The longlist for the 2025 edition of The Nigeria Prize for Literature has been announced, featuring 11 works of prose fiction from Nigerian writers across the globe.

The announcement was made on Wednesday, July 23, via the Prize’s official Facebook page. This year’s edition is dedicated to prose fiction, and the organisers described the longlist as a celebration of “powerful stories, unforgettable characters, and the literary brilliance that defines our heritage”.

The longlisted titles include:

1. An Unusual Grief – Yewande Omotoso
2. Fine Dreams – Linda N. Masi
3. My Bones in SakasToon – Michael Afenfia
4. New York, My Village – Uwem Akpan
5. Petricheor: The Scent of a New Beginning – Ayo Oyeku
6. Sanya – Oyin Olugbile
7. The Middle Daughter – Chika Unigwe
8. The Road to the Country – Chigozie Obioma
9. The Motherless Land – Nikki May
10. Water Baby – Chioma Okereke
11. When We Were Fireflies – Abubakar Adam Ibrahim

In a previous post teasing this year’s selection, the organisers wrote: “This year’s entries captured hearts, challenged minds, and showcased the depth of Nigerian storytelling.”

Sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited, the Nigeria Prize for Literature is widely regarded as Africa’s most prestigious literary award, with a $100,000 cash prize for the eventual winner.