COAS Rewards Young Talents, Calls for Youth Role in National Security
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has rewarded outstanding young Nigerians who excelled in academic and creative competitions, urging the nation’s youth to play an active role in promoting national security and unity.
Shaibu made the call on Saturday during the presentation of cash prizes to winners of the Quiz, Debate, Essay, Poetry and Arts Competitions organised as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026).
He said the competitions were designed to nurture critical thinking, innovation, patriotism and responsible citizenship among young Nigerians while strengthening the relationship between the Nigerian Army and educational institutions.
According to the COAS, achieving lasting national security requires a whole-of-society approach, with young people playing a pivotal role in fostering national unity, resilience and sustainable peace.
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Among the award recipients was Officer Cadet Olokor Razak Oghale of the Nigerian Defence Academy, who won the tertiary poetry category. Also honoured were Master Shittu Muyide Marvel, a 500-level Medical Sciences student of the University of Ilorin, who emerged winner of the Arts Competition, and Master Abdulmalik Ibrahim, a 400-level Computer Science student of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, who placed third in the tertiary arts category.
Other winners included Master Emmanuel Chibuzo Chukwu, Master Daniel Akinyiwola, Miss Amen Gloria, Miss Amina Mustapha and Miss Angel Olaedo Egbukohia, who distinguished themselves in various poetry categories.
Shaibu said recognising academic and creative excellence was part of the Nigerian Army’s broader commitment to inspiring the next generation of patriotic leaders and strengthening civil-military relations.
He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to building strategic partnerships with young Nigerians, noting that investing in their intellectual potential is essential to fostering a secure, united and prosperous nation.
The awards formed part of activities commemorating the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration, which continues with programmes aimed at promoting professionalism, national unity and stronger engagement between the military and the public.
By PRNigeria
