The journey to crown the winner of The Nigeria Prize for Literature has reached a decisive stage, as the Advisory Board unveils the three novels that advanced to the final shortlist.
The finalists are:
- This Motherless Land by Nikki May
- The Road to the Country by Chigozie Obioma
- Sanya by Oyin Olugbile
Chaired by Associate Professor Saeedat Bolajoko Aliyu of the Department of English, Kwara State University with help from Professor Stephen Mbanefo Ogene, Professor of Comparative Literature at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and Mr. Olakunle Kasumu, writer, filmmaker, producer, and host of Channels Television’s Book Club, one of these authors will receive the $100,000 award at the grand ceremony scheduled for October 10, 2025.
Reflecting on the announcement, Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, chair of the Advisory Board for the prize says:
“The shortlist before us is exceptional. Each work distinguishes itself through masterful plotting, characterisation, and a good command of language that transports readers into imagined worlds. These are not merely stories, they are carefully woven realities. They are compelling in their beauty, stirring in their emotional resonance, and unflinching in their engagement with familiar yet urgent societal issues. The way the writers handled and resolved conflict highlights their skill and literary standing, making these works quite outstanding.“
“Our task, therefore, is clear. It is to choose the most deserving laureate for The Nigeria Prize for Literature, 2025. This cycle has been one of the most competitive yet, with every entry showing an impressive level of excellence that stretched our judgement to the limit. Still, we remain committed to excellence, honouring outstanding writings and keeping alive the vital conversation around Nigerian literature.“
“We commend all the authors who submitted their works this year. It has been inspiring to witness such creativity and passion. On behalf of Emeritus Professor Olu Obafemi, Professor Ahmed Yerima, and myself, I can say it is a privilege to be part of something so meaningful and honourable.”
The panel praised the shortlisted works, stating:
“Olugbile’s Sanya is a fascinating novel. From the cover to the plot that grabs attention, the author is unrelenting at keeping the story pacey and intriguing.“
“The Road to the Country by Obioma masterfully explores alternative realities alongside a captivating story of love, brotherhood and a devastating war.“
“This Motherless Land is emotionally charged and alluring. The writing is brilliant and the characters riveting. Nikki May successfully straddles the cultures of two different countries.”
Sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited, The Nigeria Prize for Literature rotates annually among four genres: prose fiction, poetry, drama, and children’s literature. Since its inception in 2004, it has remained the continent’s most prestigious literary prize, celebrating excellence and spotlighting Nigerian literature on the global stage.
Congratulations, Nikki May, Chigozie Obioma and Oyin Olugbile!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
