The Poetry Journal unveils the shortlisted writers for the Poetry Journal 2024 Issue which comprises African writers; Abu Ibrahim (IB), Emmanuel G G Yamba, Olawunmi Shobola, Shiloh Okparanma and Nosakhare Peter Osarenren.
The Poetry Journal is dedicated to redefining African narratives by celebrating the diverse and multifaceted stories of the continent. They focus on presenting literature that goes beyond political and social themes, showcasing individual adventures, family and community life, culture, romance, humor, and personal experiences following their mission which is to provide a platform for African writers to tell their unique and personal stories, creating a more balanced and complete portrayal of Africa and its people.
The Poetry Journal 2024 Shortlist.
- Blood Ties, Abu Ibrahim (IB)
- Born Again, Nosakhare Peter Osarenren
- Postpartum Depression In Men, Shiloh Okparanma
- Premonition, Olawunmi Shobola
- What Came Out As A Poem, Emmanuel G G Yamba
Abu Ibrahim (IB) is a published Nigerian poet. He is the recipient of the Lagos State University (LASU) Debate Society Impact Maker Award for Storytelling and Outstanding Impact, and the 2023 winner of the Port Harcourt Poetry Festival Poetry/Spoken Word Poetry Album of the Year , for his debut poetry album; ‘Music Has Failed Us’. He has also performed at the Pa Gya Literary Festival in Ghana, Lagos International Poetry Festival, Say It Out, Lagos and more.
Nosakhare Peter Osarenren was born in Edo State Nigeria, and holds a Bachelor’s in Law from the University of Benin. His book, “For Him”, a chapbook of Christian poetry, explores themes of trust and submission. Some of his live performances include ‘Dear African,’ performed at the Rehab Lounge in Benin City, and ‘ Pots and Kettles’ performed at Nosana Studios, Edo Global Art Foundation, etc.
Shiloh Okparanma is a writer and poet resident in Rivers State. He is a graduate of the University of Port Harcourt and founder of a literary community during his university days. He enjoys reading fictional novels with poetic profoundness (with his favorite being ‘The Beautiful Ones Are Not Yet Born’).
Olawunmi Shobola is a Nigerian lawyer based in Toronto, Canada. She finds self-expression through poetry, short stories and drawing. She is currently working on a collection of literary works for publication.
Emmanuel G G Yamba writes from Monrovia, Liberia. He’s a graduate of the University of Liberia and SprinNG Advancement Fellowship. His work has been featured and forthcoming in The Shallow Tales Review, The MUSE, SprinNG, Inkspired, Funminiyi Anthologies, Libretto Magazine, Salamander Ink, African Writer, Kalahari Review, Odd Mag., Rigorous, TVO Tribe, Ibadan Arts, An anthology for Abunic and elsewhere.
The winners of the award will be announced on July 1. Our prizes include ₦100,000 to the Prize Winner, ₦50,000 to the First Runner-Up, ₦25,000 to the Second Runner-Up.
Congratulations to all shortlisted poets!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
