By Ali Elias
Familoni Oluranti Olubunmi has won the 2024 Nigeria Prize for Literature with his book, “The Road Does Not End”. He received a $100,000 prize at the Nigeria LNG Grand Award night.
The Chairperson of the Advisory Board, Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, announced the winner, selected from 163 entries. Familoni beat out Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmor (“A Father’s Pride”) and Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike (“Wish Maker”).
“A Father’s Pride” by Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmor as a touching story that delves into the complex relationship between a father and his children, highlighting their struggles with love, forgiveness, and understanding.
“The Road Does Not End” by Familoni Oluranti Olubunmi, addresses the critical issue of child labour in society adding that, “The book explores themes of resilience and human connection, emphasising the importance of relationships and the need for continuous self-improvement.”
While the “Wish Maker” by Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike, “Combines suspense, engagement, inspiration, and entertainment. It weaves moral lessons and elements of magic realism, captivating young readers while praising its language and meticulous editing” the Board said.
Prof. Adimora-Ezeigbo praised NLNG for sustaining the prize for 20 years, saying, “The Advisory Board and judges prioritized excellence, recognizing the significant impact on young Nigerians.”
The prize, sponsored by NLNG, rotates among prose, poetry, drama, and children’s literature genres.
Familoni joins past winners in the Children’s Literature category, including Mabel Segun, Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Mai Nasara, and Jude Idada.
NLNG’s Managing Director, Philip Mshelbila, highlighted the company’s support for Nigeria’s Decade of Gas policy and its vision for a better Nigeria.
“In NLNG, we supported the declaration of the Decade of Gas, which the federal Government launched in 2021 to help Nigeria achieve industrialisation, economic prosperity, and tackle energy poverty by using gas as an enabler which aligns with NLNG’s vision to be a globally competitive LNG company helping to build a better Nigeria. I have expressed optimism in several fora that the Decade of Gas policy would enable the country to catch up with the industrialised countries of the world if successfully implemented as planned, while at the same time decarbonizing our ecosystem”
The event, marking NLNG’s 35th anniversary and 25 years of operations, drew notable Nigerians, including traditional rulers, literati, government officials, and diplomats.