Sande Poetry Prize

The Sande Poetry Prize is an annual literary award of ₦800,000, presented to three outstanding poems written by Nigerian poets.

Launched in 2025, the Prize is founded by Osadolor Osayande, Itohan Osayande (co-founder), Eseosa Osayande (co-founder), Ameze Osayande (co-founder), and Eghosa Osayande (co-founder)—siblings from a family deeply rooted in Nigeria’s literary storytelling traditions. The name Sande is a shortened form of their shared surname, Osayande, and symbolises their collective vision for elevating Nigerian poetry.

The Prize seeks to celebrate excellence in contemporary Nigerian poetry and provide both financial and creative support to poets working within and beyond the country’s borders. It recognises Nigeria as home to some of the most gifted literary voices in Africa—voices that often lack platforms for exposure and meaningful funding opportunities.

Osadolor Osayande, the founder, is a Nigerian poet and storyteller and the author of two poetry collections. He has been longlisted for the Babishai Niwe Poetry Prize, awarded the Brigitte Poirson Poetry Prize, and shortlisted for the Albert Jungers Poetry Prize. His work explores themes of faith, family, intimacy, and cultural identity.