As a first-time author in Nigeria, it is usually quite stressful to pick from all the publishing companies in Nigeria. The Nigerian Publishers Association has over 1000 publishers as members of the body. So as someone looking to get a manuscript published, it is important that you know the top book publishers in Nigeria to avoid falling for scams.
The head offices of most of these publishers are located in either Lagos or Abuja, but some of the biggest ones also have their offices in different states and other major cities. For accessibility, they can be easily reached through traditional mail or calls for queries as well.
So how do you know the right one to pick?
Here is a quick introduction to some of the best book publishers in Nigeria:
List of Top Publishing Companies in Nigeria
#1. Cassava Republic Press
Cassava Republic Press is a leading African publication company established in Nigeria in 2006, headed by Bibi Bakre-Yusuf. The press is dedicated to making literature cheap, nurturing local talent, and raising the voices of African writers who are often observed only in Europe and America.
Their mission is to change the way we all think about African writing by creating a diverse body of work that connects writers at different times and spaces. Recognized as a central force in a vibrant literary movement, Cassava Republic Press has played an important role in the success of Nigerian and other African writers at both the local and international levels.
#2. Evans Brothers (Nigeria Publishers) Limited
Evans Brothers is a well-known and established educational publisher in Nigeria, known for producing quality textbooks and learning materials since the 1960s. Their books cover core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science, and are used widely across schools all over the nation. They also offer revision guides, storybooks, and teacher’s manuals, all customised for the Nigerian curriculum. They have earned a solid reputation by educators in the country and they continue to play a key role in supporting academic excellence in both public and private schools.
#3. Kachifo Limited
Kachifo Limited is an independent publishing house based in Lagos, Nigeria, and founded in 2004 by Muhtar Bakare. The company operates under several imprints, including Farafina Books, Farafina Educational, and Prestige Books. From 2004 to 2009, Kachifo also published the influential Farafina Magazine.
Kachifo has played a significant role in postcolonial literature, helping to establish the foundations of a pan-African literary network alongside Cassava Republic Press and Nairobi-based Kwani Trust. The publishing house has been instrumental in launching the careers of several Nigerian authors who have gone on to achieve renowned international acclaim, including Oyinkan Braithwaite, Petina Gappah, and Bisi Adjapon.
#4. Ouida Books
Founded by award-winning Nigerian author Lola Shoneyin, Ouida Books is known for publishing daring, unique voices in African literature. They publish fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. Their bookstore is located in Lagos and it serves as a cultural hub that hosts readings, book launches, and literary events. Ouida is the official Nigerian publisher of works by authors like Bernardine Evaristo, Oyinkan Braithwaite, and Leila Aboulela.
#5. University Press plc
University Press plc (UPPLC) is Nigeria’s largest indigenous book publisher. Originally established in 1949 as the Nigerian branch of the British Oxford University Press, it was known as Oxford University Press (OUP), Nigeria. In 1978, following its incorporation as a public liability company, the organization was renamed University Press Limited.
UPPLC has an extensive reach across Nigeria and the West African sub-region, with area offices, depots, showrooms, and representatives strategically located in major cities and towns nationwide, as well as in Accra, Ghana. The company specializes in printing, publishing, and selling books for both educational purposes and general reading.
#6. Masobe Books
Masobe Books, one of the independent publishing companies in Nigeria, was established in 2018 by Nigerian author, Othuke Ominiabohs. Since its inception, the company has risen to prominence as one of the leading publishers of contemporary African literature.
The name “Masobe” originates from the Isoko language spoken by the Isoko people of Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, meaning “Let Us Read.” The company’s first publication was Othuke Ominiabohs’s debut novel, Odufa. In addition to its primary imprint, Masobe Books also operates under other imprints, including Makere and Oremaha.
#7. Narrative Landscape Press
Narrative Landscape Press, founded in June 2017, is an independent publishing services and logistics firm based in Lagos, Nigeria. The company provides support to self-publishing authors and small independent presses, helping them bring their works to market. Additionally, Narrative Landscape Press manages the publishing imprint for the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library.
#8. Parrésia Publishers
Parrésia, also known as Parrésia Publishers Ltd., is a Nigerian publishing company founded in 2012 by Azafi Omoluabi Ogosi and Richard Ali. The company was established with the mission of selling books to the Nigerian reading audience while promoting the freedom of imagination and a free press. In 2017, The New York Times recognized Parrésia as one of “a handful of influential new publishing houses” that have emerged in Africa over the past decade.
#10. Book Craft Africa
Book Craft Africa is a well-established name in African book publishing, with a legacy spanning over two decades. Founded in Nigeria, the company has published a wide array of titles across diverse subjects, including politics, literature, biography, and history. Among its notable authors is Nobel Laureate Woke Soyinka and the late Chinua Achebe.
#11. Black Tower Publishers
Black Tower Publishers is a publishing firm and a leading name in the industry. Located at Black Tower Publishing House, Plot 1, GRA, Awka, it is regarded as one of the top publishers in Southeastern Nigeria.
#12. Kraft Books
Kraft Books is a well-known name in Nigerian publishing, especially in academic and literary circles. Their mission is to promote African literature, and they publish fiction, poetry, essays, and academic texts.
#13. Lantern Books (Literamed Publications)
Lantern Books is the leading publisher of children’s books in Nigeria. Known for producing high quality storybooks, textbooks, and educational materials, they’ve published thousands of titles and remain a household name in Nigerian homes and schools.
#14. Harmony Publishing
Harmony Publishing is a self-publishing company actively engaged with the self-publishing community. They specialize in helping authors bring their books to the world, turning their ideas into published works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, some of them do. Publishers like Kachifo, Ouida, and Cassava Republic accept unsolicited manuscripts occasionally. Always make sure you check their website for open submission periods and guidelines.
Usually, you need to send a query email or submission that includes a synopsis, sample chapters, and a cover letter. Each publisher has specific guidelines so always check their website before submitting.
Yes. Many Nigerian publishers are open to debut authors, especially if the manuscript is appealing, has a strong storyline and is original.
Response times typically varies, but most publishers reply within 4–12 weeks. Some take longer or may only respond if they’re interested in the work.
Some Nigerian publishers allow dual publishing, especially if international rights are not exclusive. Always clarify this in your contract before signing.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s publishing industry is a dynamic and thriving sector that offers a wealth of opportunities for authors and readers alike.
The 14 publishing companies discussed in this article represent a diverse range of expertise and specializations, catering to various literary interests.
So if you ever have a story to tell the world through a book, make sure to do your due diligence to find the best fit for your niche and values.
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