At the recent 19th edition of the Bishop Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition for Nigerian secondary schools three students have emerged winners.

The event Mike Okonkwo held at The Redeemed Evangelical Mission International Headquarters, Gbagada, Lagos saw Flourish Olaoye of Christ the King International School, Gbagada, take first place. In contrast, Nora Femi-Lawal of Chrisland High School, Lekki, took second place and the third position was awarded to Olayimika Durotimi of Corona Secondary School, Agbara.

The Chief Examiner, Prof. Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, noted, “The three winners tackled the topics with a level of thoughtfulness appropriate for their age. They conveyed their ideas in a manner befitting exceptional students of their age and grade. Their command of the English Language structures highlights their meticulous nature and significant potential. We congratulate them, as well as the other finalists, and wish them great success in their future endeavours.”

She also commented on the growing influence of AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Assistant, and Gemini, along with online services that produce and sell essays to students, as becoming commonplace in the educational system.

For their achievements, Olaoye would  receive a cheque for N500,000, along with a trophy and a plaque, while her school would be awarded a set of computers.

Nora Femi-Lawal, who secured second place, would take home a cheque for N250,000 and a plaque, with her school also receiving a set of computers.

For placing third in this year’s Bishop Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition,  Olayimika Esther Durotimi would be awarded a cheque for N150,000, a plaque, and a computer set for her school. The remaining finalists would each receive a consolation prize of N20,000.

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