By Harriet Tornguvan
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has called on Nigerian youths to showcase their creativity and intellectual capacity through the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Literary Competition, an initiative aimed at generating forward-looking ideas capable of shaping the future of air operations and national security.
The competition, which opened on November 21, 2025, and will run until February 28, 2026, is designed to promote youth engagement, informed advocacy and innovative thinking, while nurturing talents that can contribute meaningfully to national development.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the initiative was described as a deliberate effort by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, to provide a dynamic platform for young Nigerians to express ideas, perspectives and creative interpretations on contemporary security and technology-related issues.
According to the statement, the 2025/2026 edition of the competition encourages participation across diverse creative and intellectual outlets, with a view to stimulating critical thinking, deepening interest in emerging technologies and fostering a culture of innovation aligned with the evolving demands of modern airpower.
The competition will be held in three categories—Essay, Art and Poetry—allowing participants to engage the theme through analytical writing and visual expression. The chosen theme, “Optimising Emerging Technologies for Enhanced Air Operations,” reflects the NAF’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to improve operational effectiveness and prepare for future security challenges.
Beyond its competitive focus, the CAS Literary Competition is also aimed at strengthening civil–military relations and empowering young Nigerians to see themselves as active stakeholders in national security and technological advancement. Interested participants are advised to consult the official flyer or poster for details on guidelines, eligibility and submission requirements.
