Olubunmi Familoni Wins $100,000 Nigeria Prize for Literature for Children’s Book
The Nigeria Prize for Literature, Africa’s most prestigious literary award sponsored by Nigeria LNG (NLNG), has named The Road Does Not End by Olubunmi Familoni as the 2024 winner, focusing on children’s literature. Familoni was awarded the $100,000 prize during the 2024 Grand Award Night held in Lagos, following an announcement by the Advisory Board.
Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Chairman of the Advisory Board, revealed that The Road Does Not End was chosen after a rigorous evaluation process among three exceptional finalists. She praised the work for its compelling narrative and cultural significance, which distinguished it from the other contenders.
Professor Adimora-Ezeigbo commended NLNG for its continued support of Nigerian literature, saying, “NLNG has not only maintained The Nigeria Prize for Literature but has also consistently promoted literary writing, criticism, and reading across the nation. Their sponsorship is instrumental in providing Nigerian writers with platforms to showcase their talents.”
She explained that the judging panel reviewed all entries based on set criteria, narrowing down an initial longlist of 11 entries to three finalists: A Father’s Pride by Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmor, The Road Does Not End by Olubunmi Familoni, and Wish Maker by Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike.
Adimora-Ezeigbo highlighted the winning novel’s portrayal of the struggles and resilience of vulnerable youths in Nigeria, particularly those living on the streets of Lagos. Familoni’s narrative shines a light on their daily challenges, perseverance, and hope, providing a window into the lives of many young people facing difficult circumstances. The judges ultimately selected The Road Does Not End for its thematic depth, lyrical style, and social relevance, making it a story that resonates with both children and adults.
Additionally, the Advisory Board announced that there was no winner for The Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism this year.
At the same event, the 2024 Nigeria Prize for Science was presented to Eni Oko, Olajide Otitoju, and Meihong Wang for their innovative research on “Process Intensification Technology for Greenhouse Emission Control in Power Generation and Industry for Sustainable Fuel Production (PIC-FUEL).”
Dr. Philip Mshelbila, NLNG’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the significance of this year’s Grand Award Night, celebrating 20 years of The NLNG Prizes, 35 years since the company’s incorporation, and 25 years of successful operations. He lauded the shortlisted authors for their contributions, stating, “The authors have written stories that symbolize children as the future, while stirring our thoughts on the rights and well-being of children.”
The Nigeria Prizes honor individuals who challenge conventional thinking, inspire new ideas, and address critical societal issues, ensuring that their work has a lasting impact in Nigeria and beyond
