Students from Benue State have recorded an impressive performance at the finals of an inter-state essay writing competition held from 1st April to 2nd April 2026 at Dannic Hotel, Enugu, with participants securing top positions across categories.
The competition, organised by the Civil Resource Development and Documentation Centre in partnership with the Community and Youth Development Initiatives, brought together secondary school students from Imo and Benue states to address key social issues through writing. This year’s theme, Women’s Inclusion in Community Leadership as a Rights-Based Strategy for Preventing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Nigeria, encouraged students to propose solutions aimed at strengthening gender equality and inclusive governance.
In the senior category, Benue students dominated the rankings, taking first, third, and fourth positions. Chiviter David Adabo of Jewel Model School, Makurdi, emerged overall winner, with judges highlighting his essay for its depth, clarity, and strong analytical perspective. Imoni Adouga Joshua of Methodist High School, Obagaji, in Agatu Local Government Area, secured third place, while Aondongu Eric Terkumawyuese of SamJosh Best Brain International Academy placed fourth. In the junior category, Luwang Erica Terlumun finished fifth, earning recognition for what organisers described as a promising and confident performance.
Organisers say the competition aims to strengthen critical thinking and writing skills among young people, while encouraging them to engage with issues such as sexual and gender-based violence. Education stakeholders at the event praised the students for their performance and noted that the outcome reflects broader improvements in learning and academic engagement.
Observers say the results also point to the impact of recent investments in the education sector by Governor Hyacinth Alia. His administration has prioritised school revitalisation, teacher recruitment and support, as well as learning infrastructure, with early signs suggesting measurable gains in student performance. The achievements of the Benue students have been widely welcomed, with many describing them as evidence of the state’s growing academic competitiveness on the national stage.
