by Undergraduates, this is your moment! If you have an opinion and the facts to back it up, this is your time to shine. Participate in the 2026 CIPM Essay Competition and win a trip to Africa’s biggest HR event — the CIPM 58th International Conference & Exhibition! Entries for the Annual CIPM ₦750,000 Essay Competition 2026 are currently being accepted by the Chatered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM).
All undergraduates are eligible to enter the CIPM Essay Competition, with the winners receiving ₦750,000.00 in cash awards, books, and resources in addition to a trip to Abuja for the organization’s conference and grand ceremony. Winners will also have access to a network of employers in their sector of choice and career, thanks to CIPM, Nigeria’s professional association for human relations.
About CIPM ₦750,000 Essay Competition:
The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) hosts its annual Essay Competition for undergraduates in Nigerian universities and polytechnics. This initiative promotes thought leadership in Human Resource Management (HRM) and provides students with opportunities to showcase their writing, analytical, and research skills.
Topic for 2026:
- “Are Nigerian Tertiary Institutions Truly Preparing Students for the World of Work?”
Type:
- Essay Competition | Nigeria | Undergraduate Students
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be undergraduate students of Nigerian universities or polytechnics.
- Submit an original, empirical essay of journal standard.
- Ensure essay length does not exceed 3,000 words.
- Use APA referencing style.
- Format essay in Times New Roman, 12pt, double line spacing, MS Word ONLY.
- Avoid plagiarism (disqualification if detected).
- Past winners are not eligible.
How are Candidates Selected?
- Based on originality, depth of analysis, relevance to HRM, and adherence to formatting guidelines.
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for verification.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Nigeria only.
Where will the Competition be Taken?
- Nationwide, with winners invited to the CIPM 2026 International Conference & Exhibition in Abuja.
How Many Awards?
- Multiple winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd prizes).
What is the Benefit of the Competition?
- 1st Prize: ₦300,000 + 2 HRM books.
- 2nd Prize: ₦250,000 + 2 HRM books.
- 3rd Prize: ₦200,000 + 2 HRM books.
- Free student membership registration with CIPM.
- All-expense-paid trip to Abuja for CIPM 2026 International Conference.
- Access to a network of employers.
Required Documents:
- Student ID card.
- Admission letter.
- One recent passport photograph.
- Current mobile number and email address.
How to Apply:
- Write essay (≤ 3,000 words, APA referencing, MS Word format).
- Scan and combine essay + required documents into a single file.
- Send to: essaycompetition@cipmnigeria.org
