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Writers congratulate Olubunmi Familoni for winning The Nigeria Prize for Literature 2024

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  • October 12, 2024
  • 3 min read
Writers congratulate Olubunmi Familoni for winning The Nigeria Prize for Literature 2024

* Call on govt to support writers

By Editor

THE Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) has congratulated Olubunmi Oluranti Familoni, author of The Road Does Not End, for winning the prestigious Nigeria Prize for Literature 2024 with his children’s book. The announcement was made at the Grand Award Night held on Friday, October 11 at the Eko Hotel, Lagos. The prize is worth USD$100,000, awarded by the Advisory Board to the prize, led by its chairperson, Prof. Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, alongside her colleagues on the board, Professors Olu Obafemi and Ahmed Yerima.

President of SYNW, Wole Adedoyin expressed joy over Familoni’s achievement, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his literary talent and dedication. Adedoyin highlighted that The Road Does Not End captures the human condition in a way that resonates deeply with readers, and its selection as the winning entry is a testimony to Familoni’s mastery of storytelling and creativity.

Familoni was among the three finalists for the 2024 edition of the Nigeria Prize for Literature, which is sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG).Others being Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmor (A Father’s Pride) and Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike (Wish Maker).

The other finalists were commended for their exceptional works, but it was The Road Does Not End that stood out for its profound thematic depth, innovative narrative techniques, and exploration of contemporary societal issues.

Adedoyin, in his congratulatory message, emphasized that Familoni’s win not only brings pride to the Nigerian literary community but also serves as inspiration for young and emerging writers across the country. He further stated that the SYNW is committed to supporting and promoting Nigerian writers in their pursuit of excellence and literary accomplishments.

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Olubunmi Familoni (left) and his publisher at Noirledge Publishing, Servio Gbadamosi at the award night… in Lagos

The Nigeria Prize for Literature, which has become one of the most sought-after literary prizes in Africa, continues to encourage the development of Nigerian literature by rewarding excellence. The chairperson of the Advisory Board praised Familoni’s work for its originality, emotional depth, and the way it captures the intricacies of human experience. She noted that the decision was a tough one, given the quality of submissions this year, but that The Road Does Not End was chosen for its outstanding literary merit.

In addition to the congratulatory message from SYNW, various writers, critics, and literary enthusiasts across the country have hailed Familoni’s victory as a landmark achievement. They believe that his win will further strengthen the position of Nigerian literature on the global stage.

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers has also called on the government and private sector to continue supporting literary initiatives such as The Nigeria Prize for Literature, which plays a crucial role in nurturing talents and promoting the nation’s rich cultural heritage.

As the literary community celebrates this monumental achievement, SYNW reiterates its commitment to creating platforms for writers to hone their skills and contribute to the growth of Nigerian literature. The society believes that with more opportunities and recognition, Nigerian writers will continue to excel both locally and internationally.

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