Chief Of Army Staff Literary Competition 2026: Win Up To ₦10 Million in Cash Prizes
Introduction
The Nigerian Army has launched the second edition of the prestigious Chief Of Army Staff (COAS) Literary Competition 2026, presenting an extraordinary opportunity for Nigerian students to showcase their creative talents while competing for a staggering ₦10 million in total prize money. This nationwide competition seeks to engage young minds across all educational levels—from primary school pupils to undergraduate students—in celebrating Nigeria’s military heritage while promoting literacy and creative expression.
If you’re a Nigerian student looking for scholarship opportunities or ways to earn substantial cash rewards through your academic talents, the COAS Literary Competition represents one of the most lucrative platforms available in 2025-2026. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this exceptional opportunity.
About the Chief Of Army Staff Literary Competition
Competition Overview
Organized by the Nigerian Army under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, this literary competition has been designed with the theme “The Nigerian Army: Securing the People and Promoting Development.” The competition runs from October 1, 2024, through March 31, 2026, giving participants ample time to craft outstanding entries.
The competition encompasses three distinct categories:
- COAS Essay Competition
- COAS Art Competition
- COAS Poetry Competition
Each category is subdivided into three age groups, ensuring fair competition among peers while encouraging participation from students at different educational stages.
Why This Competition Matters
For students exploring education opportunities in Nigeria, the COAS Literary Competition offers more than just prize money. It provides:
- National Recognition: Winners receive certificates and public acknowledgment from one of Nigeria’s most respected institutions
- Portfolio Building: Winning entries can significantly strengthen university applications and career portfolios
- Creative Development: Participants hone their writing, artistic, and analytical skills
- Financial Support: Prize money can support educational expenses or serve as startup capital for future ventures
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Eligibility Requirements: Who Can Apply?
Age Categories and Eligibility
The competition welcomes Nigerian students across three age brackets:
1. Primary School Category (Ages 5-11 Years) This category targets young learners who are beginning their creative writing and artistic journey. Students must be currently enrolled in primary schools within Nigeria.
2. Secondary School Category (Ages 12-17 Years) Junior and senior secondary school students can participate in this category, provided they meet the age requirement and are actively enrolled in Nigerian secondary institutions.
3. Tertiary Institution Category (Ages 18-24 Years) Undergraduate students from polytechnics, colleges of education, and universities across Nigeria are eligible to compete in this category.
General Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Chief Of Army Staff Literary Competition, applicants must:
- Be Nigerian citizens
- Fall within the specified age range for their chosen category
- Be currently enrolled in a Nigerian educational institution
- Submit original work without any traces of plagiarism
- Meet the deadline of March 31, 2026
Important Note: Similar to requirements for international scholarship applications, authenticity is paramount. Any entry discovered to be plagiarized at any stage will be immediately disqualified.
Competition Categories Explained
1. COAS Essay Competition
The essay competition challenges participants to explore various aspects of the Nigerian Army’s role in national security and development.
Essay Requirements:
- Primary/Secondary Schools: Maximum 2,000 words
- Tertiary Institutions: Between 3,000-5,000 words
- Topics must align with the central theme
- Essays must reflect original thoughts and research
- Proper citation where necessary
Writing Tips:
- Research the Nigerian Army’s community development initiatives
- Include specific examples of security operations
- Balance military achievements with humanitarian efforts
- Demonstrate critical thinking and analytical depth
2. COAS Art Competition
Visual artists can express their interpretation of the competition theme through various artistic mediums.
Art Competition Guidelines:
- Artwork must visually represent the theme
- All art forms are acceptable (painting, drawing, digital art, etc.)
- Submit high-quality photographs/scans of artwork
- Include a brief artist statement explaining the concept
3. COAS Poetry Competition
Poetry enthusiasts can craft verses celebrating Nigeria’s military heritage and developmental contributions.
Poetry Requirements:
- Poems should reflect the competition theme
- Any poetry style is acceptable (free verse, sonnet, spoken word, etc.)
- Focus on originality and creative expression
- Length should be appropriate for the age category
Prize Structure: ₦10 Million in Total Rewards
Primary School Category (Ages 5-11)
Each competition track offers:
- 1st Position: ₦250,000
- 2nd Position: ₦100,000
- 3rd Position: ₦50,000
Total per category: ₦400,000 Combined total for all three competitions: ₦1,200,000
Secondary School Category (Ages 12-17)
Each competition track offers:
- 1st Position: ₦600,000
- 2nd Position: ₦250,000
- 3rd Position: ₦100,000
Total per category: ₦950,000 Combined total for all three competitions: ₦2,850,000
Tertiary Institution Category (Ages 18-24)
Each competition track offers:
- 1st Position: ₦1,000,000
- 2nd Position: ₦500,000
- 3rd Position: ₦200,000
Total per category: ₦1,700,000 Combined total for all three competitions: ₦5,100,000
Grand Total Across All Categories: Over ₦10 Million in prize money plus certificates of achievement.
