NLNG Nigeria Prize for Literature 2026 judging begins as 223 poetry entries are submitted for evaluation in Lagos
Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), through its Nigeria Prize for Literature Advisory Board and panel of judges, on Monday formally commenced the adjudication process for the 2026 edition of its flagship literary award after receiving 223 entries from writers across the country.
2026 NLNG Prize for Literature in Nigeria adjudication began during a handover ceremony held in Lagos, where submissions in this year’s poetry category were officially transferred to the judging panel for detailed evaluation.
NLNG confirmed that while the number of entries is slightly lower than some previous peak editions, participation remains strong, reflecting sustained engagement and growing interest in the prize among Nigerian writers.
Speaking at the event, the General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, Dr Sophia Horsfall, represented by Manager of Government Relations Abdul Umar, described the development as the start of a rigorous and meticulous evaluation exercise.
“This marks the start of a process that demands attention, patience, and sound judgement, and will ultimately determine the work that defines this year’s Prize,” she said.
Dr Horsfall described the $100,000 award as one of the most prestigious literary honours on the African continent, noting that the poetry category requires exceptional depth, clarity, and creative precision.
She added that expectations for the current cycle are informed by previous winning works.
She also reaffirmed NLNG’s commitment to promoting literary excellence and strengthening Nigeria’s cultural and intellectual landscape, stating that the initiative has continued to encourage discipline in writing and improve reading culture nationwide.
“At NLNG, we have consistently provided a platform that supports excellence and inspires a sustainable future,” she added.
Chairperson of the Advisory Board, Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, formally received the entries before handing them over to the judges.
She commended NLNG for sustaining the prize and said each edition continues to reflect the evolution of Nigerian literature across genres.
She urged the panel to approach the process with diligence and professionalism, as they begin months of reading and assessment that will produce a longlist of eleven entries, a shortlist of three, and ultimately a final winner.
The Nigeria Prize for Literature remains one of NLNG’s most respected awards, alongside the Nigeria Prize for Science and other thematic categories aimed at promoting excellence across key sectors.
In the 2025 edition, the prose category was awarded to Oyin Olugbile for her novel Sanya.
Culture4 years ago
