Nigerian writer Oyin Olugbile has been announced as the winner of the 2025 Nigeria Prize for Literature, one of Africa’s most prestigious and richest literary honours, with a cash prize of $100,000.
Olugbile clinched the award for her novel, “Sanya,” emerging victorious over two other acclaimed finalists — Chigozie Obioma, author of The Road to the Country, and Nikki May, author of This Motherless Land.
The announcement was made by the Advisory Board of the Prize, led by Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, during a Grand Award Ceremony held on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.
The Nigeria Prize for Literature, sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), rotates annually among four genres — prose fiction, poetry, drama, and children’s literature. The 2025 cycle, themed “Inspire,” focused on prose fiction.
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In her remarks, Prof. Adimora-Ezeigbo lauded the exceptional quality of this year’s entries, describing the shortlisted works as “masterfully plotted, beautifully written, and emotionally stirring.”
“Each work distinguishes itself through compelling storytelling and deep engagement with societal issues. These are not merely stories — they are woven realities that reflect both the struggles and triumphs of our shared humanity.”
She acknowledged the outstanding effort of all participants and extended appreciation to her fellow board members — Emeritus Prof. Olu Obafemi and Prof. Ahmed Yerima — as well as the panel of judges for maintaining the highest standards of literary evaluation.
The 2025 judging panel was chaired by Associate Professor Saeedat Bolajoko Aliyu of Kwara State University, alongside Professor Stephen Mbanefo Ogene of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, and Mr. Olakunle Kasumu, writer, filmmaker, and host of Channels Television’s Book Club.
According to the judges, this year’s shortlist “represents the very best of Nigerian prose writing — stories that are culturally relevant, deeply human, and artistically accomplished.”
They described Sanya as “a fascinating novel, from its captivating cover to its fast-paced and thought-provoking narrative.”
Since its inception, the Nigeria Prize for Literature has been instrumental in spotlighting Nigerian literary talent and sustaining the country’s reputation as a powerhouse in global storytelling.
This year’s award continues that legacy, celebrating voices that challenge convention, evoke empathy, and inspire the next generation of African writers.
