NLNG scrutinises entries for literature prize
Through its Advisory Board and panel of judges, Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) is scrutinising the 223 entries for this year’s Nigeria Prize for Literature. The judges are in Lagos
Through its Advisory Board and panel of judges, Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) is scrutinising the 223 entries for this year’s Nigeria Prize for Literature.
The judges are in Lagos to examine the entries, which have been described as a reflection of a strong outing for the poetry category, broadly in line with recent cycles and demonstrating sustained participation from writers.
Slightly below some peak years, the figure remains competitive, particularly when viewed with recent prose entries, underscoring continued interest in the prize and reaffirming its significance in Nigeria’s literary landscape.
General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development, Dr. Sophia Horsfall, represented by Abdul Umar, Manager of Government Relations, described the handover as the beginning of a rigorous and defining process.
“This is the start of a process that demands attention, patience, and sound judgement, and will determine the work that defines this year’s prize,” she said.
This year’s $100,000 Prize focuses on poetry. Horsfall noted that the genre demands precision, depth, and clarity, with expectations shaped by the strong benchmark set in previous cycles, particularly the 2022 edition, which produced a winning work that continues to resonate within contemporary Nigerian literature.
She reaffirmed NLNG’s commitment to sustaining a credible platform that promotes literary excellence and contributes to national development through the arts.
“At NLNG, we have consistently provided a platform that supports excellence and inspires a sustainable future. Beyond recognising talent, the Prize has contributed to the growth of reading culture, encouraged discipline in writing, and strengthened Nigeria’s literary landscape,” she added.
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Dr. Horsfall emphasised that the credibility of the Prize lies in the integrity of its adjudication process, which will involve months of detailed reading, evaluation, and deliberation, culminating in a longlist of eleven entries, a shortlist of three, and ultimately, the selection of a winner.
The entries were formally presented to the Advisory Board, chaired by Prof Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, who in turn handed them over to the panel of judges for evaluation in line with established standards.
Prof. Adimora-Ezeigbo commended NLNG for its continued dedication to the Prize, noting that each edition reflects the evolving depth and diversity of Nigerian writing across genres.
She also acknowledged the writers whose submissions continue to sustain the Prize’s relevance and impact and urged the panel of judges to demonstrate the highest level of professionalism and depth in selecting the winning entry.
The The Nigeria Prize for Literature, sponsored annually by NLNG, remains a flagship initiative in the company’s commitment to education, culture, and sustainable development, and continues to serve as a benchmark for literary excellence in Africa.
