By MaCarthy Youth Foundation Gifts Millions To Minors, Essay Winners In Maiden Competition In Imo State
Ghazali Ibrahim
The Owerri Federal Constituency Essay Competition 2024 launched by MaCarthy Youth Foundation wrapped up with an inspiring grand finale on January 2, 2025, at Rockview Hotels in Owerri, Imo State.
The event not only honored the brightest young minds in the region but also celebrated the exceptional contributions of minors who participated in the competition, defying expectations with their insightful essays.
The essay competition, organized by the Macarthy Youth Foundation and the Ezhia Initiative for Community Development, attracted submissions from youths aged 18 to 31 across the three local government areas in Owerri Federal constituency.
However, it was the three minors – Muruako JoseMaria (13 years), Chimuanya Chukwuemeka Chiziterem (16 years), and Azuoma Dominica (13 years) – who stole the spotlight, earning special recognition for their impressive submissions on the theme: “Engaging the Next Generation: How Young Leaders Can Drive Economic, Social, and Political Progress in Owerri.”
These young participants, who were too young to compete in the main category, were given the opportunity to present their essays in a newly created category for minors. Each of them received a ₦100,000 cash prize in recognition of their remarkable contributions and commitment to shaping the future of their community.
Their involvement in the competition was a testament to the growing interest among younger generations in leadership, social change, and civic responsibility.
Muruako JoseMaria, Chimuanya Chukwuemeka Chiziterem, and Azuoma Dominica were invited to defend their entries during the grand finale, where they received applause for their well-thought-out solutions to pressing community issues.
The competition’s overall winner, Eziefula Chidera Angel, from Owerri Municipal, took home ₦200,000, while Osuji Ugoeze Sylvia, also from Owerri Municipal, and Okere Anselem Chidozie from Owerri North won second and third place, respectively, earning ₦150,000 and ₦100,000.
Jerry Macarthy Kabiri, President of the Macarthy Youth Foundation, commended the participation of minors, emphasizing the importance of nurturing leadership at an early age.
