I don’t think prizes define the strength of Nigerian literature. And not winning any of the prizes on offer at last year’s Caine Prize and Commonwealth competitions does not diminish the richness of Nigerian writing. The important thing to note is that there is a strong tide of young Nigerian writers embracing writing, becoming much more keen and expressive... - Uche Peter Umez

Outside football and Nollywood, literature is one boon even Nigeria’s most rabid haters agree we have given the world. Our writers continue to bring pride to Nigeria with their solid achievements. Prizes might not be the best way of assessing literary impact but for our writers, both the grandees and grandchildren, to continuously win laurels on an almost annual basis imply that we are getting it right...

As the choristers' sonorous entrance hymn ascended to heaven, Daniyan took a deep breath and casually unbuttoned his natty jacket. His placid mien concealed the raging storm. Another battle like last night's was out of the question. Killing a priest who gave you your first holy communion, even for a lapsed Catholic, was the ultimate test...

Abui’s smile was terrible. “You sound like a starving frog.” He cautiously stood up, his eyes and gun trained on his ex-friend. “You crossed a desperate thing, Sule. Power is a woman you fought and killed for. You don’t give up such conquest easily...”