Codros Asset Management Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and financial literacy by presenting the grand prize to the winners of the prestigious Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Secondary School Essay Competition.
In a ceremony filled with academic excellence and forward-thinking discourse, the “Star Girls” of the competition were awarded a total prize pool of N250,000. Beyond the cash reward, the funds serve as a “seed investment,” managed by Codros to instill a culture of wealth creation in the students from an early age.
Debating the Future: AI and Robotics
This year’s competition saw brilliant young minds tackle one of the most pressing global issues: “AI and Robotics: The Positive and Negative Effects on the Job Sector in Nigeria.” The participants demonstrated profound insight into how automation will reshape the Nigerian economic landscape, balancing the fears of job displacement with the potential for massive technological advancement.
Representing Gbolahan Aina, the Managing Director of Codros Asset Management Limited, Adenike Ogunyale Vice-President Cordros Asset Management Limited, emphasized that the firm’s involvement transcends mere corporate social responsibility.
“Codros is deeply passionate about education and financial literacy for children and young adults. We want to revive the saving culture in them,” Ogunyale stated. “Imagine if they have this information now; when they face future challenges regarding fund management, income, and expenses, they will be naturally grounded. This is why we don’t play with the LCCI competition. We provide this seed fund to start their investment journey, managing it for them until they are ready to use it for a Master’s degree or to launch their own businesses.”
Adedoyin Ekundayo, representing the LCCI, an advocacy-based body with a 137-year legacy, recalled the competition’s inception during the 30th edition of the Lagos International Trade Fair ten years ago.
“We wanted to add something meaningful to the trade fair that allowed young people to discuss topical economic issues,” Ekundayo explained. “As an NGO, we provide the platform, but the sustainability of this initiative relies on partners. For four years now, Codros Asset Management has been the backbone of this laudable project.”
The 2026 “Star Girls” represent the bright future of Nigeria’s professional landscape:
The 1st Position winner, Aluko Rhoda of Oriwu Senior Model College, Ikorodu, an aspiring lawyer, Rhoda credited her school’s intense investment in debate and academic excellence for her success.
The 2nd Position, Olalekan Muyibat of Eric Moore Senior High School, Lagos, who aims to become a Public Administrator, highlighted her school’s dedication to producing top-tier students.
3rd Position winner, Isabella Oyeleye of Caleb British International School, Lekki, a future Software Engineer, Isabella noted that her school’s modern tools and resources have been instrumental in her consistent performance in national competitions.
