By Marian Bebia
Adeniran Saheed, a 200-level Law student at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), has won the 2026 Business Verge Student Essay Competition, taking home the ₦100,000 cash prize.
Saheed placed first after judges evaluated entries on the prompt: “How Can Young Nigerians Build Sustainable Businesses in Today’s Economy?”
His paper, “Nigeria Economy: How Young Nigerians Can Build Enduring Business Ideas,” analysed the practical challenges youth entrepreneurs encounter and proposed strategies for establishing ventures that extend beyond short-term gains.
The contest received entries from students across several faculties, including law, engineering, computer science, accounting, and marine science, which were initially cut down to a shortlist of 10. Evaluation continued to determine the final five, before the final three participants were named.
Computer Engineering 300-level student John Fulfilment and Electrical and Electronics Engineering 400-level student Tobechukwu Egboh joined Saheed in the top three.
Organised by Business Verge, the initiative was designed to give undergraduates a platform to address key issues surrounding startup longevity and economic opportunities in Nigeria.
In a statement announcing the results, the media platform praised Saheed for his work and acknowledged the UNILAG student body for participating in discussions on the future of youth entrepreneurship.
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