Manny Ita –
Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) has officially opened submissions for the 2026 edition of the Nigeria Prize for Literature, with this year’s competition dedicated to poetry. The company said Nigerian poets from across the world have until March 31, 2026, to submit their published collections for consideration.
NLNG noted that the annual prize, regarded as one of Africa’s most prestigious literary honours, carries a cash award of $100,000 for the winner. The competition rotates among four genres—poetry, prose fiction, drama, and children’s literature—with poetry returning as the focus for the 2026 cycle.
The Advisory Board for the prize stated that only works by Nigerian authors, whether resident in the country or in the diaspora, will be eligible, provided the entries meet stipulated publication and submission guidelines. Organisers emphasised that submissions must be full-length published collections rather than individual poems, in line with the prize’s established rules.
An NLNG spokesperson said the award aims to stimulate literary excellence and encourage writers to produce high-quality works that reflect the richness of Nigerian culture and experience. “The Nigeria Prize for Literature continues to celebrate creativity and promote reading culture by rewarding outstanding literary contributions,” the spokesperson said.
The company also encouraged publishers, literary organisations, and academic institutions to support eligible writers in submitting their works before the deadline, noting that late or incomplete entries would not be considered. According to the organisers, the judging process will involve multiple stages, culminating in the announcement of a longlist, shortlist, and eventual winner.
Since its inception, the prize has recognised several distinguished Nigerian writers and has played a significant role in elevating the country’s literary profile globally. Observers say the 2026 poetry edition is expected to attract strong competition from both established and emerging voices, reflecting the growing vitality of contemporary Nigerian poetry.
