Nigerian-Irish Author Dexter Loko Wins 2026 Chinua Achebe Prize
Nigerian-Irish author Dexter Loko has emerged winner of the 2026 Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature with his second book, The Bako of Zereshé, securing one of Nigeria’s recognised literary honours.
The award was announced on Saturday, October 31, during the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) 45th Annual International Convention in Abuja.
Loko received a cash prize of ₦1 million, sponsored by United Nigeria Airlines, alongside recognition for his contribution to Nigerian fiction.
The Bako of Zereshé emerged winner from a shortlist of three novels.
The other shortlisted works were:
- No Place Like Home by Henry Akubuiro.
- Chikoba by Onyedikachi Uzozie Nmezi.
The shortlist was announced by the Association of Nigerian Authors in October following the judges’ assessment of the submitted books.
Published in July 2026 by Lagos-based GrandTouch Press, The Bako of Zereshé is a 170,000-word epic fantasy novel blending Nigerian history, culture and mythology with magic, political intrigue and adventure.
The story follows Jeremy Fletcher, a young British journalist assigned to Nigeria to report on the insurgency in the North-East.
However, an unexpected accident changes the direction of his assignment when he discovers Zereshé, a fictional secret 37th state of Nigeria where magic is openly practised and forms part of everyday life.
His discovery leads him into an extraordinary adventure in a world caught up in a struggle between good and evil.
Born in Nigeria and currently based in Ireland, Loko has attributed his interest in storytelling to his upbringing and early exposure to Nigerian stories, cultural traditions and books.
His debut collection of 15 short stories, The Day the Sun Vanished, was independently published in November 2023.
Winning the Chinua Achebe Prize with his second book represents an important milestone in his writing career and brings further attention to his work in contemporary Nigerian literature.
Established in 2021, the Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature recognises excellence and outstanding achievement in Nigerian fiction.
Previous winners include Obinna Ndenwe, Sylva Nze Ifedigbo, Nikė Campbell, Ifeoma Chinwuba and Ndidi Chiazor Enenmor.
Loko’s victory adds his name to the list of writers recognised through the award and highlights the growing range of storytelling styles contributing to Nigerian literature.
His success also draws attention to fantasy fiction as a creative platform for exploring Nigerian history, identity, mythology and cultural imagination.
