Press release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DAKAR / ABUJA
2 March 2026
Step Up Nigeria (SUN), in partnership with the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa (PPLAAF), has launched the 2026 World Whistleblower Day Art and Media Competition to amplify youth voices in promoting whistleblowing and whistleblower protection in Nigeria.
The competition aligns with the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), specifically Article 33, which encourages States Parties to implement measures that protect individuals who report corruption in good faith. Through creative expression, this initiative seeks to enhance public awareness, stimulate public interest, strengthen advocacy for whistleblower protection frameworks, and inspire collective action against corruption.
As part of the programme, Step Up Nigeria will also release two educational podcasts; one featuring expert insights on whistleblowing and legal protections, and another showcasing the winning participants and their creative works.
ABOUT THE COMPETITION
The competition invites Nigerian youth to submit original creative works including artwork, short skits, songs, spoken word performances, articles, and short stories that highlight themes such as:
- The role of whistleblowers in exposing wrongdoing
- The importance of transparency and accountability in governance
- The risks that whistleblowers face when they are not provided solid legal protection
- The urgent need for effective legal protections against retaliation
The competition runs from March to June 2026 and is open exclusively to Nigerian residents aged 15–35 years. Participants under 18 must provide written parental or guardian consent.
All submissions must be original works created without the use of artificial intelligence for content generation (AI tools may be used for editing only). Screening mechanisms will ensure compliance.
There is no entry fee, and winners will receive cash and other prizes, and recognition for their work.
Full eligibility criteria, submission guidelines, and timelines are available on Step Up Nigeria’s website and communication platforms.
QUOTES
Shekwogaza Kure, Communications Manager, Step Up Nigeria, said:
“Young people have the power to shape culture and shift norms. Through art and media, this competition gives them a platform to promote integrity, encourage responsible reporting, and build trust in public institutions. Whistleblowing is not betrayal, it is an act of courage that strengthens democracy.”
Feranmi Iyanda, Director of Programmes, Step Up Nigeria, added:
“Protecting whistleblowers is essential to fighting corruption effectively. We call on policymakers, government institutions, media, and civil society to strengthen reporting mechanisms, safeguard individuals who speak out in the public interest, and ensure accountability systems work for citizens.”
Jimmy Kande, Executive Director of PPLAAF, said:
“Across Africa, whistleblowers play a vital role in exposing corruption and abuse of power. Supporting youth engagement on this issue is critical to building a culture where speaking up is protected, valued, and encouraged.”
PARTNERS
This programme is implemented by Step Up Nigeria in partnership with the Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa.
About Step Up Nigeria
Step Up Nigeria is a non-profit organisation dedicated to bridging the gap between citizens and government to reduce corruption and improve public service delivery. Through creative education tools, storytelling campaigns, and community engagement, it empowers young people with the values and skills needed to build a society rooted in integrity and accountability.
Visit: www.stepupnigeria.org
About Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa (PPLAAF)
The Platform to Protect Whistleblowers in Africa is an organisation that supports whistleblowers whose disclosures speak to the public interest of African citizens. PPLAAF ensures whistleblowers are protected, amplifies the reach and impact of their disclosures, and advocates for stronger legal protections across the continent.
Visit: www.pplaaf.org
