ANA Unveils Shortlists for 2026 Literary Prizes

ANA UNVEILS SHORTLISTS FOR 2026 LITERARY PRIZES

By ANA Media Team 

 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has unveiled the shortlists for the 2026 edition of its annual Literary Prizes, recognising outstanding works across poetry, fiction, drama, literary criticism, non-fiction and children’s fiction.

The unveiling was contained in a press statement issued by the President of the Association of Nigerian Authors, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the Acting General Secretary, Wole Adedoyin. It marks another stage in the Association’s longstanding tradition of celebrating literary excellence and providing a platform for writers whose works contribute to the development and diversity of Nigerian literature.

The 2026 prizes cover eight major literary categories. The shortlisted works and authors, in no particular order, are as follows:

1. ANA/KMVL PRIZE FOR POETRY

1. Abraham Aondoana — Songs for a Burning Continent

2. Ebi Yeibo — Cantos of a Capsized Canoe

3. Jide Salawu — Contraband Bodies

2. ANA/KING DAKOLO PRIZE FOR FICTION

1. Yejide Kilanko — In Our Own Ways

2. Onyikan Braithwaite — Cursed Daughters

3. Onyeka Nwelue — Murder in Orania

3. ANA PRIZE FOR DRAMA

1. Uzo Nwamara — Eye of the Emperor

2. Selome Medemaku — The Throne of Silence

3. Bolaji Olatunde — Life Less Abundant

4. ANA/AMINA TALAKU ZAKAMA PRIZE FOR LITERARY CRITICISM

1. Onyebuchi Nwosu — “Poetic Kaleidoscope: Portrayal of Judicial Corruption in Niyi Osundare’s ‘My Lord, Tell Me Where to Keep Your Bribe.’”

2. Barthlomew Chizoba Akpah — “Negotiating Nigeria’s Cohesion and the Rhetoric of Herdsmen Attack in Ahmed Yerima’s Hendu.”

3. Ekikerebong Aniekan Usoro — “Postcolonialism in Transition: From Counter Discourse to Non-Counter Discourse in Joe Ushie’s Yawns and Belches.”

5. ANA/SIR CHUKWUEMEKA SAM NWELUE PRIZE FOR NON-FICTION

1. Al-Bishak — Humility Sparks Progress

2. Chude Jideonwo — How Depression Saved My Life

6. ANA/NGOZI CHUMA-UDEH PRIZE FOR CHILDREN FICTION

1. Amaechi Odimeze — Avarice

2. Foluke Sijuwola Falayi — Beans for Supper

3. Amaka Confidence Obinwogu — Friends till Friday

7. HRM EZE M. O. KANU/ANA PRIZE FOR YOUNG ADULT LITERATURE

1. Erhu Kome — The Smoke that Thunders

2. Peter Adah — A Twist of Fate

3. Bola Tijani — Aremu in Trouble

8. CHINUA ACHEBE PRIZE FOR LITERATURE

1. Dexter Loko — The Bako of Zereshe

2. Henry Akubuiro — No Place Like Home

3. Oyedikachi Uzozie Nmezi — Chikoba

The ANA Literary Prizes constitute one of the Association’s longstanding platforms for recognising excellence in Nigerian writing. Over the years, the prizes have provided opportunities for writers working in different genres to gain visibility and for significant works of Nigerian literature to receive wider recognition.

Beyond the recognition attached to individual awards, the ANA Literary Prizes contribute to the wider literary ecosystem by drawing attention to authors and books, encouraging readership and creating a platform for writers, publishers, critics, academics and literary enthusiasts to engage with contemporary Nigerian writing.

The prizes also serve as a record of the development of Nigerian literature, bringing together established and emerging voices while reflecting changing literary interests, experiences and perspectives across generations.

The presentation of the prizes at the ANA International Annual Convention gives the awards a wider cultural significance, bringing writers, academics, publishers, literary enthusiasts and other stakeholders together to celebrate Nigerian literature and its continuing contribution to the cultural and intellectual life of the nation.

The shortlisted authors will now proceed to the final stage of the competition, with the winners expected to be announced during the Awards Dinner at the 2026 ANA International Annual Convention, scheduled for 29 October to 1 November 2026.

