LAGOS/Nigeria: Mrs. Ezinne Azunna, Convener/Project Coordinator of The Maritime Writes Project (MWP), has announced the commencement of the Dr Emeka Akabogu Maritime Writing Challenge (DEAM WRICH).
This was contained in an official statement released on Monday in Lagos.
The challenge, dedicated to commemorating Akabogu’s 50th birthday, aims to foster learning and creativity among young individuals through research and writing endeavors.
Azunna highlighted that the competition, organized in collaboration with the committee overseeing Akabogu’s 50th birthday celebrations, will focus on recreating reported Nigerian maritime cases as compelling stories of up to 6,000 words. Embracing the style of acclaimed Nigerian historian and lawyer, Onigegewura, participants are encouraged to weave narratives around the theme: “Resurrecting the Dry Bones of the Law.”
Addressing the criteria for participation, Azunna emphasized the eligibility of individuals aged between 18 and 30, particularly encouraging undergraduate students, especially those in Law programs across Nigerian universities, to engage in the challenge. The deadline for submission of entries is slated for Jan. 1, 2024.
Detailing the rewards, Azunna revealed that the top three winners will receive cash prizes: N250,000 for the first prize, N150,000 for the second, and N100,000 for the third. The announcement of winners is scheduled to take place during the 50th Birthday Lecture and Books Presentation on Jan. 26, 2024.
Azunna also highlighted Akabogu’s groundbreaking achievements, noting his distinction as the first Nigerian and African PhD awardee in the International Maritime Law Institute’s three-decade history. Akabogu’s extensive involvement in various roles within the maritime sphere, including his authorship of significant publications like “Ship Arrest in Nigeria,” which was showcased at the Nigerian Bar Association’s Annual General Conference in August 2022, was emphasized.
The submission guidelines for the challenge stipulate specific formatting requirements, including a cover page with essential details such as the title, author’s name, and age. Entries should not exceed 6,000 words, utilizing 12-point Times New Roman font with single-line spacing. Participants are instructed to cite sources, include law report citations, and submit the final work in PDF format.
DEAM WRICH stands as a testament to the commitment of The Maritime Writes Project in fostering scholarly engagement and creative expression among the youth, while also celebrating the illustrious career and contributions of Dr. Emeka Akabogu to the maritime legal landscape..
