By Prisca Sam-Duru

The 2026 edition of The Nigeria Prize for Literature officially entered into its adjudication phase on Monday, following the formal handover of 223 entries to the Advisory Board and panel of judges.

The submission volume represents a robust showing for the poetry category. While slightly below some peak years, the figure remains highly competitive, signalling sustained interest in the $100,000 prize—widely considered Africa’s most prestigious literary honour.

The entries were formally presented to the Advisory Board, chaired by Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, who, in turn handed them over to the panel of judges for evaluation in line with established standards.

Speaking at the handover ceremony in Lagos, NLNG’s General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development, Dr. Sophia Horsfall described the handover ceremony as the start of a “rigorous and defining process.” Represented by Abdul Umar, Manager of Government Relations, Horsfall noted that the adjudication will ultimately determine the winning work this year.

Her words: “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.”

Dr. Horsfall further 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.

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.

Speaking while receiving the entries, 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 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.