For students also exploring study abroad opportunities, these winnings can serve as valuable startup funds for international education expenses.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
For Primary and Secondary School Students
Step 1: Complete Online Registration Visit the Nigerian Army’s official COAS Literary Competition portal and fill out the online application form.
Step 2: Obtain School Endorsement
- Print the completed application form
- Present it to your Head of School for endorsement
- Ensure the form is properly stamped with the school’s official seal
- Obtain the principal’s signature
Step 3: Scan and Upload
- Scan the endorsed application form
- Upload it along with your competition entry
- Ensure all documents are clear and legible
Step 4: Submit Entry Upload your essay, artwork, or poem to the designated portal before the March 31, 2026 deadline.
For Tertiary Institution Students
Step 1: Online Registration Complete your registration directly on the tertiary institution portal without requiring school endorsement.
Step 2: Prepare Your Entry Ensure your submission meets all word count and formatting requirements.
Step 3: Submit Upload your entry through the official portal before the deadline.
Assessment Process
The competition employs a rigorous two-level assessment system:
Level 1: Initial Screening
- All entries undergo preliminary evaluation
- Entries are assessed for originality, relevance to theme, and compliance with guidelines
- Shortlisted candidates advance to Level 2
Level 2: Virtual Assessment
- Shortlisted candidates participate in virtual interactions with assessment panels
- Assessors evaluate depth of understanding, creativity, and presentation skills
- Final winners are selected based on cumulative scores
Pro Tip: Similar to preparing for scholarship interviews, candidates should be ready to discuss their entries thoroughly and defend their creative choices during virtual assessments.
Tips for Creating Winning Entries
For Essay Writers
- Conduct Thorough Research: Understand the Nigerian Army’s contemporary role
- Use Concrete Examples: Reference specific operations, programs, or achievements
- Maintain Academic Rigor: Cite sources appropriately and maintain formal writing standards
- Edit Ruthlessly: Proofread multiple times for grammar, spelling, and coherence
- Stay Within Word Limits: Respect the specified word count requirements
For Artists
- Conceptual Clarity: Ensure your artwork clearly communicates your interpretation of the theme
- Technical Excellence: Demonstrate proficiency in your chosen medium
- Original Perspective: Avoid clichéd representations; offer fresh visual narratives
- Documentation: Photograph your artwork in good lighting with high resolution
For Poets
- Authentic Voice: Let your unique poetic voice shine through
- Thematic Coherence: Every stanza should connect to the central theme
- Literary Devices: Employ metaphors, similes, alliteration, and other techniques effectively
- Emotional Resonance: Create poetry that moves readers intellectually and emotionally
Important Deadlines and Dates
- Competition Launch: October 1, 2024
- Submission Deadline: March 31, 2026
- Winners Announcement: To be communicated via email, school notifications, and official website
- Award Ceremony: Date and venue to be announced to winners
Critical Reminder: Late submissions will NOT be considered. Plan to submit at least one week before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical difficulties.
Additional Benefits Beyond Prize Money
Publication Opportunities
The Nigerian Army reserves the right to publish outstanding entries in military journals and periodicals, providing winners with valuable publication credits for future career opportunities.
Networking Potential
Winners and finalists gain access to a network of military leaders, educators, and fellow talented students across Nigeria.
Resume Enhancement
Recognition from a prestigious national competition significantly strengthens university applications, especially for students considering international education opportunities.
Skill Development
Participants develop research, writing, artistic, and presentation skills that prove invaluable throughout their academic and professional careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I submit entries in multiple categories? A: Yes, students may participate in essay, art, and poetry competitions simultaneously if they meet the age requirements.
Q: Are there restrictions on essay topics? A: Topics must relate to the theme “The Nigerian Army: Securing the People and Promoting Development,” but participants have creative freedom within this framework.
Q: How will winners be notified? A: Winners will be contacted via email, through their schools, and announced on the official competition webpage.
Q: Can I use previously written work? A: No. All entries must be original work created specifically for this competition.
Q: What happens if plagiarism is detected after winning? A: Winners found guilty of plagiarism will be disqualified and required to return prize money and certificates.
Conclusion
The Chief Of Army Staff Literary Competition 2026 represents an exceptional opportunity for Nigerian students to earn substantial financial rewards while developing their creative talents. With ₦10 million in total prizes, rigorous but fair assessment processes, and benefits extending far beyond monetary compensation, this competition deserves serious consideration from every ambitious student.
Whether you’re a primary school student taking your first steps in creative writing, a secondary school scholar honing your craft, or an undergraduate demonstrating advanced literary prowess, the COAS Literary Competition offers a platform for recognition, growth, and reward.
Don’t miss this chance to showcase your talents, represent your school, and potentially win life-changing prize money. Begin preparing your entry today, and remember—the deadline of March 31, 2026, will arrive sooner than you think.
For more opportunities like this, including fully-funded scholarships, study abroad programs, and career development resources, continue exploring NaijOnline for the latest updates and opportunities.
Ready to Apply? Visit the official Nigerian Army COAS Literary Competition portal to begin your application today. Your creative journey to ₦10 million starts now!
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