Young Nigerians driving conversations around sexual and reproductive health have received a major boost as the Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF) presented N2.4 million in grants and brand-new laptops to winners of the 2025 WeNaija Youth Creativity Contest.
The presentation ceremony, held at the MTN Plaza Rooftop in Ikoyi, Lagos, brought together health professionals, youth advocates, and development organisations for a day of learning, training, and networking. The atmosphere reflected the creativity and energy behind the competition.
Cash Prizes and Laptops for Five Outstanding Finalists
Five finalists were recognized for their outstanding submissions:
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5th Runner-Up: ₦200,000 + laptop
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4th Runner-Up: ₦300,000 + laptop
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3rd Runner-Up: ₦400,000 + laptop
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2nd Runner-Up: ₦500,000 + laptop
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Winner: ₦1 million + laptop
The contest gives young Nigerians a platform to use storytelling, digital skills, and creative thinking to address issues many communities still struggle to talk about openly.
NSSF Highlights Growing Interest in Youth-Led Health Education
Managing Director and CEO of NSSF, Dr. Fejiro Chinyere-Nwoko, said this year’s turnout over 400 entries shows how strongly young people want clearer and more accessible information on sexual and reproductive health.
She explained that many adults assume young people already understand their bodies and health risks, yet the submissions reveal a different reality. According to her, the WeNaija initiative is helping young Nigerians gain access to the right data, guidance, and institutional support to speak confidently on these issues.
Experts Emphasize the Need for Better Sexuality Education
Public health specialist, Dr. Oyindamola Alabi, pointed to ongoing challenges such as teenage pregnancy, unsafe abortions, and rising HIV infections among adolescents. She said young people often seek answers from their peers, which can lead to misleading or incomplete information.
Medical doctor and co-founder of TryPrivHealth, Dr. Olusina Ajidahun, commended this year’s finalists for addressing sensitive topics responsibly. He noted that many youths are showing a deeper understanding of the obstacles surrounding reproductive health and are using creative tools to highlight them.
Winner Plans to Use Prize to Grow Creative Career
The overall winner, Alade Adedayo, said his entry focused on the dangers of stigma and misinformation. He explained that the rise in teenage pregnancy and HIV infections can be linked to limited access to proper health education.
Adedayo shared that the grant and laptop will help him expand his videography work and reach more young people with accurate, youth-friendly content.
Alongside the award presentations, the event featured panel discussions, hands-on training, and networking sessions. Participants engaged with health experts and development partners, gaining insights into advocacy, digital storytelling, and community engagement.
The initiative continues to promote creativity, skill development, and youth leadership—key ingredients for addressing social challenges and strengthening community awareness across the country.
