The CAS’ 2026 Literary Competitions offer you an opportunity to showcase your talent in the Nigerian Air Force Chief of the Air Staff Literary Competitions for NAF Day 2026.
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When is the Application Deadline:
28 February 2026
Tell Me About The Competition:
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Chief of the Air Staff Literary Competition 2026 is a national contest designed to encourage creativity, critical thinking, and innovation among Nigerian students. Initiated by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the competition provides a platform for young Nigerians to express ideas and perspectives on contemporary security and technology-related issues.
The competition runs across three categories: Essay, Poetry, and Art, with participation open to students in primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions. A total of ₦10.5 million in cash prizes will be awarded, alongside certificates and recognition.
Which Categories are Eligible?
- Essay Competition (Tertiary Institutions)
- Ages 18–24
- Essay based on NAF Day 2026 theme: “Optimizing Emerging Technologies for Enhanced Air Operations”
- Maximum length: 2,000 words
- Must be original work
- Poetry Competition (Secondary Schools)
- Ages 12–17
- Poem must align with NAF Day 2026 theme
- Maximum length: 300 words
- Must be in English and original
- Art Competition (Primary Schools)
- Ages 5–11
- Artwork limited to painting and drawing
- Must align with NAF Day 2026 theme
- Original work with caption/title
Type:
National Literary Competition (Essay, Poetry, Art).
Who can Apply?
- Nigerian students in:
- Primary schools (ages 5–11)
- Secondary schools (ages 12–17)
- Tertiary institutions (ages 18–24)
How are Winners Selected?
- Entries judged on creativity, originality, and alignment with the NAF Day 2026 theme.
- Submissions must meet word/format requirements and be uploaded via official portals.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Nigeria only.
Where will the Competition be Taken?
Nationwide (entries submitted online).
How Many Prizes?
Total prize pool: ₦10.5 million
- Essay Competition (Tertiary)
- 1st: ₦2,000,000
- 2nd: ₦1,500,000
- 3rd: ₦1,000,000
- Poetry Competition (Secondary)
- 1st: ₦1,500,000
- 2nd: ₦1,250,000
- 3rd: ₦1,000,000
- Art Competition (Primary)
- 1st: ₦1,000,000
- 2nd: ₦750,000
- 3rd: ₦500,000
What is the Benefit of the Competition?
- Cash prizes totaling ₦10.5 million.
- Certificates and recognition.
- Opportunity to showcase creativity and contribute ideas to national discourse.
How to Apply:
- Confirm eligibility based on age and institution level.
- Prepare your entry (essay, poem, or artwork) aligned with the NAF Day 2026 theme.
- Upload entry to the official portal:
- Ensure file formats meet requirements (PDF ≤ 1MB, photo ≤ 150KB).
- Submit by 28 February 2026.

