Theme Overview
We’re calling on Arewa poets or poets curious about northern Nigeria and its rich tapestry of culture. Amidst the backdrop of pervasive insecurity, inflation, and pressing social issues in northern Nigeria and the country at large, this theme explores three contexts — psychological, creative, and cultural.
"Mindscapes of the North" invites us to reveal the complex layers of thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences of Arewa. It encourages poets to explore the collective cultural identity shaped by shared beliefs, experiences, and ideologies.
Submission Guidelines
Eligibility:
- Open to poets of Nigerian and African descent.
- Submissions can be in English or Hausa.
- Both emerging and established poets are encouraged to apply.
Submission Details:
- Each poet may submit up to 1 poem.
- Submissions must be original and unpublished. Works that have appeared in personal blogs or small publications are acceptable but must not have been submitted for other prizes.
- Submit your poems in PDF or Word Document format. Each poem should be typed, double-spaced, and include the title (but not the poet’s name to ensure anonymity).
Theme:
- The 2024 theme is Mindscapes of the North. Poems must reflect or engage with the theme in creative and meaningful ways.
Submission Period:
Submissions open on 20th November, 2024 and close on 20th December, 2024. Late entries will not be accepted.
How to Submit:
Submit your work to artsxvibes@gmail.com. Include your name, contact information, and a brief biography (max 100 words) in the body of the email.
Prize and Recognition
Prize: N200,000 (winner takes all)
Shortlisted poets will have their work featured on our platforms.
Judging Process
Submissions will be judged anonymously by a panel of esteemed poets and literary professionals:
- Zaynab Iliyasu Bobi
- Moyosola Olowokure
- Abdul Razaq
Entries will be evaluated based on originality, thematic relevance, creativity, and technical excellence.
The judges’ decisions are final and binding.
Terms and Conditions
- By submitting, the poet agrees that their work is original and not under consideration for any other prize during the submission period.
- Copyright remains with the poet. However, Labari Prize reserves the right to publish winning and shortlisted poems in its official anthology, website, or promotional materials, with proper credit given to the poet.
- Labari Prize is not responsible for plagiarism claims. Any work found to be plagiarized will be disqualified, and prizes will be revoked.
- The Labari Prize may cancel or modify the competition in exceptional circumstances, with notice provided to participants.