The Association of Nigerian Authors congratulates all the shortlisted writers and acknowledges the literary value represented by the works that have made the final lists. Their recognition underscores the continuing vitality of Nigerian literature and the important role of writers in shaping the country’s cultural and intellectual landscape.

ANA Oyo Elects New Executive, Philomena Nwoko Emerges Chairman

ANA OYO ELECTS NEW EXECUTIVE, PHILOMENA NWOKO EMERGES CHAIRMAN 

By ANA Media Team 

The Oyo State Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has elected a new executive council led by Dr. Philomena Ngozi Nwoko as Chairman for a two-year term. 

The election was held on Saturday, 26 September 2026, at the Large Lecture Theatre, Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan, during the 35th Annual Convention of the Association of Nigerian Authors, Oyo State Chapter.

Dr. Nwoko emerged Chairman after polling 14 votes to defeat her opponent, Olumide Adesola Sowunmi, who scored 13 votes. Mr. Saka Wasiu Laide was elected Vice-Chairman unopposed, while Fakunle Busayo Ayorinde emerged Secretary with 17 votes against Ojo Adekunle Olarotimi, who scored nine votes.

For the position of Assistant Secretary, Olasumbo Comfort Adeogun polled 17 votes to defeat Goodness Olachi Adebolu, who recorded five votes. Olagundoye Charles was elected Treasurer unopposed, while Olaniyi Joseph emerged Public Relations Officer, also unopposed.

Following the announcement of the results, the newly elected officers were sworn in as members of the Executive Council of the ANA Oyo State Chapter for the next two years. The new executive comprises Dr. Philomena Ngozi Nwoko, Chairman; Mr. Saka Wasiu Laide, Vice-Chairman; Fakunle Busayo Ayorinde, Secretary; Olasumbo Comfort Adeogun, Assistant Secretary; Olagundoye Charles, Treasurer; and Olaniyi Joseph, Public Relations Officer.

The election was conducted by an Electoral Committee headed by Mr. Jide Ogunlana, with Mr. Idris Bankole and Mr. Sesan Akinola serving as members. The exercise was conducted peacefully and amicably, with Wole Adedoyin, Acting National General Secretary of ANA, observing the election on behalf of the National Secretariat.

Before the commencement of the physical election, Mr. Adedoyin delivered a message from the National President of ANA, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, to the Congress. In the message, the National President urged contestants and members to approach the election with maturity, peace, fairness and a strong sense of responsibility, stressing that despite individual differences, members remained united by a common commitment to literature and the welfare of Nigerian writers.

The National President also commended all the contestants for offering themselves for service and called on them to maintain the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the electoral process. He urged the Electoral Committee to conduct the exercise in accordance with the approved guidelines and ensure that the process remained transparent, orderly, peaceful and credible.

Dr. Akanbi further reminded members that the election was only one part of the broader task of building a stronger Association. He urged whoever emerged victorious to regard the outcome as a call to service, while encouraging other contestants to continue contributing their experience, ideas and energy to the development of the chapter and the Association as a whole.

In her acceptance speech, the newly elected Chairman, Dr. Philomena Ngozi Nwoko, expressed appreciation to the National Executive Council, particularly the National President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, for his efforts towards strengthening ANA chapters across the country. She also commended the National Executive Council for the support extended to ANA Oyo and thanked members of the Oyo State Chapter for the confidence reposed in the new executive.

Dr. Nwoko called for the continued support, cooperation, peace and unity of all members as the new executive begins its tenure. She pledged to work with members and other stakeholders towards the growth of ANA Oyo and the advancement of literary activities in the state. 

The peaceful conduct of the election, the Association said, reflects the chapter's commitment to democratic participation, fellowship and the collective development of Nigerian literature.

 

ANA Leaders, State Chairmen Honour Late Mama Margaret Ukah At Funeral in Imo

ANA LEADERS, STATE CHAIRMEN HONOUR LATE MAMA MARGARET UKAH AT FUNERAL IN IMO

 

By ANA Media Team

 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) honoured the memory of Late Mama Margaret Ugoeke Ukah, mother of the immediate past National President of the Association, Mr. Camillus Ukah, as national leaders, former presidents, state chairmen and members joined her family for her funeral ceremonies at Okrikama-Umuokirika, Ahiazu-Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.

