On October 11, 2025, Oyin Olugbile was officially announced as the distinguished winner of the 2025 Nigeria Prize for Literature, a prestigious accolade awarded for her compelling debut novel, “Sanya.” This esteemed prize stands as Africa’s most significant and largest literature award, recognized globally for its eminence. The triumphant author receives a substantial grand prize of $100,000, underscoring the award’s considerable influence and value within the literary world.

Oyin Olugbile, a multifaceted Nigerian talent, brings a diverse background to her literary achievement. Beyond her role as a writer, she is also a social impact management consultant and an experienced educator. Her academic journey reflects this breadth, commencing with a Creative Arts degree from the University of Lagos. Furthering her expertise, she pursued an MSc in Leadership and Development from King’s College London and holds postgraduate certifications from reputable institutions such as Lagos Business School, Harvard Business School Online, and the School of Politics, Policy and Governance.

Her winning novel, “Sanya,” captivated the prize judges and was celebrated for its outstanding “technique,” profound “subject matter,” and significant “social relevance.” The narrative skillfully draws upon rich Yoruba mythology, weaving a complex tapestry that delves into compelling themes of prophecy, enduring love, intricate power dynamics, and the inexorable hand of destiny. This blend of cultural depth and universal themes resonated strongly with the adjudicating panel.

Olugbile’s path to victory saw her emerge from a competitive longlist that featured a host of notable authors and their works. Among those longlisted alongside her were Yewande Omotoso for “An Unusual Grief,” Linda N. Masi with “Fine Dreams,” Michael Afenfia’s “My Bones in SakasToon,” Uwem Akpan’s “New York, My Village,” Ayo Oyeku’s “Petrichor, The Scent of a New Beginning,” Chika Unigwe’s “The Middle Daughter,” Chigozie Obioma’s “The Road to the Country,” Nikki May’s “This Motherless Land,” Chioma Okereke’s “Water Baby,” and Abubakar Adam Ibrahim’s “When We Were Fireflies.” Her ultimate triumph in such distinguished company highlights the exceptional quality of her debut work.