A Conversation with Oyin Olugbile, Winner of the 2025 NLNG Nigeria Prize for Literature
Oyin Olugbile recently claimed the title of winner of the 2025 NLNG Nigeria Prize for Literature, Africa’s most prestigious literary award, at the NLNG Grand Award Night in Lagos. In an exclusive interview, she reflects on her remarkable achievement and the significance of her novel, Sanya.
The Emotional Moment of Victory
When her name was announced, Oyin described the moment as overwhelming and surreal. “For a few seconds, it felt like time paused,” she shared. The prize, one of the most esteemed honours for African writers, was deeply humbling. Her first thoughts were directed to her family, particularly her late father, whose storytelling inspired her early love for narratives. She also acknowledged her husband and children, crediting their support as the foundation of her work. For her, this moment affirmed the power of storytelling and its ability to connect people across generations.
The Inspiration Behind Sanya
The novel Sanya emerged from Oyin’s desire to reimagine African mythology and tell stories that reflect the depth and authenticity of African culture. The title, which means “to redeem or compensate for hardship or pain,” captures the essence of the story: how choices, power, and ancestral memory shape identity. It is a tale that explores legacy, resistance, and the divine feminine — themes deeply rooted in Africa’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
What Makes Sanya Stand Out?
Oyin believes that Sanya distinguishes itself by challenging perceptions and redefining African mythology. Rather than presenting it as folklore, the novel portrays it as a sophisticated and living philosophy. The book weaves together themes of power, identity, destiny, and transformation, refusing to simplify Africa into a single narrative. By merging myth with contemporary questions about leadership and change, Sanya offers a unique voice that bridges ancient wisdom with modern urgency.
Personal Experiences in the Novel
While Sanya is set in a mythological world, its emotional core is grounded in real-life experiences. Oyin’s background in nonprofit work, social impact, and leadership influenced her approach to storytelling as a tool for change. Her personal journey as a wife, mother, and woman navigating identity is reflected in the characters’ struggles with destiny, power, and belonging. These elements mirror the tensions she has observed in society and within herself.
The Significance of the $100,000 Prize
For Oyin, the $100,000 prize represents more than personal recognition; it is a powerful affirmation of the value of African stories. It serves as a reminder to continue pushing boundaries and writing stories that honor heritage while speaking to the future. On a broader scale, the prize highlights the global potential of Nigerian storytelling, proving that our narratives can command attention and influence conversations worldwide.
The Current State of Nigerian Literature
Oyin sees Nigerian literature as dynamic and evolving. Writers are exploring new genres, experimenting with language, and telling stories that are unapologetically rooted in their experiences. The expanding range of narratives — from local tales to speculative fiction and political commentaries — shows the growing diversity of voices. This evolution is not only claiming space globally but also remaining authentically Nigerian.
Message to Readers
Oyin hopes readers take away a deeper understanding of the richness and complexity of African mythology. She wants them to see these stories as living frameworks for understanding power, destiny, and humanity. Above all, she hopes Sanya inspires young Africans to see themselves reflected in powerful, nuanced ways and to recognize the worth of their stories.
Advice for Future Contestants
To aspiring writers, Oyin advises to write boldly and truthfully. She encourages them to focus on stories that resonate with their innermost truths rather than chasing trends. Reading widely and deeply, both locally and globally, is essential. Most importantly, she reminds them that storytelling is a journey, not a sprint.
The Possibility of a Nobel Prize
While Oyin does not seek awards, she believes in the power of possibility. Her focus remains on the storytelling itself, believing that if her work continues to resonate, it may one day lead to recognition such as the Nobel Prize. However, she emphasizes that the real reward lies in the act of storytelling.
What’s Next?
Oyin is already working on the sequel to Sanya, which will expand the world and deepen the mythology. She is also exploring a screen adaptation, recognizing the power of visual storytelling to bring African narratives to a wider audience. Beyond Sanya, she aims to continue using storytelling as a strategic tool across literature, film, and other mediums to shape narratives, influence change, and leave a lasting legacy.
