By Damiete Braide
In a city pulsating with the energy of its rich cultural heritage, Lagos, once again, became the epicenter of literary celebration as the Committee for Relevant Arts (CORA) and The Nigeria Prize for Literature joined forces to honour the 11 authors longlisted for the 2024 edition of the prize.
Sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), the Nigeria Prize for Literature has, over the past two decades, established itself as one of the most prestigious literary awards in Africa, showcasing the finest in Nigerian writing across four genres: prose fiction, poetry, drama, and children’s literature.
This year, the spotlight is on Children’s Literature, a genre that, despite its profound importance, often remains in the shadows of more popular literary forms such as poetry and the novel.
On a bright Lagos weekend, the longlisted authors gathered at the CORA Book Party, an event that has become a cornerstone in the literary calendar of Nigeria, marking the first public appearance of the authors who were selected from a competitive pool of 163 entries.
The book party, held at the Shell Hall of the Muson Centre, was a vibrant affair, filled with the buzz of excited conversations, the rustling of pages, and the soft, reverent tones of young children reading aloud from the works of the authors. It was a space where the worlds crafted by these writers came alive, with children and adults alike drawn into tales that entertained, educated, and inspired.
In his address of welcome, Andy Odeh, General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, lauded the CORA Book Party as a remarkable event that brings together a vast number of authors, books, and literary enthusiasts under one roof. He noted that the event not only celebrates books but also the entire ecosystem that supports the creation and dissemination of literature. “The CORA Book Party,” he said, “is laden with positive emotions, giving the day its special spark and the awards their glorious luster.”
Odeh went on to emphasise NLNG’s commitment to promoting excellence, a value that has driven the company from its modest beginnings to its current status as a global gas giant. He reflected on the impact the Nigeria Prize for Literature has had over the years, noting how it has spurred improvements in the quality of books, editing, and publishing in Nigeria. The prize, he said, is more than just an award; it is a catalyst for the growth and development of Nigerian literature.
CORA’s Secretary-General, Toyin Akinosho, also spoke at the event, offering insights into the origins of the CORA Book Party. He explained that the event was born out of a desire to do more than just host a glamorous gala night in which one author walked away with a prize. Instead, CORA sought to create a platform where authors could engage directly with their readers, discussing their work in a meaningful and interactive setting.
Akinosho also touched on the challenges of writing for children, noting that it requires a unique ability to see the world through the eyes of a child. “If literature must grow in our society,” he said, “it has to catch the attention of young people when they are not yet teenagers.” He urged the literary community to give more attention to children’s literature, recognizing its potential to shape the future of society by nurturing young minds.
Sophia Horsfall, Manager of Corporate Communication and Public Affairs at NLNG, set the tone for the event with a warm welcome address. She praised the longlisted authors for their remarkable achievements, recognizing the honor and pride they bring not only to themselves but also to their families, their country, and to NLNG. “In celebrating these authors,” Horsfall said, “we also celebrate the power of storytelling and its ability to shape minds and hearts, especially those of the younger generation.”
The 11 books that made it to the longlist were carefully chosen by a panel of judges led by Professor Saleh Abdu of the Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State, alongside Professor Vicky Sylvester and Dr. Osarobu Igudia. The books span a diverse range of themes and styles, yet all are united by their dedication to capturing the imagination and spirit of children.
Among the longlisted works is A Father’s Pride by Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmo, a moving story that delves into the complexities of family relationships and the importance of resilience. Akanni Festus Olaniyi’s Bode’s Birthday Party captures the simple joys of childhood while imparting valuable lessons on friendship and kindness. Jumoke Verissimo’s Grandma and The Moon’s Hidden Secret invites readers into a world of mystery and discovery, where family lore and fantasy intertwine.
Other notable works include Mighty Mite And Golden Jewel by Henry Akubuiro, a tale of adventure and courage; Risi Recycle – The Dustbin Girl by Temiloluwa Adeshina, which addresses environmental consciousness through the eyes of a young protagonist; and The Children At the IDP Camp by Olatunbosun Taofeek, a poignant narrative set against the backdrop of displacement and survival.
The list continues with The Magic Jalabiya by Ayo Oyeku, a story steeped in cultural heritage and magical realism; The Road Does Not End by Familoni Oluranti Olubunmi, a journey through the challenges and triumphs of life; The Third Side of a Coin by Hyginus Ekwuazi, a narrative that explores moral dilemmas and choices; Village Boy by Anietie Usen, a reflection on rural life and the values it instills; and Wish Maker by Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike, a book that taps into the universal desire for dreams to come true.
As the event drew to a close, the atmosphere was charged with hope and anticipation. The longlisted authors had not only been celebrated for their current achievements but were also seen as torchbearers for the future of Nigerian literature. The winner of the 2024 Nigeria Prize for Literature will be announced in October, and as the literary community eagerly awaits this announcement, one thing is certain: the impact of this year’s prize will resonate far beyond the awards ceremony, inspiring the next generation of Nigerian writers and readers.