Highlighting Child Labor and Resilience in Children’s Literature.
Renowned Nigerian author, Olubunmi Oluranti Familoni, has etched his name in literary history by winning the coveted 2024 Nigeria Prize for Literature. His gripping book, “The Road Does Not End”, not only triumphed over two strong contenders but also captivated the hearts of the judging panel, earning him a grand prize of $100,000.
The prize, organized by Nigeria LNG (NLNG), remains the most prestigious literary award in the country, and this year, it focused on children’s literature.
The Chairperson of the Advisory Board, Professor Akachi Ezeigbo, announced Familoni’s victory at a grand ceremony on Friday, October 11, 2024, held at the luxurious Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Familoni’s “The Road Does Not End” was pitted against two other exceptional works: “A Father’s Pride” by Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmo and “Wish Maker” by Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike. Yet, Familoni’s masterpiece emerged victorious, praised for its language, technical proficiency, and poignant subject matter.
In her address, Professor Ezeigbo delved into why “The Road Does Not End” resonated so deeply with the judges. “The book addresses the critical issue of child labor in society. The book explores themes of resilience and human connection, emphasizing the importance of relationships and the need for continuous self-improvement.”
The Advisory Board lauded Familoni’s work for its meticulous editing and the seamless manner in which it handles the delicate yet essential topic of child labor.
Familoni’s victory further highlights the importance of literature in shaping minds, especially the younger generation. “The impact this prize has on young Nigerians cannot be overstated,” Professor Ezeigbo said. She commended the NLNG for establishing a platform that celebrates literary excellence and supports the nation’s growing body of writers.
The Nigeria Prize for Literature has become a symbol of literary distinction. Familoni’s work, focusing on children’s literature, tackles one of society’s most pressing issues: child labor. Through engaging storytelling and an emphasis on resilience, “The Road Does Not End” shines a light on the often-overlooked realities faced by children in difficult circumstances.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Familoni expressed gratitude for the platform NLNG has created through this prestigious award. “I commend the NLNG for creating the annual Prize, which has elevated literature and empowered many writers,” he said.
The three judges on the 2024 panel were led by Professor Saleh Abdu of the Federal University of Kashere in Gombe State. He was joined by seasoned literary professionals, Professor Vicky Sylvester and Dr. Osarobu Igudia. Together, they had the challenging task of selecting a winner from an exceptional pool of entries. Their unanimous decision in favor of “The Road Does Not End” reflects the book’s depth, its appeal to the younger audience, and its societal relevance.
This year’s Nigeria Prize for Literature highlights the impact that children’s literature can have on shaping the worldview of young minds. By tackling sensitive and challenging subjects such as child labor, Familoni’s work serves not just as a story but as a call to action for readers and society alike. His book serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging resilience in the face of adversity and reminding readers of the importance of human connection in overcoming life’s obstacles.
The Nigeria Prize for Literature is part of NLNG’s commitment to fostering Nigerian arts and culture. The prize alternates yearly among four literary genres: prose fiction, poetry, drama, and children’s literature. This year, children’s literature was at the forefront, underscoring the vital role literature plays in educating and inspiring young readers. Familoni’s win is a testament to the growing recognition of children’s literature as a powerful tool for societal change.
Beyond literature, the NLNG Prize for Science 2024 also made headlines this year. The Advisory Board of the Nigeria Prize for Science had earlier announced a trio of winners: Olajide Otitoju, Eni Oko, and Professor Meihong Wang.
Their groundbreaking research on Process Intensification Technology earned them recognition for their contribution to scientific advancement. This dual celebration of both literature and science reflects NLNG’s broader vision of fostering innovation and creativity across multiple disciplines.
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