Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature: ANA Unveils Past Winners, Calls for 2026 Entries

CHINUA ACHEBE PRIZE FOR LITERATURE: ANA UNVEILS PAST WINNERS, CALLS FOR 2026 ENTRIES

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has unveiled the past winners of the Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature and called for entries for the 2026 edition of the prestigious annual literary prize. 

The announcement follows the dissolution of the committee previously responsible for the administration of the prize and reflects ANA's renewed commitment to strengthening the transparency, continuity and integrity of the award.

In a joint statement issued by the ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the Acting General Secretary, Wole Adedoyin, the Association invited eligible Nigerian writers at home and abroad to participate in the 2026 competition. Established in 2021, the Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature recognises excellence and outstanding achievement in Nigerian fiction and celebrates works that make significant contributions to the country's literary heritage.

ANA has confirmed the following as past winners of the prize: 2021 – Obinna Ndenwe, Colours of Hatred; 2022 – Sylva Nze Ifedigbo, Believers and Hustlers; 2023 – Nikę Campbell, Saro; 2024 – Ifeoma Chinwuba, Sons of the East; and 2025 – Ndidi Chiazor Enenmor, See Morocco, See Spain. The Association expressed its appreciation to United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) for its sponsorship commitment of ₦20 million towards prize money and administrative costs for the 2026–2036 period.

The 2026 competition is open to published novels written by Nigerian authors and published in 2025 or 2026. Manuscripts are not eligible, there is no entry fee, and each author may submit only one title. Works previously entered for the Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature are also ineligible. Authors or publishers are required to submit 10 copies of the published novel, accompanied by proof of Nigerian citizenship, a covering letter stating the prize being entered for, the author's contact details, and the publisher's details, publication year and ISBN.

According to ANA, the Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature remains an important platform for recognising literary excellence and encouraging Nigerian writers to contribute meaningfully to the nation's literary development. “The Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature remains an important platform for recognising excellence in Nigerian fiction and encouraging writers to contribute meaningfully to the nation's literary heritage,” the Association stated.

Entries will be judged on literary quality, originality, creativity, language, narrative craft, characterisation and thematic depth. All submissions must be original and comply with Nigerian copyright laws, with authors and publishers responsible for any copyright infringement arising from their entries. The prize is not open to members of ANA's Board of Trustees (BOT), National Executive Council (NEC), judging panel, United Nigeria Airlines staff, or their immediate family members.

Members of the judging panel are required to disclose and recuse themselves from entries involving a conflict of interest, including works they have edited, published or for which they have provided supporting material. ANA also reserves the right to verify information supplied by entrants and to disqualify any entry that fails to meet the stated requirements. Submitted copies of books will not be returned.

The winner of the 2026 Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature will receive ₦1,000,000 (One Million Naira) and a plaque/certificate. 

The prize may be deferred where the judges determine that there is no sufficiently deserving entry or where no entry is received. Where only one eligible entry is submitted, the prize may nevertheless be awarded if the judges consider the work deserving, while the decision of the judges remains final.

The deadline for submission of entries is 15 September 2026, with the shortlist scheduled for 15 October 2026. 

The winner will be announced at the Awards Dinner during the ANA International Annual Convention, scheduled to take place from 29 October to 1 November 2026. Entries should be addressed to The General Secretary, Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), KM 2, Mamman Vatsa Writers' Village, Mpape, Abuja, Nigeria. ANA will not be responsible for delays, loss or charges arising from postal or courier services.

The Association of Nigerian Authors therefore calls on eligible Nigerian authors and publishers at home and abroad to submit outstanding works of fiction for consideration for the 2026 Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature. 

ANA said the continued success of the prize would contribute to the recognition of Nigerian literary excellence nationally and internationally while sustaining the legacy of one of Africa's most influential writers, Chinua Achebe.

ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, Releases New Book, Heritage of Loss

 ANA PRESIDENT, DR. USMAN OLADIPO AKANBI, RELEASES NEW BOOK, HERITAGE OF LOSS

By ANA Media Team 

The President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, has announced the release of his latest literary work, Heritage of Loss, a gripping drama that explores family, inheritance, greed, betrayal, resilience, faith and the enduring power of character. 

The new book adds to the growing body of creative works by the agricultural economist, poet, prose writer and playwright, whose leadership of Nigeria's foremost professional association for writers continues alongside his active engagement with literary creativity.

