About Us

Inspiring the Next Generation of Storytellers

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A non-profit, non-political literary organization nurturing creative talent and promoting a vibrant literary culture in Northern Nigeria and beyond.

2020

Cultivating the Literary landscape in
Northern Nigeria
and beyond.

Our Story

Cultivating a Literary Future for Northern Nigeria

NWF was established to champion the development of literature in Northern Nigeria, with a special emphasis on nurturing talent in indigenous languages and empowering young and emerging writers.

Through workshops, residencies, mentorship, and publications, NWF supports both emerging and established writers—particularly those working in indigenous languages and underrepresented communities. We offer unique opportunities for writers and artists through residencies, workshops, and conferences. Our initiatives support individual growth and promote a collective reading culture, enriching communities and laying a strong foundation for literacy and intellectual engagement across the region.

What We Do / Our Focus

NWF Core Initiatives

Northern Narratives Initiative

A transformative mentorship and publishing program empowering emerging writers from Northern Nigeria through personalized guidance and a clear path to publication.

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Ladi Kwali Poetry Prize

A prize established to honor artistic excellence and spotlight the remarkable voices shaping contemporary African poetry.

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NWF Journal

Our literary journal featuring poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction from emerging and established writers in Northern Nigeria and beyond.

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Our Goals

Nurturing Creative Talent and Promoting Literary Excellence

01.
Mentorship & Development

We pair emerging writers with established authors for guidance and support. Our mentorship programs include regular meetings, manuscript reviews, and career development advice, helping writers refine their craft and achieve their literary goals.

02.
Indigenous Language Support

Supporting writers in indigenous languages is one of our core missions. We provide resources, mentorship, and publication opportunities for writers working in Hausa, Fulfulde, Kanuri, Nupe, and other Northern Nigerian languages.

03.
Workshops & Residencies

We offer unique opportunities for writers and artists through residencies, workshops, and conferences. These programs support individual growth and promote a collective reading culture, enriching communities across Northern Nigeria.

04.
Publications & Literary Journal

We publish poetry, short stories, essays, and literary criticism through our NWF Journal and other publications. Our journal showcases voices and visions from Northern Nigeria, documenting stories that matter.

Team

Guided by Passion. United by Purpose.

Behind every initiative is a team of dedicated writers, editors, and literary professionals who are passionate about nurturing creative talent.

Our team is committed to empowering writers, preserving indigenous languages, and building a vibrant literary community in Northern Nigeria. Get to know the people who drive our mission forward.

Zakiyyah Dzukogi

Zakiyyah Dzukogi

Founder

AbdulRazaq Salihu

AbdulRazaq Salihu

Co-Founder

Ibraheem Uthman

Ibraheem Uthman

Communications Lead

Yusrah Dzukogi

Yusrah Dzukogi

Financial Lead

Testimonials

Stories From Our Partners

What Our Community Says
The Northern Narratives Initiative gave me the mentorship and support I needed to refine my craft and publish my first chapbook. Working with an established writer helped me find my voice and navigate the publishing world.
Rukayya Bashir Kofar-Bai
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2025 NNI Mentee, Poetry

Partners

We collaborate with Bakandamiya to support literary initiatives and promote creative excellence.

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Supporters

Including Open Arts World, Chill Subs, Sub Club, and Hill-Top Creative Arts Foundation.

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Community

Community of Literary Magazines and Presses

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GET IN TOUCH

Join Our Literary Community

Connect with us to explore opportunities, share your work, or become part of Northern Nigeria's vibrant literary landscape.