Nigerian author Olubunmi Familoni has been awarded the prestigious 2024 NLNG Prize for Literature for his novel The Road Does Not End. The announcement was made during an award night at Eko Hotel, Lagos, where Familoni secured the coveted $100,000 prize.
Emerging victorious from a remarkable 162 entries, The Road Does Not End triumphed over two other finalists: Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmo’s A Father’s Pride and Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike’s Wish Maker. The novel tells the poignant story of Rilwan, a young orphan grappling with loss and searching for his identity. Rilwan’s life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers Fuji music and finds mentorship under his boss, Pepper, adding a rich layer of hope and resilience to his journey.
This year’s competition spotlighted children’s literature, celebrating works that inspire and shape young minds. The advisory board lauded Familoni’s novel for its masterful storytelling, meticulous editing, and impactful themes. They highlighted how The Road Does Not End addresses the pressing issue of child labor while exploring themes of resilience and the importance of human connections.
“The book emphasizes the need for continuous self-improvement and the significance of relationships in overcoming adversity,” they noted.
In addition to Familoni’s triumph, the event also recognized the joint winners of the Prize for Science: Olajide Otitoju, Meihong Wang, and Eni Oko.
During the awards ceremony, Philip Mshelbila, CEO of NLNG, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to shaping a better future through intentional actions. “In NLNG, we acknowledge the divine and recognize that while we may not possess ultimate control of the future, our actions can influence the outcomes of tomorrow,” he stated.
