Deadline: April 30, 2026
The NLNG Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts 2026 – Documentary Filmmaking is now open for entries! This year’s edition focuses on documentary filmmaking, celebrating young Nigerian filmmakers who use storytelling to explore and express the theme of “Identity.” The prize aims to spotlight creative excellence, originality, and the power of film to capture the essence of who we are as individuals and as a nation.
About the NLNG Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts 2026
The NLNG Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts 2026 – Documentary Filmmaking is an initiative by the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) to recognise and reward outstanding works in the creative industry. Each year, the prize focuses on a specific category within the arts—this year’s category being documentary filmmaking.
The competition offers a platform for talented young Nigerians to showcase authentic stories that reflect our social, cultural, and personal identities.
Prize Value
The winner of the 2026 edition will receive a cash prize of USD 20,000 (Twenty Thousand US Dollars). This significant reward highlights NLNG’s commitment to nurturing and promoting creativity within Nigeria’s arts and culture space.
Theme: “Identity”
This year’s theme, “Identity,” invites filmmakers to tell stories that delve deep into personal, communal, or national identity. Submissions may explore concepts of heritage, belonging, memory, gender, transformation, or language, among others.
The essence of the theme is to encourage character-driven narratives that genuinely portray who we are — individually and collectively — as Nigerians.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for participation, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a Nigerian citizen aged 18 to 35 years, living in or outside Nigeria.
- Must submit a completed documentary film not exceeding 20 minutes in length.
- The film must have been completed between April 2024 and April 2026.
- The work must be original and authentic – entries using AI-generated imagery or music will be disqualified.
- Each filmmaker is allowed only one entry for the 2026 prize cycle.
- Staff of NLNG, members of the Advisory Board, judges, or their immediate family members are not eligible to participate.
Submission Requirements
Applicants are required to submit the following:
- A completed documentary film (non-fiction).
- A Short Artistic Statement (maximum 250 words) outlining the story, artistic vision, and creative process behind the documentary.
- A copy of the applicant’s Nigerian passport or National Identity Card (NIN).
All entries must adhere strictly to the submission guidelines. Failure to comply may lead to disqualification.
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 1 February 2026
- Application Deadline: 30 April 2026
- Winner Announcement: October 2026 (during the NLNG Grand Award Night in Lagos, Nigeria)
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their entries early to avoid last-minute challenges.
Evaluation and Judging
Entries will be assessed by an independent panel of judges appointed by the NLNG Advisory Board. The judging process will focus on originality, creativity, storytelling technique, and adherence to the theme Identity. Judges will also consider the emotional impact and cultural relevance of each submission.
Why You Should Apply
The NLNG Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts is one of the most prestigious arts awards in Nigeria, providing not only financial rewards but also national recognition and exposure. Winning or even being shortlisted can significantly enhance your visibility as a creative professional in the film industry.
How to Apply
Filmmakers who meet the eligibility criteria and wish to participate in the competition should prepare their submission materials and apply through the designated online platform.
Final Thoughts
The NLNG Nigeria Prize for Creative Arts 2026 – Documentary Filmmaking is a golden opportunity for emerging filmmakers to share powerful, authentic stories that reflect the true Nigerian spirit. Through the lens of Identity, creatives are encouraged to inspire dialogue, preserve culture, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s creative evolution.
If you are passionate about storytelling and eager to make an impact through documentary film, don’t miss this chance to participate in one of Nigeria’s most respected creative competitions.
📌 Read more about the programme here: Read More
✉️ Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
