Naija Novella Contests (NNC)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When will NNC 2023 be opened for submissions?
Submissions open July 25th, 2023 at 09:00:00 AM. Note that any form submitted before this date won't be accepted.

When will NNC2023 close?
It will close on November 1st, 2023 at 11:59:59 PM. Note that any form submitted after that won't be accepted.

Where do we fill out forms? How will forms be submitted?
This year, forms will be accepted via email only. Please check the FORMS chapter to fill out the forms!

Why can't Otter countries participate in this contest? Why is the contest limited to only Nigerians?
This project was built for Nigerians so unfortunately, we can't embark on projects that support non-Nigerians.

Must my story be in English only?
Yes, at least 90% of your work should be in English.

Must I use one of the story prompts? Can't I just write my story without using the story prompts?
Yes, you must use one of the story prompts. You can't submit a story that isn't based on any of our story prompts.

Where can I find these story prompts?
Please check our STORY PROMPTS chapter to find the prompts.

What if I'm not a Nigerian, can I still use any of the story prompts for my own story?
Yes, you can use any of the prompts but please do not submit it for the contest.

Which genres are accepted for this year's NNC2023?
We accept any genre. Feel free to choose a genre that matches the story prompts you're going for.

What is the word count limit required for the story I want to enter? How many chapters are required for the story?
The word count limit is between 20,000-40,000 (proper word count for novellas). You can write as many chapters as needed for your story.

Why are participants required to have OPay Mobile Accounts? I don't have the app, can I still enter my story for the challenge?
Yes, you can participate in the contest without having the app. But should your story win, you'll be required to have one.

Can we submit an ongoing story?
Yes, you can submit an ongoing story as long as it's above the 2000 word count limit. However, the story submitted must be between 20,000-40,000 word count and marked as completed before or on November 1st, 2023

Can I submit more than one story for the NNC2023?
Yes, you can but note that only one story per author can win.

How will participants be judged? What are the prizes for the winners?
Please check the JUDGING chapter to see how participants will be judged. Please also check the PRIZES chapter to learn more about the prizes.

When will the results be out?
Shortlists will be announced on November 18th, 2023. Winners will be announced on December 2nd, 2023

Will this program be run next year or is it just exclusively for 2023?
If everything goes well, we will definitely continue next year. However, your participation and support will positively help the community.

If you still have questions, kindly drop them here so that we'll answer all your questions.