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Nigeria Prizes Spotlight AI, Digital Innovation, and Prose Fiction for 2025 Edition

Lagos, Nigeria – The Nigeria Prize for Science and The Nigeria Prize for Literature have opened submissions for their 2025 editions, with a focus on cutting-edge innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies, alongside a literary spotlight on prose fiction.

This year, the Science Prize seeks groundbreaking advancements in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), AI, and digital technologies that have the potential to drive national and global development. Meanwhile, the Literature Prize has called for entries in Prose Fiction, maintaining its tradition of celebrating excellence in Nigerian writing.

AI and Digital Innovation at the Forefront

The emphasis on AI comes as the technology continues to redefine global industries, enhancing productivity and creating new economic opportunities. Studies suggest that AI could contribute between $2.6 trillion and $4.4 trillion to global corporate profits annually.

“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.

He further emphasized AI’s transformative role, stating, “Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a tool; it’s a game-changer. From optimizing 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.”

The Nigeria Prize for Science, which carries a $100,000 award, is open to global scientists and innovators whose completed works demonstrate proof of concept and tangible social impact.

Prose Fiction Takes Center Stage

The Nigeria Prize for Literature, one of the country’s most prestigious literary awards, will focus on Prose Fiction for the 2025 edition. Nigerian authors, irrespective of their country of residence, are invited to submit books published from 2022 onward for a chance to win the $100,000 prize.

“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,” remarked Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Chairperson of the Advisory Board for the Literature Prize.

Prose Fiction has historically attracted one of the highest numbers of entries since the Literature Prize’s inception in 2004. The last cycle in 2020/2021 received over 200 submissions from Nigerian authors. Despite the strong competition, only four winners have emerged in the category: 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).

Spotlight on Literary Criticism

Complementing the literature prize is the Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism, which awards $10,000 for outstanding critical essays on contemporary Nigerian literature, particularly new works in prose.

NLNG’s Commitment to Innovation and Creativity

Speaking on the significance of the 2025 awards, Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at Nigeria LNG (NLNG), highlighted the transformative impact of AI, ICT, and digital technologies in shaping global industries and societies.

“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,” she stated.

NLNG, which sponsors the prizes, continues to play a crucial role in national development by championing innovation and creativity in both science and literature. Through these awards, the organization aims to ensure that technological advancements and literary excellence remain central pillars in Nigeria’s progress.

 

Monday Ashibogwu

Monday Michaels Ashibogwu is Editor-In-Chief of QUICK NEWS AFRICA, one of Nigeria's leading online news service.

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