By Bunmi Yekini
The Nigeria Prize for Science and The Nigeria Prize for Literature, two of the country’s most prestigious awards, have opened submissions for their 2025 editions, with a focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Prose Fiction.
For this year’s Science Prize, the spotlight is on innovations in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), AI, and Digital Technologies that can drive sustainable development. The prize, which comes with a $100,000 reward, is open to global scientists and innovators whose completed works demonstrate proof of concept and tangible social impact.
“The rapid evolution of AI and digital technologies provides a unique opportunity for Nigeria and other developing nations to leapfrog traditional development trajectories,” said Professor Barth Nnaji, Chairman of the Advisory Board for the Science Prize. “Our goal is to celebrate groundbreaking solutions that can directly impact Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable development.”
Nnaji highlighted AI’s transformative potential, stating, “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.”
Recent studies suggest AI could contribute between $2.6 trillion and $4.4 trillion to global corporate profits annually, underscoring its role in shaping future economies.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Prize for Literature will focus on Prose Fiction for its 2025 edition. Nigerian authors, whether residing in the country or abroad, can submit books published from 2022 onward for a chance to win the $100,000 award.
“Prose literature is a mirror reflecting our society,” said Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Chairperson of the Advisory Board for the Literature Prize. “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.”
Since its inception in 2004, the Literature Prize has only produced four winning entries in the Prose Fiction 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). The last Prose Fiction cycle in 2020/2021 attracted over 200 submissions from Nigerian authors.
Complementing the Literature Prize is the Nigeria Prize for Literary Criticism, which awards $10,000 to outstanding critical essays focused on contemporary Nigerian literature, particularly prose fiction.
Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, emphasized the significance of the 2025 competitions, stating that research has shown the immense potential of AI, ICT, and digital technologies in reshaping 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,” Horsfall noted.