Heritage of Loss confronts a timeless and deeply human question: What happens when the inheritance worth fighting for is not a house, a business or a piece of land, but a name? At the centre of the drama is Layiwola, who, following the death of his father, inherits not only a family business but also a solemn responsibility to preserve the values, dignity and good name that his father spent a lifetime building.

However, grief gives Layiwola little time to come to terms with his loss before conflict begins to engulf the family. Caught between blood and betrayal, tradition and survival, and loyalty and personal interest, he is compelled to make difficult choices. As family members and other interested parties seek to influence the future of his father's estate, Layiwola must determine how much he is willing to lose in order to remain faithful to the principles upon which he was raised.

The drama raises profound questions about the nature of inheritance and legacy. Buildings may disappear, land may be lost and money may change hands, but Akanbi's work asks whether a good name and the values that produced it can ever truly be taken away. Through this compelling conflict, Heritage of Loss examines the enduring struggle between material possessions and moral character, offering readers an engaging reflection on what ultimately survives loss.

A review of the book by award-winning writer Sima Essien, titled What Cannot Be Stolen: A Review of Heritage of Loss, describes the work as a powerful examination of family conflict, legacy and the moral consequences of greed. Essien observes that Akanbi stages the turmoil of inheritance across nine tense dramatic parts, framed by a prologue and epilogue, while inviting readers to consider the difference between what is genuinely inherited and what is merely owned.

According to Essien, the central character, Layiwola, comes under intense pressure to abandon his late father's wishes regarding the family business. The conflict, she notes, presents a clash between the desire to preserve the legacy and principles of the past and the pressure to liquidate, modernise and monetise inherited assets in pursuit of personal enrichment. The reviewer further identifies this tension as one that reflects broader social realities, particularly within a society where material advancement can sometimes threaten the values of integrity, loyalty and honour.

Essien also commends Akanbi's use of language, characterisation and Yoruba proverbs, noting that these elements give the drama cultural depth and moral weight. She describes Heritage of Loss as a work that blends social critique, moral reflection and literary appeal, while making a strong case for the continued relevance of ethically grounded literature. In her assessment, the book remains a significant work for students of literature and lovers of drama, particularly because of its insistence that some inheritances cannot be sold, transferred or signed away.

Dr. Akanbi's latest publication is also significant within the history of the Association of Nigerian Authors. As the 13th President of ANA, he follows in the tradition of the association's 8th President, Dr. Wale Okediran, a practising medical doctor and renowned author who has successfully combined a distinguished professional career with sustained literary accomplishment. Dr. Okediran is also the founder of the Ebedi International Writers Residency, one of Nigeria's notable platforms for the nurturing and development of writers.

In a similar demonstration of the productive relationship between professional achievement and literary commitment, Dr. Akanbi, an agricultural economist, continues to contribute actively to Nigerian literature while providing leadership to ANA. Beyond his role as National President of the association, he is the founder of the Imodoye Writers Enclave, a literary initiative committed to providing opportunities for writers and strengthening the culture of creativity and intellectual engagement. His publication of Heritage of Loss further reinforces the example of a literary leader who remains actively committed to the creative practice he represents.

Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi is the author of several works across different literary genres, including Verdant Verses, which emerged First Runner-Up for the ANA Poetry Prize in 2009, Weevils on Grains, Tales Across the Plains, Connecting With My Past: A Midlife Memoir, Labake I Sale Eko and Other Plays, and Surpletness in Tightangles. 

With Heritage of Loss, the ANA President once again brings his sustained engagement with the human condition, society, culture and contemporary life to bear on a story that reminds readers of a fundamental truth: when everything material can be lost, character and a good name may remain the inheritance that no one can steal.

ANA Celebrates Dr. Awele Ilusanmi at 50, Commends Her Support for Nigerian Authors

 ANA CELEBRATES DR. AWELE ILUSANMI AT 50, COMMENDS HER SUPPORT FOR NIGERIAN AUTHORS

By ANA Media Team

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated its distinguished Fellow, Dr. Awele Ilusanmi, on the occasion of her 50th birthday anniversary, commending her contributions to the development of literature, author empowerment and the promotion of Nigerian books.

The congratulatory message was contained in a press statement jointly issued by the ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo-Akanbi, and the Acting General Secretary, Wole Adedoyin, who described Dr. Ilusanmi as a committed supporter of writers and literary development whose contributions have continued to add value to the Nigerian literary ecosystem.

