National Essay Competition Sparks Nationwide Energy Discourse

The Abuja City Journal (ACJ) concluded its second annual National Essay Competition with a resounding call for energy transformation and youth empowerment.

The event, which took place at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, focused on “Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), as an Alternative Fuel for Transportation and Its Cost Impact on Subsidy Removal in Nigeria.”

Ogunleye Esther, a student of the Bells University of Technology, Ota, emerged as the overall winner, clinching N2.5 million and becoming the PCNGI Brand Ambassador.

The first runner-up, Amarachi Ojiako Judith of Godfrey Okoye University, won N1.5 million, while Suleiman Abubakar Danazumi of Ahmadu Bello University took N1 million as the second runner-up.

ACJ Publisher Mr Foluso Sylvanus Ojo reaffirmed the competition’s role in fostering innovative thinking and nation-building.

“This competition is about igniting the spark of innovation in young Nigerians and redefining our national narrative,” he said.

Tosin Coker, Head of Commercial at Pi-CNG, emphasized the importance of adopting Compressed Natural Gas as a cleaner, more affordable energy solution.

“CNG is vital for reducing costs, improving energy security, and fostering environmental sustainability.

“We urge these young leaders to champion sustainable energy solutions in their communities,” he remarked.

The competition, which attracted over 700 entries nationwide, has been lauded by industry stakeholders, including the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), for aligning with Nigeria’s energy and economic policies.

Plans are underway for the 2025 edition as ACJ continues to drive innovation and intellectual empowerment nationwide.