 

Among those who attended were two former Presidents of ANA, Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan, who is also Chairman of the Association’s Board of Trustees, and Professor Olu Obafemi. The current President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, also attended alongside Professor Razinat Mohammed.

 

Other national officers present included the National Treasurer, National Vice President, Professor Obari Gomba, National Financial Secretary and former General Secretary of the Association, Mr. Maik Ortserga. State Chairmen from Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Imo, Rivers and Enugu States, as well as the Chairman of the ANA Bayelsa State Branch, also attended.

 

The funeral programme featured a two-day free Medical Outreach and Crusade on September 23 and 24, followed by a special ANA Reading Session and Night of Reading and Tributes on September 24. The literary activities provided members and participants an opportunity to remember Mama Margaret through poetry, readings and reflections.

 

At the Night of Reading and Tributes, Mr. Jonah Okpabi Jr., Publicity Secretary of the ANA Rivers State Branch, presented Professor Obari Gomba’s poem, *Let the Drums Greet the Lion One*, from his collection, *Pearls of the Mangrove*. The Chairperson of the ANA Rivers State Branch, Madam Joyful Joy Esuku, also presented her poem, *The Night Serenade*, in honour of the deceased. Readings were done by other members of the Association. 

 

Professor Obari Gomba piloted the proceedings of the literary tribute, which brought together writers and members of the Association in an evening of poetry, remembrance and reflection.

 

The funeral service was held on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Old St. Patrick’s School, Umuokirika, Ekwerazu, Ahiazu-Mbaise, followed by her interment at the compound of Late Mr. Louis Ukah, Okrikama, Umuokirika.

 

The participation of ANA’s leadership and members, alongside the literary tributes organised in her honour, stressed the Association’s solidarity with Mr. Camillus Ukah and his family while giving a distinctive literary dimension to the celebration of Mama Margaret Ugoeke Ukah’s life and memory.

ANA Continues Celebration of Prof. Femi Osofisan Through Third-Quarter Mbari Lecture Series

 ANA CONTINUES CELEBRATION OF PROF. FEMI OSOFISAN THROUGH THIRD-QUARTER MBARI LECTURE SERIES

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) will on Saturday, September 26, 2026, continue its celebration of Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan with the third-quarter edition of the ANA Mbari Lecture Series, bringing together writers, academics, intellectuals and thought leaders to reflect on the enduring relevance of his literary and intellectual contributions.

The September edition of the quarterly intellectual gathering is themed “Through Osofisan’s Lens: Literature, Power and the Pursuit of Social Justice,” a theme that places Osofisan’s extensive body of work and engagement with society at the centre of discussions on literature, power, social responsibility and the pursuit of justice.

The lecture series, organised as part of ANA’s sustained celebration of the distinguished playwright, poet, novelist, critic and scholar, is designed to provide a platform for critical engagement with ideas that have shaped Nigerian literature and public discourse. Through the Mbari Series, ANA continues to celebrate Osofisan not only as a literary figure but also as an influential voice whose works have consistently interrogated power, inequality, injustice and the human condition.

Professor Vicky Sylvester will headline the September edition, while Professor Udenta O. Udenta will serve as host. Other distinguished participants include Dr Tunde Olusunle, Dr Olabode Onjiyi, Mr Paul Liam and Ms Esther Adelana, who will serve as discussants and contribute to the intellectual interrogation of the theme.

Professor Kyuka Lilymjok will chair the session, while Oko Owi Ocho (Afrika) will moderate the proceedings. Ngozi Alutulu-Ebelum will serve as Secretary and Co-Moderator, with ANA President, Dr Usman Oladipo Akanbi, serving as Chief Host.

The gathering is expected to explore the relationship between literary expression and social transformation, particularly the ways Osofisan’s writings have engaged questions of authority, resistance, social justice and the responsibilities of the writer in society.

For ANA, the Mbari Lecture Series represents more than a commemorative programme. It is also an avenue for sustaining serious intellectual conversations around Nigerian literature and ensuring that the ideas, creative interventions and critical traditions associated with leading figures in the literary community remain subjects of continuing study and engagement.

The third-quarter edition will hold at 11:00 a.m. prompt at the ANA National Secretariat, Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, Mpape Road, Abuja. The programme will also be accessible virtually through Google Meet, allowing writers, scholars and literary enthusiasts beyond Abuja to participate in the conversation.

