In the world of African literature, the Nigeria Prize for Literature stands as a beacon of excellence and creativity. Sponsored by Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), this prestigious award has been shaping the literary landscape since 2004. As we approach the climax of the 2024 edition, let’s take a comprehensive look at the prize, its significance, and what’s in store for this year.
What is the Nigeria Prize for Literature?
The Nigeria Prize for Literature, often referred to as the NLNG Prize, is one of Africa’s most coveted literary awards. With a substantial prize of $100,000, it’s not just the monetary value that attracts attention, but the prestige and recognition that comes with it.
One of the unique aspects of this prize is its rotating focus. Each year, the award spotlights a different genre of literature, cycling through four categories:
- Prose Fiction
- Poetry
- Drama
- Children’s Literature
This rotation ensures that various forms of literary expression get their moment in the spotlight, fostering a diverse and vibrant literary scene in Nigeria.
Children’s Literature Takes The Spotlight in 2024
This year, the prize focuses on Children’s Literature, a category that last came into focus in 2019 with Chukwudi Eze’s The Hero of Ala taking home the top prize. The significance of this category cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in shaping young minds and fostering a love for reading from an early age.
The Longlist
On July 13, 2024, the advisory board for the Nigeria Prize for Literature revealed the longlisted books for this year’s competition. These selected 11 titles represent the cream of Nigerian children’s literature:
- A Father’s Pride by Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmo
- Bode’s Birthday Party by Akanni Festus Olaniyi
- Grandma and the Moon’s Hidden Secret by Jumoke Verissimo
- Mighty Mite and Golden Jewel by Henry Akubuiro
- Risi Recycle: The Dustbin Girl by Temiloluwa Adeshina
- The Children at the IDP Camp by Olatunbosun Taofeek
- The Magic Jalabiya by Ayo Adeliyi Oyeku
- The Road Does Not End by Familoni Oluranti Olubunmi
- The Third Side of a Coin by Hyginus Ekwuazi
- Village Boy by Anietie Usen
- Wish Maker by Uchechkwu Peter Umezurike
Following the announcement of the longlist, NLNG traditionally hosts its annual Book Party, which brings together authors, critics, and literature enthusiasts to celebrate the longlisted works and generate excitement for the prize. This year’s Book Party, held on August 17 in Lagos, saw guests from across Africa and beyond coming together to honour the 11 authors longlisted for the 2024 Nigeria Prize for Literature. Since its inception in 2004, the Book Party has been a key highlight, offering a platform to celebrate excellence and, creativity, and promote outstanding Nigerian books to the world
What’s Next?
The literary community is eagerly awaiting the announcement of the shortlist, expected this September. This will narrow down the contenders to the top three books. The ultimate winner will be unveiled in October, as decided by the Advisory Board chaired by Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo.
Looking Back at Past Winners of the Nigeria Prize for Literature
To appreciate the journey of the Nigeria Prize for Literature, let’s look at all past winners of the prize since its inception:
- 2023 (Drama): Grit by Obari Gomba
- 2022 (Poetry): Nomad by Romeo Oriogun
- 2021 (Prose Fiction): No winner was declared
- 2020 (Prose Fiction): The Son of the House by Cheluchi Onyemelukwe
- 2019 (Children’s Literature): Boom Boom by Jude Idada
- 2018 (Drama): Embers by Soji Cole
- 2017 (Poetry): The Heresiad by Ikeogu Oke
- 2016(Prose): Season of Crimson Blossoms by Abubakar Adam Ibrahim
- 2015 (Children’s Literature): No Winner was declared
- 2014 (Drama): Iredi War by Sam Ukala
- 2013 (Poetry): The Sahara Testaments by Tade Ipadeola
- 2012(Prose): On Black Sisters Street by Chika Unigwe
- 2011 (Children’s Literature): The Missing Clock by Adeleke Adeyemi
- 2010 (Drama, Posthumous): Cemetery Road by Esiaba Irob
- 2009 (Poetry): No winner was declared
- 2008 (Prose): Yellow Yellow by Kaine Agary
- 2007 (Shared Prize): Mabel Segun, Readers’ Theatre: Twelve Plays for Young People (Children’s Literature), Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, My Cousin Sammy (Children’s Literature)
- 2006 (Drama): Hard Ground by Ahmed Yerima
- 2005 (Shared Prize): Gabriel Okara, The Dreamer: His Vision (Poetry), Ezenwa Ohaeto, Chants of Minstrel (Poetry)
- 2004 (Prose): No winner was declared
It’s worth noting that 2021 saw no winner declared, as the judges felt no entry met the required standard. This speaks to the high bar set by the prize, ensuring only the best works are recognized.
In 2019, when Children’s Literature was last in focus, Chukwudi Eze’s The Hero of Ala emerged victorious. The book was praised for its imaginative storytelling and its exploration of Igbo culture and mythology.
The Nigeria Prize for Literature has become more than just an award, it’s like a resounding ovation pushing Nigerian authors to produce works of the highest quality. By rotating through different genres, it ensures a well-rounded development of Nigerian literature. Moreover, the prize has put Nigerian literature on the global map, attracting international attention to the rich storytelling traditions of the country.
Looking Ahead
As we anticipate the winner reveal in October, the excitement in the Nigerian literary scene is palpable. This year’s focus on children’s literature is particularly significant, as it has the potential to shape the reading habits of the next generation of Nigerians.
The Nigeria Prize for Literature continues to be proof of the power of storytelling and the enduring importance of literature in shaping culture, fostering understanding, and inspiring generations.
Stay tuned for updates as we approach the exciting conclusion of this year’s Nigeria Prize for Literature!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
