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By Chinenye Anuforo
Nigerian teenagers have emerged as the winners at the 5th Annual TeensThink International Essay Competition, showcasing the nation’s position as a hub for young, innovative minds.
The competition, held in Lagos, brought together bright teenage from across Africa to explore the critical intersection of humanity and Artificial Intelligence.
The theme for the 2025 competition, ‘Humanity and Artificial Intelligence: How Can a Blend of the Two Make the World a Better Place: A Teen’s Perspective,’ charged participants to envision a future where technology serves the human condition ethically and effectively. Out of over 100 submissions from young thinkers in Nigeria, Liberia, Kenya, and Cameroon, 16 finalists were rigorously selected for their originality, clarity, relevance, depth, and creativity.
It was a clean sweep for Nigeria as three talented young minds secured the top positions. Opabiyi Josephine from the Federal College of Education Abeokuta, Model Secondary School came 1st place with 82 points, Eniola Kananfo from Ota Total Academy, Ota took the second place with 81 points while Oghenerugba Akpabor-Okoro from Babington Macaulay Junior Seminary, Ikorodu won the 3rd place with 80 points.
The winners were awarded brand-new laptops, educational books, rechargeable fans, Scrabble games, and cash prizes. Their winning essays are set to be published on prominent educational platforms, fostering wider dialogue on AI and ethics across the continent.
Speaking on behalf of TeensThink’s founder and convener, David Olesin expressed pride in the contestants and reaffirmed the organization’s mission. He said, “TeensThink is deeply committed to preparing teenagers for leadership in a fast-evolving world. Through platforms like this competition, we empower young minds to challenge norms, embrace curiosity, and develop the confidence to drive real-world change especially in fields like Artificial Intelligence.”
The event reached its peak with the unveiling of QuestAIKids a free artificial intelligence learning platform. Officially launched by keynote speaker Dr. Celestine Achi, AI educator, innovator, and CEO of Cihan Media Communications, the platform aims to democratize AI education, providing free access to premium learning resources for children across Africa.
“The people who change the world are the ones who dare to ask, ‘What if?’” Dr. Achi told the audience. “Africa’s youth must seize the opportunity to shape the continent’s future with daring ideas powered by empathy and intelligence.”
The finale was not all essays and accolades. It featured vibrant performances by Anyangbemisola the Drummer Girl, saxophonist Demilade Adepegba, and rapper Young T, blending artistry with intellect in a soul-stirring celebration of Africa’s limitless youth talent.
Dr. Adeboye Adeyemi, Chairman of the TeensThink Advisory Committee, captured the event’s essence saying,
“These teens are not waiting for the future they are actively redefining it. Their ideas, their voices, and their passions are shaping a smarter, more ethical digital Africa.”
