“Chief of Army Staff Honours Top Essay and Poetry Winners in 2026 Army Schools Literary Competition”
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) has recognized and rewarded outstanding students who emerged as winners in the 2026 Chief of Army Staff Literary Competition, celebrating excellence in essay writing and poetry across Nigerian Army schools.
The award ceremony brought together students, educators, military officials, and invited guests to honour young writers whose creativity, critical thinking, and literary skills distinguished them in this year’s competition. Organized annually, the COAS Literary Competition is designed to promote academic excellence, encourage a culture of reading and writing, and inspire students within the Nigerian Army school system to express themselves through literature.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Army Staff commended the winners for their exceptional performances and encouraged all students to continue pursuing academic excellence alongside discipline and leadership. He noted that literacy, innovation, and intellectual development remain essential pillars in shaping responsible citizens and future national leaders.
The competition featured participants from various Nigerian Army primary and secondary schools nationwide, with students competing in essay and poetry categories. The best entries were selected after a rigorous assessment process conducted by education professionals and literary experts.
Education stakeholders at the ceremony described the initiative as a valuable platform for nurturing creativity, strengthening communication skills, and encouraging healthy academic competition among students. They also praised the Nigerian Army’s continued investment in educational development through its network of schools.
The recognition of the winners reflects the Nigerian Army’s broader commitment to supporting quality education, talent development, and character building among young Nigerians. Organisers expressed optimism that the annual literary competition will continue to inspire future generations of writers, scholars, and leaders.