Yayi Essay Competition: Top 10 Finalists Emerge From 335 Entries Ahead of Nov 17 Grand Finale
The Student Affairs Committee of the Ogun State 2027 Campaign Council has successfully concluded the oral presentation and defence exercise for the top 10 finalists shortlisted from the 335 entries received for the Sen. Yayi ITESIWAJU Essay Writing Competition.
The exercise was conducted by the Chief Academic Assessor, Dr. Adegbami Adeleke of the Department of Public Administration, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), whose professional assessment guided the selection process. Each of the 10 finalists also received ₦20,000 to cover transportation and refreshments, ensuring that no participating student incurred personal expenses throughout the exercise.
The overall first, second and third-place winners, who will receive ₦1.5 million, ₦1 million and ₦500,000 respectively, will be officially unveiled and presented with their prizes at the International Students’ Day Celebration on 17th November 2026 at the Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.
During the exercise, the participants collectively expressed profound appreciation to Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) for approving and supporting the initiative, as well as for his various contributions to educational development across Ogun State. They particularly acknowledged his interventions in bursary and scholarship programmes, laptop distribution, educational infrastructure, construction and renovation of libraries, health centres, provision of ambulances and other student-centred initiatives.
The finalists also rose in appreciation of Senator Yayi and Alhaji Kamorudeen Olawale Yusuf for their combined ₦3 million sponsorship of the competition prizes, which will be presented to the eventual winners at the grand celebration.
The participants were equally encouraged to remain actively engaged in the democratic process, ensure their PVCs are ready and encourage their families, relatives and friends to participate responsibly in the 2027 general elections.
This initiative underscores the importance of investing in young people, celebrating intellectual excellence and creating opportunities for students to showcase their abilities without financial barriers.
Student Affairs Committee
Ogun State APC 2027 Campaign Council
