NLNG Prize for Literary Criticism 2025 | $10,000 Up for Grabs

The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Prize for Literary Criticism is back for 2025, and this year, it promises to be even more exciting. This prestigious award, which goes hand-in-hand with the NLNG Prize for Literature, aims to encourage insightful and engaging critiques of Nigerian literature.

For the 2025 edition, the spotlight is on Children’s Literature, a genre that plays a vital role in shaping young minds and preserving our rich cultural heritage. 

The NLNG Prize for Literary Criticism was created to foster intellectual discussions around Nigerian literature. While writers get recognition for their creative works, critics help readers understand and interpret these stories better. By providing this platform, NLNG encourages both creativity and the critical thinking that drives the growth of Nigerian literature.

The winner of the NLNG Prize for Literary Criticism 2025 will walk away with a cash prize of $10,000 (about ₦9.2 million, depending on exchange rates). Beyond the money, the prize offers national and international recognition, as winners often become key voices in Nigerian literary circles.

To qualify for the 2025 edition of the NLNG Prize for Literary Criticism, here’s what you need to know:

• Open to All Critics Worldwide:
• Whether you live in Nigeria or abroad, you are welcome to apply as long as your essays focus on Nigerian literature.

• Focus on Children’s Literature:
• This year, NLNG is particularly interested in critical essays about books written for children. The aim is to promote better storytelling that educates, entertains, and inspires Nigerian children

• Recent Publications Only:
• The essays must have been published from 2021 onwards. Old works won’t be considered.

To enter for the prize, applicants must:

• Submit three (3) original critical essays on Nigerian literature, with at least one focused on Children’s Literature.

• Ensure the essays have been published in recognized academic journals, magazines, or reputable online platforms.

• Fill and submit the application form available on the official NLNG Prize website: www.thenigeriaprizes.org.

Entries must be submitted before the official deadline. Though the exact closing date is yet to be announced, it’s best to prepare and submit your essays early.

Winning the NLNG Prize for Literary Criticism is more than just receiving a cheque. Here’s why you should consider applying:

Financial Reward: $10,000 is no small money, especially for doing something you’re passionate about.

Professional Recognition: Past winners have gained local and international recognition for their critical work.

Contribution to Nigerian Literature: Your essays could help shape how people perceive and appreciate Nigerian stories.

Focus on Quality: Ensure your essays are clear, insightful, and well-researched.

Engage with the Text: Go beyond surface-level observations. Dig deep into themes, character development, and cultural relevance.

Use Simple Language: While you’re writing for intellectuals, your work should still be accessible to non-academics.