The finalists have been recognised as the leading contenders for the prize, chosen from a pool of 163 books submitted for teh competition. The winner will be announced on October 11, 2024
THE wait is over for the final three. The Nigeria Prize for Literature has announced the shortlist for its prize worth USD$100,000 for children’s literature 2024. The prize is sponsored yearly by Nigeria LNG Limited, and it’s in its 20th year. The writers and their books are A Father’s Pride by Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmor, The Road Does Not End by Olubunmi Familoni and Wish Maker by Uchechukwu Umezurike.
In a statement announcing the shortlist on its verified Instagram handle, the Advisory Board for the prize said, “The finalists have been recognised as the leading contenders for the prize, chosen from a pool of 163 books submitted for teh competition. The winner will be announced on October 11, 2024.”
In July 2024, 11 selected works were released in a longlist and the shortlist of three was selected from this list by a panel of judges led by Professor Saleh Abdu of Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State. Other judges include Professor Vicky Sylvester and Dr. Osarobu Igudia.
Announcing the finalists, the Chairperson of the Advisory Board, Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, emphasised that the board and the panel of judges, in selecting the shortlisted books, prioritised excellence and recognised the significant impact the prize has on young Nigerians.
A statement from the board reads: “A Father’s Pride by Chiazor-Enenmor is a touching story that delves into the complex relationship between a father and his children, highlighting their struggles with love, forgiveness, and understanding. Written in clear and accessible language, it captures emotions that resonate deeply with readers.
“The Road Does Not End by Olubunmi addresses the critical issue of child labour in society. The book explores themes of resilience and human connection, emphasising the importance of relationships and the need for continuous self-improvement.
“Wish Maker by Umezurike is set in a riverine village and combines suspense, engagement, inspiration, and entertainment. It weaves moral lessons and elements of magic realism, captivating young readers. The board praises its language and meticulous editing.”
Professor Christopher Okemwa, a lecturer of poetry and drama at Kisii University, Kenya, serves as the International Consultant for the 2024 edition of the prize. He is an award-winning author in Children’s Literature. Professor Okemwa joins the panel of judges to determine the final verdict.
In the last edition of the competition that focussed on Children’s Literature genre in 2019, Mystery at Ebenezer Lodge by Dunni Olatunde, The Great Walls of Benin by O.T. Begho and Boom Boom by Jude Idada were announced in the shortlist of three. Idada edged the two authors out to win the prize. In 2015, six authors were longlisted. They included The Golden Gift by Thelma Nwokeji, Chijike by Chinyere Obi-Obasi, A Place for Every Girl by Jaqueline Agweh, A Miracle for Daddy by Sunny Jack Obande, The House in the Tree by Chidinma Eze, and Didi Kanu and the Singing Dwarfs of the North by Jude Idada. There was no shortlist of three and no winner emerged that year.
Other authors who have made it to the shortlist are Ayodele Olofintuade (Eno’s Story), Chinyere Obi-Obasi (The Great Fall) and Adeleke “Mai Nasara” Adeyemi (The Missing Clock which emerged winner) in 2011. Also, Mabel Segun (Reader’s Theatre: Twelve Plays for Young People, co-winner), Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo (My Cousin Sammy, co-winner) and Sam and the Wallet by Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike in 2007.
Other members of the Advisory Board include Professor Olu Obafemi and Professor Ahmed Yerima.
Chiazor-Enenmor, Umezurike, Familoni in race for USD$100,000 literary jackpot
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