The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has shortlisted three authors for the 2026 Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature.
The announcement was made as the association prepares to host its 45th International Convention, bringing together writers, literary enthusiasts and other stakeholders.
In a statement jointly signed by the President of ANA, Dr Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the Acting General Secretary, Wole Adedoyin, the association named Dexter Loko, Henry Akubuiro and Oyekitiachi Uzozie Nmezi as the shortlisted authors.
Loko was shortlisted for The Bako of Zereshe, Akubuiro for No Place Like Home, while Nmezi made the shortlist with Chikoba.
The association said the shortlist followed the assessment of submitted works by the prize judges.
“The Association of Nigerian Authors has released the shortlist for the 2026 Chinua Achebe Prize,” the statement said, adding that the announcement formed part of activities leading to the association’s 45th International Convention.
The Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature, established in 2021, recognises excellence and outstanding achievement in Nigerian fiction.
Previous winners of the prize are Obinna Ndenwe, Colours of Hatred (2021); Sylva Nze Ifedigbo, Believers and Hustlers (2022); Nikė Campbell, Saro (2023); Ifeoma Chinwuba, Sons of the East (2024); and Ndidi Chiazor Enenmor, See Morocco, See Spain (2025).
For the 2026–2030 period, ANA said United Nigeria Airlines (UNA) had committed ₦10 million towards the prize money and administrative costs.
According to the association, the sponsorship would support the continued administration of the prize and contribute to the promotion of Nigerian literary excellence.
The winner of the 2026 Chinua Achebe Prize will receive ₦1 million, in addition to a plaque and certificate.
ANA congratulated the three shortlisted authors and commended the judges for their work in evaluating the submitted entries.
The winner is expected to be announced as part of activities surrounding the association’s 45th International Convention.
