The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has announced the shortlists for the 2025 edition of its annual literary prizes, covering poetry, fiction, drama, non-fiction and children’s literature.
Below are the shortlisted works:
Poetry (ANA/KMVL Prize):
- Stoning the Wind by Gbemisola Adeoti
- Girls and the Silhouette of Form by Star Zahra
- Japa: Elegy of Nigerians by Toyin Shittu
Fiction (ANA/King Dakolo Prize):
- Riddles in the Shadows by Ebi Robert
- Habitat of Ordinary People by Olumide Olutola
- Shackles of Freedom by Onyeka Ike
Drama:
- Colours of Madness by Ikechukwu Asika
- Ogiehgieh the Musical by Davidfnycountry Austine Ogbadu
- The Great Delusion by Majekodunmi Oseriemen Ebhohon
Non-Fiction (ANA/Sir Chukwuemeka Sam Nwelue Prize):
- Grips of Grief by Ayo Deforge
- The Jungle by David Hundeyin
- Breaking Point by David Hundeyin
Children’s Fiction (ANA/Ngozi Chuma-Udeh Prize):
- The Boy Who Built a Titanic Craft by David Okorafor
- The Children at the IDP Camp by Olatunbosun Taofeek
- The Saint Sisters Mystery Club by Stephanie Chizoba-Odili
Literary Criticism (ANA/Amina Talaku Zakama Prize):
- No entries received
Founded in 1981 by Chinua Achebe and other prominent Nigerian writers, ANA remains the country’s leading literary body, with a mission to promote literature, protect writers’ rights, and inspire a reading culture. The annual prizes are regarded as some of Nigeria’s most prestigious literary honours.
The final winners will be revealed at the ANA convention on November 1.
Congratulations to all shortlisted authors!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
