Akeem Lasisi
Judges of The Nigeria Prize for Literature have again sparked sensation in the literary community and beyond as they have narrowed the 252 entries received this year to 11.
An elated NLNG, founder and sponsor of the enduring prize, announced the longlist on Wednesday.
In a statement by the company’s Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, it recalled how the company had described the 2025 competition as the fiercest upon receiving the entries.
The fact is that the volume was massive while the profiles of many of the writers are compelling.
Announcing the longlist, Palmer-Ikuku wrote: “When we received entries for The Nigeria Prize for Literature earlier in the year, we described this year’s competition as the fiercest yet. In hindsight, that may have been putting it mildly. The longlist is here! And what a lineup it is! The judges had the task of narrowing down a field of truly exceptional works. What we now have is a literary battleground filled with powerful voices, masterful storytelling, and diverse perspectives that showcase the brilliance of Nigerian writing across the world.
“The journey continues, and we are watching an epic narrative unfold. Congratulations to all the longlisted writers! 1. An Unusual Grief by Yewande Omotoso 2. Fine Dreams by Linda Masi 3. Leave my Bones in Saskatoon by Michael Afenfia 4. New York My Village by Uwem Akpan 5. Petrichor The Scent of a New Beginning by Ayo Oyeku 6. Sanya by Oyin Olugbile 7. The Middle Daughter by Chika Unigwe 8. The Road to the Country by Chigozie Obioma 9. This Motherless Land by Nikki May 10. Water Baby by Chioma Okereke 11. When We Were Fireflies by Abubakar Adam Ibrahim.”
Meanwhile, the process is unstoppably on course as the Committee for the Relevant Arts has said the annual CORA- Nigeria Prize for Literature Book Party 2025 will hold on August 3.
“Great stories deserve a great stage and so do the people who help bring them to life. You are invited to the CORA – Nigeria Prize for Literature Book Party 2025, a celebration of the 11 longlisted authors for this year’s prize. It promises to be a vibrant gathering of writers, readers, and everyone who believes in the power of storytelling,” CORA said in a statement.
The programme that will showcase all the longlisted authors will hold at Grand African Ballroom of Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island.
