Nigeria’s literary community was abuzz with excitement this weekend as the Committee for Relevant Art (CORA), in collaboration with The Nigeria Prize for Literature, hosted a memorable book party in Lagos to honour the 11 authors longlisted for the prestigious 2025 edition of the literature prize.
The event, which marked the first public appearance of the longlisted writers, was a celebration of Nigerian storytelling. It featured engaging book readings, with authors participating both in person and virtually.
A panel discussion also provided an insightful exchange of ideas, drawing together writers, readers, literary enthusiasts, and media personnel in a vibrant atmosphere of creativity and intellectual discourse.
The longlist was selected from an impressive pool of 252 entries, with the judging panel chaired by Professor Saeedat Bolajoko Aliyu of Kwara State University.
READ ALSO: 2027: Atiku-Obi Alliance Won’t Work Under ADC – Keyamo
Other panel members included Professor Stephen Mbanefo Ogene from Nnamdi Azikiwe University and Mr Olakunle Kasumu, host of Channels Book Club.
Sophia Horsfall, NLNG’s General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development, praised the NLNG/CORA Book Party as a standout event in the lead-up to the final announcement of the winner in October.
In her remarks, she emphasised the importance of the event in drawing attention to Nigerian literature and giving authors the recognition they deserve.
READ ALSO: SDP Sues INEC over Rejection of Candidates in 12 States
“The NLNG/CORA Book Party is a unique celebration, one that brings together authors, journalists, and literature lovers in a way that adds excitement and visibility to Nigerian writing,” Horsfall said. “This event is a testament to NLNG’s unwavering belief in Nigeria’s creative future. While we power homes with energy, we also believe that stories power hope. Over the past 20 years, The Nigeria Prize for Literature has sparked dreams, inspired critical thinking, and motivated a new generation of Nigerian writers who are now making their mark on the global stage.”
She also acknowledged the prize’s significant role in elevating the standards of editing, publishing, and the broader literary ecosystem in Nigeria.
Horsfall lauded the longlisted authors, expressing pride in their achievements and how their stories are contributing to the nation’s literary reputation.
CORA’s Secretary-General, Toyin Akinosho, also spoke at the event, emphasising the importance of public literary platforms in facilitating deeper engagement between writers and their audiences.
He noted that such spaces allow for meaningful dialogue, where writers and readers can exchange ideas and explore the inspirations behind the works, thereby enriching Nigeria’s dynamic literary culture.
The Nigeria Prize for Literature, now in its 21st year, continues to rotate annually among four literary genres: prose fiction, poetry, drama, and children’s literature.
As the countdown to the announcement of the winner continues, anticipation builds within Nigeria’s literary community, reflecting the prize’s crucial role in supporting excellence and promoting a sustainable future for Nigerian writers.
The 2025 edition of The Nigeria Prize for Literature is set to be another milestone in the nation’s ongoing celebration of literary talent and creativity.
Sunday Michael Ogwu is a Nigerian journalist and editor of Pinnacle Daily. He is known for his work in business and economic reporting. He has held editorial roles in prominent Nigerian media outlets, where he has focused on economic policy, financial markets, and developmental issues affecting Nigeria and Africa more broadly.
