The 2026 edition of The Nigeria Prize for Literature has entered its adjudication phase after 223 submissions were officially handed over in Lagos on Monday.

The entries, submitted under this year’s poetry category, reflect steady participation from writers across the country. While the number falls slightly below some peak years, it remains strong when compared with recent cycles, especially in prose. Overall, it points to sustained interest in the Prize and its continued relevance in Nigeria’s literary space.

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At a press briefing, Sophia Horsfall, General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development at Nigeria LNG Limited, described the handover as the start of a careful and demanding process.

She was represented by Abdul Umar, Manager of Government Relations.

According to her, the adjudication stage will require “attention, patience, and sound judgement” to determine the work that ultimately defines this year’s Prize.

The award, valued at $100,000 and widely regarded as one of Africa’s most prestigious literary honors, focuses on poetry in 2026. Horsfall noted that the genre demands precision and depth, with expectations shaped by strong past winners, particularly the 2022 edition, whose impact still resonates in contemporary Nigerian literature.

She also reaffirmed NLNG’s ongoing commitment to promoting literary excellence and supporting national development through the arts.

“Beyond recognizing talent, the Prize has helped grow reading culture, encouraged discipline in writing, and strengthened Nigeria’s literary landscape,” she said.

The adjudication process will span several months and involve detailed reading and evaluation. It will lead to a longlist of eleven works, a shortlist of three, and finally, the announcement of a winner.

The entries were first received by the Advisory Board, chaired by Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, who then passed them on to the panel of judges.

Speaking at the handover, Adimora-Ezeigbo commended NLNG’s continued support for the Prize, noting that each edition reflects the growing depth and diversity of Nigerian writing. She also acknowledged the writers whose submissions keep the Prize relevant and urged judges to uphold the highest standards in their evaluation.

Sponsored annually by NLNG, The Nigeria Prize for Literature remains a flagship initiative in the company’s investment in education, culture, and sustainable development, and continues to set a benchmark for literary excellence across Africa.