The Association particularly acknowledged Dr. Ilusanmi’s support for ANA’s literary programmes, including her contribution to the ANA/Awele Ilusanmi Book Promotion Award, through which the Awele Ilusanmi Foundation provides ₦100,000 each to the winners of the three major ANA Award categories—Fiction, Drama and Poetry, amounting to ₦300,000 for the 2026 edition.

According to ANA, the support goes beyond prize money, as the initiative is intended to strengthen the visibility, marketing and distribution of winning books and help address some of the challenges Nigerian authors face in reaching readers and accessing sustainable markets for their works.

“Dr. Awele Ilusanmi has consistently demonstrated that true support for literature must extend beyond words to practical interventions that empower writers and give their works greater visibility. Her generosity, commitment and belief in Nigerian authors deserve our sincere appreciation as she marks this important milestone,” ANA stated.

The Association also noted another recent demonstration of her support for literary excellence, as Dr. Ilusanmi provided ₦150,000 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) in additional financial support to the 2025 winner of the Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature, supplementing the official prize attached to the prestigious award.

In a letter of appreciation jointly signed by the ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo-Akanbi, and Acting General Secretary, Wole Adedoyin, the Association expressed profound gratitude to Dr. Ilusanmi and commended her for consistently using her resources and professional experience to support writers, literary organisations, book-related initiatives and reading communities.

Dr. Ilusanmi is a Nigerian author, literary strategist, book marketing expert, publisher, publishing educator and literary advocate, widely celebrated as the “Queen of Books.” She is the President and Co-founder of the Literary Authors Cooperative Multipurpose Society of Nigeria (LITACO) and the Founder of Book Marketing Class Africa (BMACA). She has supported over 100 authors in getting published and mentored more than 500 writers globally, with her work covering publishing, book marketing, author branding, readership development and the business dimensions of literature.

She has served as a Literary Agent with Publishizer, New York, and as Assistant Editor of the Journal of Human Services at Stephen F. Austin State University, USA. She has also shared her expertise at major literary platforms, including the 2019 Connect Nigeria Writers’ Conference, where she spoke on “Successful Book Marketing,” and the Lagos Books and Art Festival 2023, where she participated as a panelist on “Winning with Book Publishing and Marketing.” Her literary interventions include support for book launches, literary festivals, writers’ workshops, book readings and reading communities across Nigeria.

An accomplished author, Dr. Ilusanmi has written Book Marketing Strategies That Work, Profitable Pages: How to Sell Your Books Directly to Readers and Maximize Profits, Launch Money, and Comforting Arms. Her recognitions include the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Fellowship, the Connect Nigeria Award, an Award of Excellence for Outstanding Contributions to Educational Development from CWAN, and, in 2026, recognition among the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent for her contributions to literature and publishing.

As she marks her 50th birthday, ANA celebrates her contribution to Nigerian literature and expresses confidence that her continued commitment to writers will inspire further support for literary excellence and reading culture.

ANA Congratulates Prof. Udenta Udenta at 63

ANA CONGRATULATES PROF. UDENTA UDENTA AT 63

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated Professor Udenta Onwuamaeze Udenta, distinguished scholar, writer, cultural theorist, public intellectual and pro-democracy activist, on the occasion of his 63rd birthday. The Association described the renowned intellectual as an exceptional voice whose contributions to literature, scholarship, democratic thought and national discourse have continued to enrich Nigeria’s intellectual landscape.

In a congratulatory message contained in a press release jointly issued by the ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the Acting General Secretary, Wole Adedoyin, the Association celebrated Professor Udenta for his remarkable intellectual journey and his enduring commitment to the development of literature, culture and democratic values. ANA noted that his career represents a rare blend of scholarship, creative writing, cultural criticism, political thought and active engagement with the affairs of society.

The Association particularly acknowledged Professor Udenta’s enormous contribution to the ANA Mbari Series, the Association’s quarterly intellectual discourse programme which provides a platform for writers, scholars, artists, thinkers and other members of the intellectual community to engage critically with important issues affecting literature, culture, society and the Nigerian condition. The series has over time become an important meeting point for ideas, conversations and critical reflections, reinforcing ANA’s historic role as a leading platform for literary and intellectual engagement in Nigeria.

According to ANA, Professor Udenta has been one of the faces and major pillars of support behind the continued sustenance of the Mbari Series. His intellectual presence, encouragement, commitment and willingness to contribute to meaningful conversations have helped give the programme the vitality and consistency it enjoys. The Association expressed appreciation for his continued partnership with the series, noting that his involvement has helped ensure that the Mbari platform remains a living space for robust intellectual exchange rather than merely another event on the literary calendar.

