By Ali Elias
NEWS
Submissions have opened for the 2025 Nigeria Prize for Science and the Nigeria Prize for Literature, two of Africa’s most prestigious awards, each valued at $100,000.
This year, the Science Prize focuses on breakthroughs in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Digital Technologies that can drive development. The Literature Prize, meanwhile, is calling for Prose Fiction entries.
“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,” said Professor Barth Nnaji, Chairman of the Advisory Board for the Science Prize.
With AI reshaping economies, experts estimate it could add between $2.6 trillion and $4.4 trillion to global corporate profits annually. “Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a tool; it’s a game-changer. From optimizing agriculture to improving public health and transforming Nigeria’s digital economy, AI holds immense potential,” Nnaji added.
The competition is open to global scientists whose work demonstrates practical solutions and measurable social impact.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Prize for Literature, known as one of the world’s top literary awards, is seeking Prose Fiction submissions from Nigerian authors worldwide. Books published from 2022 onward are eligible.
“Prose literature is a mirror reflecting our society. Through storytelling, we understand our collective experiences and envision a better future. This year’s competition promises stories that resonate with both local and global audiences,” said Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Chairperson of the Advisory Board for the Literature Prize.
Prose Fiction remains a highly competitive category, with over 200 entries in the last cycle (2020/2021). Only four books have won since the prize’s inception in 2004: Yellow Yellow by Kaine Agari (2008), On Black Sisters’ Street by Chika Unigwe (2012), Season of Crimson Blossoms by Abubakar A. Ibrahim (2016), The Son of the House by Cheluchi Onyemelukwe-Onuobia (2021)
Additionally, the Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism invites essays on contemporary Nigerian literature, particularly new works in prose. The winner will receive a $10,000 cash award.
Speaking on the significance of the prizes, Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, highlighted how ICT, AI, and digital technologies are reshaping global industries. “These advancements offer solutions to some of humanity’s most pressing challenges and create opportunities for economic growth and social progress,” she said.
NLNG sponsors the three prizes as part of its commitment to innovation, creativity, and national development. The Science Prize honors global scientists addressing Nigeria-specific challenges, while the Literature and Literary Criticism prizes celebrate Nigerian literary excellence.
With these prizes ranked among Africa’s most prestigious, the 2025 cycle promises to spotlight groundbreaking scientific discoveries and powerful storytelling.