By Damiete Braide
In a vibrant display of literary talent, the Advisory Board for The Nigeria Prize for Literature has unveiled the longlist for the 2024 prize, which focuses on Children’s Literature this year.
The selection, drawn from an impressive pool of 163 entries, highlights 11 exceptional books that will compete for the prestigious award, sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG).
With a substantial cash prize of $100,000 at stake, the announcement marks a significant moment in the Nigerian literary calendar.
The longlisted books, presented alphabetically by title, include: A Father’s Pride by Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmo, Bode’s Birthday Party by Akanni Festus Olaniyi, Grandma And The Moon’s Hidden Secret by Jumoke Verissimo, Mighty Mite And Golden Jewel by Henry Akubuiro, Risi Recycle – The Dustbin Girl by Temiloluwa Adeshina, The Children At The IDP Camp by Olatunbosun Taofeek, The Magic Jalabiya by Ayo Adeliyi Oyeku, The Road Does Not End by Familoni Oluranti Olubunmi, The Third Side of A Coin by Hyginus Ekwuazi, Village Boy by Anietie Usen, and Wish Maker by Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike.
The unveiling of the longlist was a moment of pride and celebration for the literary community. Professor Saleh Abdu, the Chairman of the Panel of Judges and a respected academic from the Federal University of Kashere in Gombe State, presented the longlist to the Advisory Board. The judging panel also included esteemed scholars, Professor Vicky Sylvester and Dr. Osarobu Igudia. In their report, the judges praised the longlisted entries for their profound narratives, creative prowess, and the vividness of their characters and stories. They noted that each book stood out for its ability to engage young readers and convey meaningful messages through imaginative storytelling.
Receiving the longlist, Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Chairman of the Advisory Board, expressed her gratitude to the judges for their diligent and meticulous selection process. She emphasized the crucial role of Children’s Literature in shaping the minds and futures of young readers. Professor Adimora-Ezeigbo highlighted the importance of quality and relevance in the literature that children are exposed to, stressing that the stories they read should resonate with their experiences and aspirations.
The Nigeria Prize for Literature, established to promote literary excellence and encourage a vibrant reading culture in Nigeria, rotates yearly among four literary categories: prose fiction, poetry, drama, and children’s literature. The focus on Children’s Literature this year underscores the significance of nurturing young minds with enriching and inspiring stories. The prize aims to recognize and reward authors who contribute to this essential literary genre.
The announcement of the longlist is just the beginning of the journey towards the final selection. A shortlist of three books is expected to be announced in September, narrowing the competition and heightening the anticipation for the final decision. The winner will be announced by the Advisory Board in October. The prestigious award not only offers a substantial monetary prize but also brings significant recognition to the winning author, boosting their career and contributing to the promotion of Nigerian literature on a global stage.
Andy Odeh, General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, reiterated the company’s commitment to supporting the arts and literature in Nigeria. He praised the authors for their creativity and dedication, recognizing the vital role that literature plays in cultural preservation and the development of society.
The 2024 longlist for The Nigeria Prize for Literature shines a spotlight on the richness of Children’s Literature in Nigeria. Each book on the list reflects the diverse voices and stories that make up the nation’s literary landscape. As the journey to the final selection continues, the literary community and readers alike eagerly await the announcement of the shortlist and, ultimately, the winner, who will join the ranks of esteemed authors celebrated for their contribution to Nigerian literature.