The September gathering further demonstrates ANA’s commitment to using its programmes to celebrate distinguished Nigerian writers while creating platforms for reflection on the place of literature in national development, social consciousness and the advancement of a more just society.

As the Association continues its celebration of Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan, the third-quarter Mbari Lecture Series is expected to provide another significant opportunity for the literary community to examine his enduring legacy and the continuing relevance of his ideas to contemporary Nigeria and the wider world.

ANA Book Party To Spotlight Olaitan Abiodun's Mirrors of Life and Miracles

ANA BOOK PARTY TO SPOTLIGHT OLAITAN ABIODUN’S MIRRORS OF LIFE AND MIRACLES

By ANA Media Team 

The President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, has continued to promote reading culture and literary engagement through the Association’s book party initiative, providing a platform for authors to present their works and interact directly with readers. 

The initiative, which has featured several ANA members since its inauguration, is also an example that the Association’s state chapters could emulate in strengthening literary activities and encouraging a vibrant reading culture across the country.

The latest edition of the ANA Book Party will today, Friday, September 25, 2026, spotlight Olaitan Abiodun and her new theatrical work, Mirrors of Life and Miracles, at the ANA-Yusuf Ali Library and Research Centre, ANA National Secretariat, Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, Maitama Extension, Km. 2, Mpape Road, Abuja.

The programme, which begins at 4:00 p.m., is themed “Mirrors of Life: Reflecting Life’s Realities on Stage” and is expected to bring together writers, literary enthusiasts, theatre lovers, academics and members of the public for an afternoon of literature, theatre, reflection and celebration.

Since the inauguration of the book party, the initiative has provided ANA members with opportunities to showcase their books, discuss their creative journeys and engage audiences around their literary works. Beyond book launches, the programme has become a platform for conversations around writing, reading and the place of literature in contemporary Nigerian society.

Mirrors of Life and Miracles is a theatrical work that explores faith, secrets, heartbreak, resilience and the unexpected turns that shape human lives. Through its dramatic treatment of these themes, the play invites readers and theatre audiences to reflect on the complexities of human experiences and the realities that shape individual lives.

The event will be hosted by Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, President of ANA, while Dr. Kabura Zakama, ANA Consultant, will serve as Chairman. Husayn Zaguru, Residency Manager, will moderate the programme, with Ngozi Alutulu-Ebulum serving as Coordinator. Olaitan Abiodun will feature as the guest author.

The book party also underscores ANA’s broader commitment to creating platforms that encourage Nigerians to read, write and engage with literature. By bringing authors and readers together, the Association is seeking to make literary activities more accessible while sustaining conversations around Nigerian books and the creative imagination.

The use of the ANA-Yusuf Ali Library and Research Centre as the venue further reinforces the importance of libraries and dedicated literary spaces in promoting reading, research and intellectual engagement. The Centre provides a fitting environment for authors, readers and literary practitioners to meet and exchange ideas.

Mirrors of Life and Miracles is available in print and on Amazon at ₦10,000 per copy. The ANA Book Party is open to writers, readers, theatre practitioners, academics, literary enthusiasts and members of the public interested in literature and the performing arts.

Through the continuing book party initiative, ANA is demonstrating how regular literary gatherings can contribute to the development of a stronger reading culture. 

The Association encourages its state chapters to develop similar programmes that will give members opportunities to showcase their works, attract new readers and keep literature at the centre of cultural and intellectual life in Nigeria.

ANA Lagos Elects New Executives, Olatunbosun Returns As Chairman

ANA LAGOS ELECTS NEW EXECUTIVES, OLATUNBOSUN RETURNS AS CHAIRMAN

By ANA Media Team 

The Lagos State Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has elected its new executive officers, with Dr. Taofeek Olatunbosun returning as Chairman for another two-year term.

The chapter's 2026 election was conducted in two phases—an online election followed by the physical election held yesterday, Saturday, 19 September 2026, at the premises of the Lagos State Library Board.

The physical election was attended by over 30 members of the Association, including former National Secretary, Mr. Mature Tanko Okoduwa; pioneer Chairman of the Lagos Chapter, Dr. Tolu Ajayi; Mr. Dagga Tola; Mr. Eriata Oribhabor; Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Avajah and other distinguished members.

