The Heart2World Book Prize

The Heart2World Book Prize is open to Nigerian writers currently residing in Nigeria. There is no age restriction and no minimum publication history — what matters is the quality and originality of the manuscript.

Yes. Individual poems may have been previously published in journals, magazines, or anthologies. However, the collection as a whole must be unpublished — it must not have been released as a complete book before submission.

No. Only one submission per writer is allowed. Please ensure the manuscript you submit is your strongest and most complete work.

No. All submissions are final and cannot be updated, revised, or withdrawn once submitted. Please read all guidelines and review your manuscript carefully before completing the form.

Your manuscript must contain a minimum of 30 poems and a maximum of 35 poems. Each poem must have a title. Submissions outside this range will not be reviewed.

Yes. All manuscripts are reviewed anonymously by a panel of Nigerian poets and editors. Your personal details are separated from the manuscript before it reaches the judges.

The ₦5,000,000 represents the total estimated worth of the publishing and marketing package — including editorial support, book production, printing of 500 paperback copies, an e-book edition, bookstore distribution, marketing campaigns, interviews, reviews, and events. The only direct cash payment to the winner is ₦250,000, paid upfront upon announcement. Royalties of 100% on net sales are paid directly from bookstores and e-book platforms to the author.

The winner earns 100% royalties on net sales revenue directly from bookstores and e-book platforms. Once the initial 500-copy print run is exhausted, the author may choose to continue reprints with Heart2World Publishing at their own expense, under terms to be agreed upon.

No. All submissions must be made directly by the author. We will not accept or acknowledge submissions made through agents or third parties, and all editorial, publishing, and promotional engagement following the prize will also be conducted directly with the author.

Yes. Submissions must be primarily written in English, but references to other languages — including Nigerian languages — are permitted, provided they are accompanied by brief translations or interpretations for clarity. Manuscripts submitted entirely in another language will not be considered.

Our policy is zero tolerance. All submitted work must be entirely original and written by the applicant. Any manuscript found to contain AI-generated or plagiarised content will be immediately disqualified.

Submissions must be made exclusively through the official submission form. We will not accept, acknowledge, or respond to any submissions made via email or any other channel. Access the submission form here →

We welcome sponsors and partners who are committed to supporting literature, the arts, and creative expression in Nigeria. Sponsorship opportunities exist across both the prize and the Heart2World 10th Anniversary Event. Email us directly at H2Wbookprize@gmail.com to discuss how your organisation can get involved.