BusinessDay has opened entries for its 2027 Young Economists Writing Challenge, inviting Economics students in Nigerian universities to take their ideas beyond the classroom and into print.
Participants are required to submit an original article of between 800 and 1,000 words on one of three topics: what it will take for Nigeria to become a trillion-dollar economy; whether inflation, jobs or economic growth should be the country’s priority; and whether Detty December can grow from a festive-season phenomenon into a billion-dollar industry.
The topics reflect some of the key conversations around Nigeria’s economy, from the pressures facing households and businesses to the debate over government priorities and the growing role of the creative and hospitality industries.
What winners will receive
The winner will receive N200,000, while the first and second runners-up will receive N150,000 and N100,000 respectively.
Winning entries will also be published in BusinessDay. The winners will be recognised at a BusinessDay event, receive a Certificate of Achievement and have their photographs published in the newspaper.
The overall winner will also receive a one-month internship with BusinessDay journalists and economists, offering an opportunity to gain experience in researching, writing and editing economic stories in a working newsroom.
Who can enter
The competition is open to undergraduate Economics students in recognised Nigerian universities.
Entrants are expected to submit their articles through the QR code on the official poster or the online entry page. They must provide their full name, university, department and level, email address, phone number and a valid student ID.
Key dates
Entries opened on November 9, 2026, and will close on November 27, 2026. Winners will be announced on January 5, 2027.