Sopuruchi Onwuka

One of the three writers who have emerged finalists in the keen contest for the Nigeria Prize for Literature will soon be announced as the winner of the trophy which comes with princely $100,000 or N155 million in cash reward.

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Advisory Board of the Nigerian Prize for Literature, the annual contest sponsored by the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited on Thursday listed three outstanding literary works as top contenders for the prize.

The shortlisted novels are Sanya by Oyin Olugbile; The Road to the Country by Chigozie Obioma; and This Motherless Land by Nikki May.

The winner of the most prestigious prize in Africa in 2025 is set to be announced at scheduled grand award ceremony in October.

Chairman of the Advisory Board for The Nigeria Prize for Literature, Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, described the selection process as intense, rigorous and meticulous; saying the judges faced daunting and unprecedented selection process due to the quality of entries.

Professor Adimora-Ezeigbo said 11 works earlier pruned from the basket of entries remain excellent.

“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.

“We commend all the authors who submitted their works this year. It has been inspiring to witness such creativity and passion. I can say it is a privilege to be part of something so meaningful and honourable,” she stated.

Professor Adimora-Ezeigbo also commended the judging panel for their uncompromising evaluation, ensuring that only the most outstanding works earned a place in the shortlist of three.

This year’s panel of judges is chaired by Associate Professor Saeedat Bolajoko Aliyu of the Department of English, Kwara State University. Other members of the panel include Professor Stephen Mbanefo Ogene, Professor of Comparative Literature, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; and Mr Olakunle Kasumu, writer, filmmaker, producer, and host of Channels Television’s Book Club.

According to the judges, the shortlist represents the best of Nigerian prose writing, exploring culturally-relevant themes and telling stories that are exciting, entertaining and instructive.

“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,” the judges stated.

The Nigeria Prize for Literature rotates among four genres of literature: prose fiction, poetry, drama, and children’s literature.