In furtherance of its civil-military cooperation efforts, the Nigerian Army has awarded cash prizes to outstanding students within the 81 Division Area of Responsibility who emerged winners in the 2nd edition of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Literary Competition 2025.
The event, held on June 26, 2025, at the 81 Division Headquarters, Kofo Abayomi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, was part of activities commemorating the Nigerian Army’s 162nd Anniversary Day Celebration (NADCEL 2025). The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa.
Addressing the participants, Major General Mijinyawa congratulated the awardees on their academic accomplishments, urging them to remain focused and disciplined in their educational pursuits. He also commended the efforts of parents and teachers, highlighting their crucial role in nurturing the character and intellect of the students.
Top prize recipients included Morenikeji Ebunoluwa Joshua of Federal College of Education Staff School Osiele, Ogun State, who emerged first in the Primary Arts category, receiving ₦250,000. In the Secondary Essay category, Edgar-Okoh Tehila Ozioma of Command Day Secondary School Ikeja, Lagos, won first place with a cash prize of ₦600,000. Ofulue Ekene of Babington Macaulay Junior Secondary School, Ikorodu, Lagos, took second place with ₦250,000, while Oluwadare Marvelous John of Treasure Home School, Ifo, Ogun State, came third with ₦100,000.
In the Secondary Arts category, Alexis Agenhta of Square College, Lekki, Lagos, secured third place and received ₦100,000. Cheques were presented to the winners during the ceremony, as parents and school representatives watched proudly.
Speaking on behalf of the parents, Mrs. Naomi Edgar-Okoh expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff and the 81 Division leadership for fostering academic excellence and creating a platform for intellectual development.
Meanwhile, the GOC 81 Division reaffirmed the Division’s commitment to border security through enhanced collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service. During a courtesy visit by Comptroller Muhammad Shuaibu of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, the GOC emphasized the need for continuous synergy in tackling smuggling and promoting a secure economic environment.
Comptroller Shuaibu commended the Division for its consistent support and highlighted the critical role of military assistance in boosting Customs enforcement efforts. The visit concluded with the signing of the visitors’ book, exchange of souvenirs, and group photographs.