The Electoral Committee was headed by Mr. Yemi Adebiyi, with Mr. Eluwa Chijioba and Dr Mary-Joan Nwagwu serving as members.

Dr. Olatunbosun, who was first elected Chairman of the chapter in 2024, was returned unopposed with 53 votes. Deborah Omoaregba emerged Vice Chairman with 32 votes, defeating Adetutu Solape, who polled 26 votes, while Ndidi Chiazor-Enemuo withdrew from the contest.

For the position of Secretary, Amarachukwu Chika-Stevens emerged with 33 votes after her opponent, Mr. Olaoluwa Oluwarinde, withdrew from the race. Ebuzhafe Ogunsanya was elected Legal Adviser with 45 votes unopposed, while Yohanna Waliya emerged as Public Relations Officer with 44 votes, also unopposed.

Before the commencement of the physical election, Mr. Wole Adedoyin, Acting National General Secretary of ANA, who was delegated by the National Executive Council to observe the exercise, read a message from the National President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi.

In the message, Dr. Akanbi commended the Lagos Chapter for successfully conducting the online and physical election. He urged members, particularly contestants and their supporters, to approach the electoral process with maturity, discipline and mutual respect, stressing that differences in electoral aspirations should not undermine the fellowship and unity of the Association.

The National President also reaffirmed the commitment of the National Executive Council to an orderly, transparent and credible electoral process. He called on members to respect the approved electoral guidelines and cooperate with the Electoral Committee and National Observer, while urging them to protect the unity, dignity and institutional integrity of the Lagos Chapter.

The positions of Assistant Secretary, Financial Secretary, Treasurer and two ex-officio positions were left vacant. 

The physical election was conducted peacefully and amicably, with Mr. Adedoyin observing the exercise on behalf of the National Secretariat.

In his acceptance speech, Dr. Olatunbosun expressed appreciation to the National Executive Council, particularly the National President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, for his efforts to strengthen ANA chapters and for the support extended to ANA Lagos. He also thanked members for renewing their confidence in his leadership and called for their continued support, cooperation, peace and unity.

He assured members that he would use the renewed mandate to deepen his commitment to the growth of ANA Lagos and the advancement of a more vibrant literary community.

Call for Entries: Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature 2026

CALL FOR ENTRIES: CHINUA ACHEBE PRIZE FOR LITERATURE 2026

DEADLINE: 15 SEPTEMBER 2026

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) announces the Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature 2026, an annual prize recognising excellence and outstanding achievement in Nigerian fiction.

ANA appreciates United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) for its sponsorship commitment of ₦20 million towards prize money and administrative costs for 2026–2036.

Nigerian writers at home and abroad are invited to submit published novels for consideration. Works must have been published in 2025 or 2026. Manuscripts are not eligible. There is no entry fee.

REQUIREMENTS

Authors or publishers must submit:

- Ten (10) copies of the published novel;

- Proof of Nigerian citizenship;

- A covering letter stating the prize being entered for;

- Author's email address, telephone number and postal address;

- Publisher's details, publication year and ISBN.

An author may submit only one title. Works previously entered for the prize are not eligible. Entries must be original and must comply with Nigerian copyright laws. Authors and publishers are responsible for any copyright infringement.

JUDGING AND ELIGIBILITY

Entries will be assessed on literary quality, originality, creativity, language, narrative craft, characterisation and thematic depth.

The prize is not open to members of ANA's Board of Trustees (BOT), National Executive Council (NEC), the judging panel, United Nigeria Airlines staff, or their immediate family members.

Judges must disclose and recuse themselves from any entry where there is a conflict of interest, including where they have edited, published or written supporting material for the work.

ANA reserves the right to verify information supplied and disqualify entries that do not meet the requirements. Submitted copies will not be returned.

PRIZE

The winner will receive ₦1,000,000 (One Million Naira) and a plaque/certificate.

Where there is no deserving entry, or no entry at all, the prize may be deferred. Where there is only one entry, it may be awarded if the judges consider it deserving. The decision of the judges is final.

DEADLINE

Submission Deadline: 15 September 2026

Shortlist: 15 October 2026

Winner: To be announced at the Awards Dinner during the ANA International Annual Convention, 29 October–1 November 2026.

SUBMISSION ADDRESS

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/courier services.

Mr. Wole Adedoyin

Acting General Secretary

Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA)