The Advisory Board for The Nigeria Prize for Literature has unveiled the longlist of 11 books contending for the prestigious 2024 prize, selected from a competitive pool of 163 entries. This year’s focus is on children’s literature, highlighting the importance of nurturing young minds with quality narratives.
Among the notable contenders is Henry Akubuiro with his book, Mighty Mite And Golden Jewel, marking his return to the esteemed list.
Only last year, Akubuiro made the shortlist of three with his play, Yamtarawala, the Warrior King.
The longlist, arranged alphabetically by title, includes:
– 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
– Wish Maker by Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike
Professor Saleh Abdu, chairman of the panel of judges, from the Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State, presented the list to the Advisory Board. The panel, which also includes Professor Vicky Sylvester and Dr. Osarobu Igudia, praised the profound narratives and creative prowess of the authors, emphasising the vividness of the characters and stories.
Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, chairman of the Advisory Board, commended the judges for their meticulous selection and stressed the importance of children’s literature in shaping young minds. She noted that the relevance and quality of literature for children are paramount.
Sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), the Nigeria Prize for Literature offers a substantial cash award of $100,000. The prize rotates yearly among four literary categories: prose fiction, poetry, drama and children’s literature.
The shortlist of three books will be announced in September, with the winner revealed in October.
This year’s longlist reflects the high standards and diversity in children’s literature, setting the stage for an exciting final selection.
