The Federal Government has opened applications for the Creative Minds Contest 2026, inviting young Nigerians between the ages of 15 and 35 to showcase their creative talents.
The initiative is being organised through the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy and the Initiative for Self Esteem Education and Advocacy (ISEEA).
The contest is being held ahead of the National Adolescent and Youth Mental Health Week 2026.
Its theme is “Lived Experiences Heard, Real Voices, Real Change.”
According to information about the contest, the initiative aims to encourage young people to use creative expression to challenge stigma, inspire hope and promote constructive conversations about mental health and wellbeing.
Four creative categories available
Eligible participants can submit original works in four major categories.
They include:
- Film
- Music
- Spoken Word
- Visual Arts
Visual Arts entries may include painting, digital illustration, photography and graphic design.
Film submissions must not exceed five minutes, according to the published contest information.
₦200,000 awaits first-place winner
The contest offers cash prizes to the top three winners.
The published prize structure is:
- First place – ₦200,000
- Second place – ₦150,000
- Third place – ₦100,000
The organisers are encouraging young creatives to use their experiences, ideas and artistic abilities to produce works that reflect the contest theme.
Who can participate?
The contest is open to Nigerians aged 15 to 35.
Participants are expected to submit original works that align with the theme. Submitted works must not have previously won an award.
Application deadline
Interested Nigerians have until October 5, 2026, to submit their entries.
Applicants are advised to carefully review the requirements, complete the application questions and upload their creative work before the deadline.
According to the published information, winners will be contacted privately and invited to a dinner scheduled for October 23, 2026, where the prizes are expected to be presented.
The contest provides young Nigerian creatives with an opportunity to combine artistic expression with conversations about mental health and wellbeing.
Those interested are encouraged to submit their entries before the closing date.
