Step Up Nigeria Launches Whistleblower Contest Encouraging Youth to Combat Corruption
Abuja — Step Up Nigeria, in collaboration with the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa, has announced the 2026 World Whistleblowers Day Art Media Competition. This initiative invites young Nigerians to harness their creativity to advocate for transparency and accountability in governance.
The competition was unveiled during a press conference in Abuja, where organizers emphasized the critical role of youth engagement in the battle against corruption. Step Up Nigeria’s Communications Manager, Dr. Shekwogaza Kule, highlighted that the competition serves as a platform for young individuals to effectively participate in governance dialogues through storytelling and artistic expression.
Program Director Oluwaferanmi Iyanda explained that this competition presents a unique chance for youth to express their commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of whistleblowers. He noted that the event is more than a contest; it is an appeal for young Nigerians to vocalize their stance against corruption and advocate for ethical practices.
Open to participants aged 15 to 35, the contest accepts submissions in various formats, including artwork, short skits, songs, spoken word, articles, and short stories. Organizers encourage participants to focus on vital issues surrounding whistleblowing, such as its role in exposing corruption, the significance of accountability in governance, and the challenges faced by whistleblowers lacking legal protection.
Furthermore, the initiative aims to reshape public perceptions of whistleblowing, promoting it as an act of bravery and civic duty rather than an act of betrayal. This initiative aligns with Article 33 of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, which advocates for protective measures for individuals reporting corruption in good faith.
More information regarding eligibility and submission guidelines is available on the organization’s website. The event received support from key government and anti-corruption agencies, further indicating a growing institutional commitment to enhancing whistleblower protection in Nigeria. Among the attendees was Alhaji Mohammed S. Wase from the National Orientation Agency (NOA), along with Mr. Dele Oyewale from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The presence of these officials underscores the necessity for collaboration between civil society organizations and public institutions in fostering accountability. As the deadline nears, Step Up Nigeria urges young Nigerians nationwide to tap into their creativity as a catalyst for change.
