The Joe Ushie Poetry Prize
joe ushie poetry prize

Rules of the Joe Ushie Poetry Prize

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Thank you for your interest in submitting an entry for the 2027 Joe Ushie Poetry Prize. Please follow the guidelines below:

  • Submit only one poem as an entrant.
  • Ensure your poem does not exceed fifty lines.
  • Write your entry in English, although you may include a few words from other languages as part of poetic license.
  • Attach proof of Nigerian citizenship and a brief bio of about 200 words to your submission.
  • Provide a valid photo ID as proof of citizenship, showing your full name, place, and date of birth. Acceptable IDs include an international passport data page, national ID card, voter’s card, or driver’s license.
  • Type your poem in 12-point Times New Roman font and use single spacing.
  • Submit your entry in DOCX format.
  • Send your entry before the deadline: 11:59 p.m. GMT on 20 April 2026. We will automatically disqualify any late submissions.
  • Submit your entry via the Google Form only. We will not consider entries sent through email or social media chat.
  • Remove all identifying information (such as your name) from the document containing the poem.
  • Keep a copy of your poem, as we will not return submitted entries.
  • Do not enter if you are a family member or close associate of the judges or prize organizers.
  • Avoid any attempt to contact the judges or prize organizers during the prize cycle, as this will lead to automatic disqualification.
  • By entering, you consent to the publication of your longlisted poem in the Joe Ushie Poetry Prize Anthology (Vol. 2, 2027).
  • Follow and like the Joe Ushie Literature Foundation’s social media handles (Facebook, X, and Instagram) throughout the prize cycle to remain eligible.

The Joe Ushie Poetry Prize appreciates your interest and looks forward to reading your entry.

FAQ

  1. What is new about the prize rules for 2027

(a) one entry per poet is now allowed instead of three

(b) instead of emailing your entry, a Google submission form is now designed for easy submission

(c) the adjudication process has changed as per the number of judges which is now three with a chief judge included to make them four in the panel.