Entries are now open for the 2026 Nigeria Prize for Literature, an annual award sponsored by the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) to recognise outstanding literary achievement by Nigerian authors.
The prize rotates annually across four literary genres — Prose Fiction, Poetry, Drama, and Children’s Literature. The 2026 edition is dedicated to Poetry, awarding the author of the best published poetry collection by a Nigerian writer.
Widely regarded as one of Africa’s most prestigious literary awards, the prize honours excellence in literary production and celebrates contributions that advance Nigerian and African literature globally.
Eligibility
The competition is open exclusively to Nigerian writers, regardless of country of residence.
Applicants must:
Submit one published work only
Ensure the book was published no earlier than 2023
Provide proof of Nigerian citizenship (passport or National Identity Card)
Be available to participate in prize-related public engagements, including readings, interviews, and media activities.
Unpublished manuscripts, previously submitted works, or revised editions of earlier submissions will not be considered.
Submission requirements
Applicants are required to submit:
Twelve (12) hard copies of the published book
One electronic copy of the entry
A completed application form obtained from the official Nigeria Prizes website
Entries may be submitted by either the author or publisher to NLNG’s External Relations Division.
Failure to meet submission conditions will result in disqualification.
Funding amount
The winning author will receive a cash prize of USD 100,000.
Application information
Submission deadline: 31 March 2026 at 23:59 WAT
Application forms and detailed submission guidelines are available via the official Nigeria Prizes website.
Your funding experts
InterArts Funding offers its expertise to assist you in applying for grant opportunities (including this one), leveraging our extensive experience to enhance your chances of securing the grant. It is important to clarify that InterArts Funding is an independent entity and is not affiliated with any specific funding organisation. While we have a commendable track record of success, we cannot guarantee the approval of your application. Grant outcomes depend on various factors beyond our control.