Through its Advisory Board, Nigeria LNG Limited recently rang the start bell for the race to win the $100,000 prize money for Literature and Science and $10000 for Literary Criticism.
The novel will be the focus of the Literature Prize in 2025. Prose is a genre that garners significant interest and many entries. It is the genre in which most Nigerian writers excel.
Prof Akachi Admiroa-Ezeigbo, chair of the Advisory Board for the Literature Prize, said, “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 stories that resonate deeply with local and global audiences. “
Even so, only four novelists have won the Nigeria Prize, which rotates between prose, drama, children’s literature, and poetry over four years.
Winners have included Kaine Agari (2008), Yellow Yellow, Chika Unigwe (2012), On Black Sisters’ Street, Abubakar A. Ibrahim (2016), Season of Crimson Blossoms, and Cheluchi Onyemelukwe-Onuobia (2021), The Son of the House.
The Science Prize embraces a modern thematic approach. Submissions should concentrate on innovations in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Digital Technologies.
Read also: Advisory Board opens call for entries for 2025 Nigeria Prize for Literature
The focus on AI arises from the changing face of technology and how it reshapes global economies and industries, creating new job opportunities and transforming productivity. Recent studies suggest that AI could add between 2.6 and 4.4 trillion to global corporate profits annually.
Professor Barth Nnaji, Chair of the Advisory Board for the Science Prize, declared, “The rapid evolution of AI and digital technologies provides a unique opportunity for Nigeria and other developing nations to leapfrog traditional development trajectories. We aim to celebrate groundbreaking solutions that can directly impact Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable development.”
“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.
Global scientists are welcome to compete for the $100000 Science Prize. Their works must demonstrate proof of concept and tangible social impact.
The Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism seeks critical essays focused on contemporary Nigerian literature, particularly new writings in prose. The prize is worth $10,000.
Sophia Horsfall, NLNG’s General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development, noted that research had shown the immense potential of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and digital technologies to reshape global industries and societies and offer innovative solutions to some of humanity’s most pressing challenges.
