The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has presented awards to the winners of the third edition of the COAS Literary Competition.

The event took place at the Nigerian Army’s 4 Special Forces Command in Doma, Nasarawa State. The competition is part of activities lined up to mark the Nigerian Army Day Celebration, slated for July 6, 2026.

Speaking at the ceremony, the COAS, represented by Major General Olurotimi Awolo, said the competition aims to promote national consciousness among young citizens. The event featured essay and poetry categories for pupils of Army schools across the country. Participants expressed their views on security, patriotism, and peacebuilding.

Three pupils from Command Children School in Doma emerged as winners. Aminu Zayyanu took second position in the Primary Essay Category and won N250,000. Bright Dorasimi took third position in the Primary Essay Category and received N100,000. Hope Emmanuel took third position in the Primary Poetry Category and also received N100,000.

Major General Awolo praised the winners for making the cantonment proud. The Head Leader of the Command Children School, Hyacinth Vincent-Akuba, said the competition started last year and culminated early this year. He credited the teachers for their dedication and guidance.

The theme for this year’s competition was “The Nigerian Army: The People’s Army, Our Army.” Vincent-Akuba expressed gratitude to the COAS for giving the children the opportunity to express their views. The event highlights the Army’s commitment to fostering education and intellectual development among young Nigerians.