ANA further noted that the significance of the Mbari Series lies in its ability to bring literature into conversation with politics, culture, history, governance, philosophy and the everyday realities of Nigerians. Through its quarterly engagements, the series encourages writers and intellectuals to interrogate prevailing realities, challenge established assumptions and propose alternative ways of understanding society. Professor Udenta’s participation and support, the Association said, have  strengthened this tradition of fearless and thoughtful intellectual engagement.

Born in 1963 in Mgbowo, Enugu State, Professor Udenta has over several decades distinguished himself as a Professor of Cultural Studies and Creative Writing, prolific author, editor, cultural theorist and public intellectual. He has written and edited more than 21 books, alongside numerous scholarly papers, lectures and presentations delivered at national and international forums. His intellectual interests encompass culture, knowledge production, political economy, post-colonial realities, African intellectual traditions and the social responsibilities of writers and scholars.

Beyond the university and literary community, ANA commended Professor Udenta for his historic role in Nigeria’s struggle for democratic governance. During the military era, he participated actively in the pro-democracy movement and paid a personal price for his commitment to democratic ideals. His subsequent involvement in the formation of the Alliance for Democracy, where he served as founding National Secretary, further demonstrated his belief that intellectual engagement must be connected to the struggle for a just, accountable and democratic society.

The Association also described Professor Udenta as a persistent promoter of democracy, good governance and social justice in Nigeria. It said this commitment remains evident in his numerous social and political commentaries, public lectures and interviews across newspapers, radio and television stations. Through these platforms, he has consistently interrogated questions of leadership, electoral politics, corruption, institutional accountability, political participation and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, bringing to public discourse the perspective of a scholar who is deeply engaged with the realities of his society.

ANA observed that Professor Udenta’s intellectual interventions are often distinguished by candour, historical depth and a willingness to question prevailing narratives. As a Marxist scholar and cultural theorist, he has remained an independent and critical voice in the national conversation, insisting that intellectuals, writers and scholars cannot afford to remain indifferent to the political and social conditions surrounding them. His continuing service as Director-General of the African Writers Institute further reflects his commitment to African literature, intellectual production and the development of emerging writers and thinkers.

The Association of Nigerian Authors, therefore, joins his family, friends, colleagues, students, admirers and the wider literary and intellectual community in celebrating Professor Udenta Okwuchukwu Udenta at 63. 

ANA expressed gratitude for his immense contributions to Nigerian letters, the Mbari Series and the broader struggle for democratic values and good governance, while wishing him many more years of good health, intellectual productivity and fruitful service to Nigeria and Africa. 

The Association prayed that the years ahead would bring him greater opportunities to continue inspiring writers, scholars, activists and citizens through his words, ideas and example.

Prof. Femi Osofisan Expresses Deep Gratitude for Outpouring of Love on 80th Birthday Celebration

 EMERITUS PROFESSOR FEMI OSOFISAN EXPRESSES DEEP GRATITUDE FOR OUTPOURING OF LOVE ON 80TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

By ANA Media Team

Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) and the third President of the Association, has expressed profound appreciation to friends, colleagues, family members, students, admirers, and well-wishers across the world for the overwhelming goodwill and support he received during the celebration of his 80th birthday.

In a heartfelt letter of gratitude released several weeks after the milestone event, the renowned playwright, scholar, and literary icon apologized for the delay in acknowledging the countless gestures of love, explaining that he had been overwhelmed by the extraordinary scale of the celebration.

Reflecting on the event, Professor Osofisan described the celebration as far beyond anything he had imagined. While he had anticipated spending quality time with loved ones, he said nothing had prepared him for the immense outpouring of affection that came from different parts of the world. According to him, the overwhelming response left him momentarily speechless as he tried to come to terms with the magnitude of the occasion and its lasting impact.

The celebrated dramatist acknowledged the support and goodwill he received from people across continents, including friends and admirers in Lagos, London, Bayreuth, Beijing, New York, Nairobi, Berlin, Accra, Ibadan, and many other cities. He expressed gratitude to family members, students, colleagues, mentors, media professionals, aides, and acquaintances who honoured him through prayers, goodwill messages, telephone calls, WhatsApp messages, personal visits, and generous gifts. He noted that every gesture contributed to making the celebration a truly unforgettable experience.

