First City Monument Bank (FCMB) orchestrated a vibrant celebration of youthful ingenuity and artistic flair on Children’s Day, May 27, 2025, with the grand finale of its National Essay and Drawing Competition. This initiative served as a testament to FCMB’s unwavering dedication to nurturing education and youth development in Nigeria, providing a dynamic platform for young account holders to showcase their creative prowess. The competition, designed specifically for holders of the FCMB Kids Account, aimed to ignite a passion for learning and self-expression among the younger generation. The grand finale, held amidst an air of anticipation and excitement, saw the culmination of weeks of creative endeavors, showcasing the remarkable potential of Nigeria’s young minds.
The competition was structured across various age groups and categories, ensuring a fair and engaging experience for all participants. For the essay competition, students aged 13 to 17 grappled with the thought-provoking question of how to responsibly manage a substantial financial gift. Younger essayists, aged 6 to 12, explored their altruistic visions by contemplating how they would utilize superpowers to benefit humanity. Meanwhile, budding artists aged 3 to 5 brought their imaginations to life through vibrant drawings, showcasing their unique perspectives and interpretations. This multi-faceted approach allowed children of different ages and inclinations to participate and excel in their chosen areas of interest, fostering a holistic development of their creative and intellectual capacities.
The grand finale was not merely a culmination of the competition but a celebration of talent and potential. Nine exceptional young individuals, demonstrating extraordinary creativity and critical thinking, were awarded scholarships totaling up to N1.5 million. Ogbu Ikechukwu, from Nsukka, Enugu State, emerged victorious in the senior essay category, presenting a compelling and insightful essay on responsible financial management. Eliezer Okuchemiya, a student from Lagos, captivated the judges with his imaginative essay on using superpowers for good, securing the top spot in the junior essay category. Onwamaegbu Ifeadigo’s cheerful depiction of an ATM garnered the top prize in the drawing category. These remarkable young individuals exemplified the vibrant spirit of creativity and innovation that FCMB seeks to nurture.
In addition to the grand prize winners, 72 finalists received consolation prizes of N50,000 each, along with FCMB-branded souvenirs, recognizing their dedication and participation. This inclusive approach ensured that every finalist felt valued and appreciated for their contributions, fostering a sense of achievement and encouraging further engagement in creative pursuits. The distribution of prizes and scholarships underscores FCMB’s holistic commitment to supporting the educational journeys of these young individuals, recognizing that financial support can play a crucial role in enabling their academic aspirations.
Adetunji Lamidi, FCMB’s Divisional Head for Personal Banking, articulated the Bank’s vision behind this initiative, emphasizing its commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering financial literacy. He highlighted the competition as a platform for children to express their ideas and develop critical thinking skills. He further underscored the importance of financial literacy, emphasizing that the FCMB Kids Account is designed to instill smart money habits from an early age. The competition serves as a compelling testament to FCMB’s dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators by equipping them with the essential financial skills and creative thinking abilities to thrive in a dynamic world.
The event was not just about recognizing individual achievements but also celebrating the collective efforts of parents, teachers, and guardians who play a pivotal role in nurturing these young talents. FCMB expressed its gratitude for their unwavering support and encouragement, acknowledging their crucial contribution in shaping the future leaders of Nigeria. The grand finale was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees. The finalists, beaming with pride, presented their essays and artworks, demonstrating the immense potential that lies within Nigeria’s youth. The event drew widespread praise for FCMB’s continued investment in education and youth development, solidifying its position as a champion for empowering the next generation. The bank reiterated its commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable growth across communities, underscoring its belief in the transformative power of education.
