Abuja — Young Nigerians have been called upon to take an active stand against corruption as Step Up Nigeria, in collaboration with the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa, launched the 2026 World Whistleblower Day Art and Media Competition.
The initiative, unveiled during a press briefing in Abuja, is part of activities marking this year’s World Whistleblower Day and is aimed at using creative expression to deepen conversations around accountability and good governance.
According to the Communications Manager of Step Up Nigeria, Dr. Shekwogaza Kure, the competition is designed to engage young people in advocacy by giving them a platform to express their views on corruption and transparency through art and media.
Also speaking at the briefing, the organisation’s Director of Programmes, Oluwaferanmi Iyanda, said the initiative provides an avenue for youths to channel their creativity into promoting transparency, accountability, and the protection of whistleblowers.
He noted that beyond creativity, the competition is intended to inspire a new generation of citizens who are willing to speak up against wrongdoing.
The competition is open to Nigerians aged 15 to 35 and welcomes entries in categories such as artwork, short videos and skits, music, spoken word, articles, and short stories.
Participants are expected to address issues including the role of whistleblowers in exposing corruption, the importance of open governance, and the dangers faced by individuals who report misconduct without adequate legal safeguards.
Organisers say the broader goal is to reshape how whistleblowing is perceived in Nigeria — from an act often viewed with suspicion to one recognised as a vital civic duty.
The initiative is also aligned with Article 33 of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, which encourages the protection of individuals who report corruption in good faith.
To allow more entries, the deadline for submissions has been extended to April 12, 2026. Participation is free, with winners set to receive cash prizes and recognition, while selected works may be featured in educational podcasts.
However, organisers emphasised that all entries must be original and not generated using artificial intelligence.
Representatives from key public institutions were also present at the event, including officials from the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), highlighting growing collaboration between civil society and government in promoting accountability.
With the deadline drawing closer, organisers are encouraging young Nigerians across the country to seize the opportunity to use their voices and talents to challenge corruption and promote integrity.
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