
Essay Submission Requirements
Each essay must:
- Be approximately 1,000 words
- Address the official competition topic clearly
- Include the student’s full name
- Include complete home address
- Include complete school address
- Include email address
- Include contact phone number
All required personal details must be clearly stated within the body of the essay.
How to Submit
Applicants must submit their essays as email attachments to: electricitychallenge@nerc.gov.ng
Entries submitted without the required information may be disqualified.
Application Timeline
The submission window opens on:
Opening Date:
18 May 2026 – 6:00 PM
Closing Date:
15 June 2026 – 6:00 PM
Late submissions will not be accepted after the deadline.
Why This Matters
Nigeria continues to face major electricity supply challenges, making renewable energy an important national conversation. Through this competition, NERC is giving young Nigerians the opportunity to contribute ideas that may shape future energy solutions while developing their academic and leadership potential.
Students interested in policy, science, engineering, and national development are encouraged to participate and submit thoughtful, well-researched essays before the deadline.
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