The National Orientation Agency has kicked off a N22.5 million animation competition to get creators telling stories that capture what it means to be Nigerian, betting on short films to rally folks around shared values at a time when the country's identity feels more divided than ever.

The push, unveiled as part of the Nigerian Identity Project, invites artists to whip up three-minute clips in 2D, 3D, or stop-motion that nod to the National Values Charter's seven promises and citizen codes. Top spot snags N10 million, second N7.5 million, third N5 million, with winners getting three months of nationwide airtime to spread the word.

It's open to all Nigerians, and the 2026 theme—"Who is a Real Nigerian?"—aims to spotlight resilience, optimism, and ingenuity amid tough times.NOA boss Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu called it a call to arms for animators to "unleash creativity" and knit the nation closer. "The NVC outlines who we are and what unites us—through this award, we invite creators to bring those ideals to life," he said at the launch, tying it to a broader effort to counter apathy and division.

The contest couldn't come at a better—or tougher—moment. With youth unemployment hovering at 40% and social media buzzing with gripes over everything from economic woes to cultural clashes, NOA sees animation as a fresh way to build bridges.

Past efforts like radio jingles and town halls have had mixed results, but Issa-Onilu insists visuals will hit harder, especially with Nigeria's booming animation scene—think studios like Greentree and Kugali cranking out global hits.

Entrants have until early 2026 to submit, to be judged on storytelling punch and value alignment with winners to be celebrated at the LIFANIMA Awards Night.