81 Division Promotes Innovation Through Command Schools Research Competition

The 81 Division of the Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting innovation, research, and intellectual development among students through the 2026 edition of the Annual Inter-Command Secondary Schools Research, Development and Innovation Competition.

The Acting Director of 81 Division Education Services, Colonel O.A. Olubo, stated this while declaring the competition open at Command Day Secondary School, T.A. Lagbaja Cantonment, Ikeja, Lagos.

Colonel Olubo described the initiative as more than a routine academic exercise, noting that it serves as a strategic platform for nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students within the Nigerian Army Command School system.

She explained that the Nigerian Army Education Corps was established on the principle that military strength is determined not only by firepower but also by intellectual capacity and innovation.

According to her, the corps has continued to evolve into a strong hub for research and development by integrating innovation-driven programmes into the Command Schools curriculum.

Colonel Olubo noted that many of the world’s greatest inventions began with curiosity and the courage to think differently. “The competition is not only about building prototypes or presenting data; it is about having the courage to ask ‘why’ and ‘what if,’” she said.

She encouraged participating students to embrace resilience, creativity, and curiosity, stressing that failed experiments are important steps in the innovation process.

The Acting Director also commended teachers, mentors, and evaluators for their dedication to nurturing young talents and sustaining the vision of intellectual empowerment within the Nigerian Army Education Corps.

The event featured research presentations and innovative projects from students representing various Command Secondary Schools under the 81 Division.

Organisers say the competition is expected to strengthen academic excellence, leadership, and critical thinking among students, while preparing them to contribute meaningfully to national development and future technological advancement.