First City Monument Bank (FCMB) marked Children’s Day 2025 by hosting the grand finale of its National Essay and Drawing Competition, celebrating the creativity and intellectual potential of Nigerian children. The event, held on May 27, was part of the bank’s broader commitment to youth development and education. According to a statement released by FCMB, the competition was exclusively open to holders of the FCMB Kids Account, offering them a unique opportunity to express themselves through writing and art.
A total of nine standout participants aged 3 to 17 were awarded scholarships up to N1.5 million, while 72 other finalists received N50,000 consolation prizes and FCMB-branded souvenirs. In the essay category for ages 13 to 17, Ogbu Ikechukwu from Enugu State clinched the top prize with a thoughtful response to the prompt on managing a N1 million birthday gift. He received a scholarship of N1.5 million, while the first and second runners-up got N1 million and N750,000 respectively.
For the 6 to 12-year-old category, participants wrote about using superhero powers to help the world. Lagos-based Eliezer Okuchemiya emerged victorious, securing a N1 million scholarship, followed by second and third place winners who earned N750,000 and N500,000. In the drawing category for children aged 3 to 5, Onwamaegbu Ifeadigo impressed the judges with a cheerful ATM-themed painting, winning N750,000. Runners-up took home N500,000 and N250,000 scholarships respectively.
Speaking at the event, Adetunji Lamidi, FCMB’s Divisional Head for Personal Banking, emphasized the initiative’s goal of promoting learning and encouraging children to express their ideas creatively. He highlighted the FCMB Kids Account as a tool for instilling financial literacy and smart saving habits, while also offering access to educational opportunities like this competition.
The finale left a strong impression on both judges and guests, who commended the participants and praised FCMB’s role in youth empowerment. The bank extended gratitude to parents, teachers, and guardians for their support and reaffirmed its belief in the transformative power of education. The initiative aligns with FCMB’s vision of inclusive and sustainable development, empowering the next generation to contribute meaningfully to society.
Source: Punch