Professor Osofisan also recalled a memorable remark from one of his closest friends during the festivities, who described the occasion as more than a birthday celebration. According to the note, the event was "not a birthday party" but "a fiesta" and "a carnival"—a description the literary icon said perfectly captured the joyous atmosphere and the remarkable display of love and solidarity that surrounded the celebration.

Among the many expressions of goodwill that touched him deeply, Professor Osofisan highlighted the spontaneous demonstrations of affection, the widespread appreciation for his life's work, and the congratulatory letter he received from the President. He reflected that such recognition was especially meaningful for someone who does not belong to any political party, royal institution, religious establishment, or exclusive association, but has chosen to live by the values of intellect, integrity, and compassion throughout his life.

While promising to personally acknowledge as many individuals as possible, Professor Osofisan admitted that the sheer number of well-wishers might make it impossible to reach everyone individually. He therefore issued the collective message as a sincere expression of gratitude, thanking all who celebrated him in one way or another. He concluded by extending his heartfelt appreciation to everyone whose prayers, presence, messages, and acts of kindness made his 80th birthday an unforgettable milestone.

Imodoye Writers Residency Opens Submissions for Inaugural Imodoye Review 2026

IMODOYE WRITERS RESIDENCY OPENS SUBMISSIONS FOR INAUGURAL IMODOYE REVIEW 2026

The Board and Administration of the Imodoye Writers Residency have officially announced a call for submissions for the inaugural edition of the Imodoye Review 2026, inviting writers and visual artists from Nigeria and across the world to contribute original, unpublished, and thought-provoking works. 

The maiden edition is themed "Words that Mend the World," reflecting the publication's commitment to promoting literature and art that interrogate, renew, restore, and reimagine the rich tapestry of African narratives across borders, genres, and generations.

According to the management, the inaugural edition is dedicated to the exceptional fellows of the Imodoye Residency and seeks to provide a platform for diverse creative voices whose works inspire dialogue, healing, and transformation. Submissions are invited in the categories of Poetry (maximum of two poems per poet), Fiction, Articles, Reviews, and Critical Essays (maximum of 700 words). Visual artists are also encouraged to submit high-resolution JPEG images of their original works for consideration.

To ensure the highest editorial standards, all submissions must be original, unpublished, and must not be under consideration elsewhere. Contributors are required to send their entries to imodoyewritersenclave1@gmail.com with the subject line "IR001 SUBMISSIONS." Each submission should include a brief contributor's biography of not more than 50 words. The Imodoye Writers Residency emphasizes that it does not discriminate on the basis of location, race, age, sex, or religion, affirming that every authentic voice deserves to be heard.

Although the Imodoye Review is presently a non-paying publication, every successful contributor will receive a complimentary electronic copy of the journal, with plans for a print edition in the future. This initiative underscores the Residency's commitment to fostering literary excellence and creating meaningful opportunities for emerging and established writers and artists alike.

The deadline for submissions is Friday, 22 October 2026. The Board and Administration of the Imodoye Writers Residency encourage all eligible writers and visual artists to seize this opportunity to become part of a publication dedicated to literary renewal and creative excellence. The management looks forward to receiving outstanding submissions and wishes all prospective contributors success in the process.

Call for Submissions: Imodoye Review 2026

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS: IMODOYE REVIEW 2026

The Board and administration of the Imodoye Writers Residency invite original, bold, and renaissance-minded works that interrogate, renew, restore, and reimagine the rich tapestry of African narratives— across borders, forms, and generations.

The inaugural edition of the Imodoye Review is themed “Words that mend the World,” and is dedicated to the exceptional fellows of the Imodoye Residency. We welcome writers and visual artists from Nigeria and around the world to submit unpublished, original work on any subject, in the following categories:

· Poetry (maximum of two poems per poet)

· Fiction

· Articles

· Reviews

· Critical essays (700-word limit)

Visual artists should submit clear, high-resolution JPEG images. Please note: Imodoye does not discriminate on the basis of location, race, age, sex, or religion— all voices are valued.

Submission Guidelines:

· All entries must be original and unpublished.

· Send your work to imodoyewritersenclave1@gmail.com with the subject line: IR001 SUBMISSIONS.

· Include a brief contributor’s bio (50 words max).

· No simultaneous or double submissions, please.

While the Imodoye Review is not yet a paid publication, each contributor will receive a free e-copy until the print edition becomes available.

Submission Deadline: Friday, 22nd October 2026.

We look forward to reading your work—and wish you the very best.

Management!