First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has honoured the literary and artistic talents of young Nigerians at the grand finale of its National Essay and Drawing Competition, held in celebration of Children’s Day 2025.
The competition, exclusively for holders of the FCMB Kids Account, provided a platform for children aged 3 to 17 to express their creativity, imagination, and financial intelligence through essays and drawings. Nine exceptional winners were awarded scholarships worth up to N1.5 million each, while 72 other finalists received N50,000 consolation prizes and branded souvenirs.
Ogbu Ikechukwu from Nsukka, Enugu State, emerged winner in the 13–17 age essay category with a compelling entry on “How will you manage and utilise a birthday gift of N1 million responsibly?” His thoughtful response earned him a N1.5 million scholarship. The first and second runners-up in the category received N1 million and N750,000 respectively.
In the 6–12 age group, participants tackled the topic: “If you were a superhero with the power to save the world, how would you use your skills to help others?” Lagos-based Eliezer Okuchemiya clinched the top prize of N1 million. The second and third-place winners secured N750,000 and N500,000 respectively.
For the youngest category—children aged 3 to 5—Onwamaegbu Ifeadigo captured hearts with a vibrant painting of an Automated Teller Machine (ATM), winning a N750,000 scholarship. Other top performers in the drawing category received N500,000 and N250,000.
Speaking at the event, Adetunji Lamidi, FCMB’s Divisional Head of Personal Banking, highlighted the initiative’s significance:
“We introduced the national essay and drawing competition to encourage learning and give children a platform to express their ideas. Their entries showed strong awareness and original thinking. By supporting their potential, we’re investing in future innovation and progress.”
He also emphasized the broader goal of the FCMB Kids Account:
“The FCMB Kids Account helps children build smart money habits early. It supports financial literacy, encourages saving, and creates access to scholarships and creative competitions. We commend all participants and encourage them to keep learning and growing.”
FCMB also acknowledged the indispensable role of parents, teachers, and guardians in nurturing young minds, expressing gratitude for their guidance and support throughout the competition.
The finale was a celebration of youthful brilliance, as finalists presented their essays and artwork before a captivated audience of judges, educators, and guests. The event drew widespread praise for FCMB’s unwavering dedication to investing in the next generation.
As a member of FCMB Group Plc, the Bank continues to champion inclusive growth by nurturing young talent and empowering future leaders through education and creativity. The National Essay and Drawing Competition stands as a testament to FCMB’s enduring belief that every child holds the potential to shape a better tomorrow.