The Nigeria Prize for Science and The Nigeria Prize for Literature, two of the country’s most prestigious awards, have opened submissions for their 2025 editions, promising an exciting year for innovation and creativity.
This year, the Nigeria Prize for Science focuses on groundbreaking advancements in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Digital Technologies, with a vision to foster solutions that drive development. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Prize for Literature shifts its spotlight to Prose Fiction, inviting compelling narratives that reflect and reshape society.
Professor Barth Nnaji, Chairman of the Advisory Board for the science prize, underscored the importance of AI in reshaping global industries and its potential to address critical challenges in Nigeria.
“The rapid evolution of AI and digital technologies provides a unique opportunity for Nigeria and other developing nations to leapfrog traditional development trajectories. Our goal is to celebrate groundbreaking solutions that can directly impact Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable development,” Nnaji stated.
“Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a tool; it’s a game-changer. From optimising agriculture in diverse climates to improving public health infrastructure and transforming Nigeria’s digital economy, AI holds immense potential to drive inclusive and sustainable growth,” he added.
The Nigeria Prize for Science offers a $100,000 reward, inviting global scientists and innovators to submit completed works that demonstrate proof of concept and tangible social impact.
The Nigeria Prize for Literature, valued at $100,000, calls for entries in Prose Fiction from authors of Nigerian descent, whether resident in Nigeria or abroad. Eligible books must have been published between 2022 and 2025.
Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Chairperson of the Advisory Board for the Literature Prize, highlighted the significance of storytelling in understanding societal experiences.
“Prose literature is a mirror reflecting our society. Through storytelling, we find ways to understand our collective experiences and envision a better future. This year’s competition promises to bring forward stories that resonate deeply with both local and global audiences,” Adimora-Ezeigbo remarked.
Prose Fiction has consistently garnered significant interest, with over 200 entries in its last cycle (2020/2021). Previous winners include Yellow Yellow by Kaine Agari (2008), On Black Sisters’ Street by Chika Unigwe (2012), Season of Crimson Blossoms by Abubakar A. Ibrahim (2016), and The Son of the House by Cheluchi Onyemelukwe-Onuobia (2021).
Complementing this is the Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism, offering $10,000 for critical essays focused on contemporary Nigerian literature, particularly new prose writings.
Speaking on the launch of the 2025 cycle, Sophia Horsfall, General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development, emphasized the transformative potential of ICT, AI, and digital technologies in solving global challenges.
She stated that as the world transitions from the Industrial Age to the Intelligent Age, these advancements provide new opportunities to drive economic growth, foster social progress, and build a sustainable future.
NLNG continues to contribute significantly to national development, by championing innovation, creativity and ensuring that science and literature remain vital pillars in shaping Nigeria’s future.
