Nigeria's Tope Folarin wins Caine writing prize

Tope Folarin

US based Nigerian writer Tope Folarin has been announced as the winner of this year's 'Caine Prize for African Writing' - a prize which has been described as Africa's leading literary award.

Folarin was among the five writers shortlisted for the prize regarded as Africa’s most prestigious award. He received a $15,000 prize for his short story, Miracle, set in a Nigerian church in the US city of Texas.

On his twitter handle, @topefolarin, he said "What an unbelievable night. I'm still floating. I'm so thankful to everyone who's sending love my way. Much appreciated #blessed #caineprize"

Three other Nigerians were short-listed – Elnathan John for Bayan Layi, Abubakar Adam Ibrahim for The Whispering Trees and Chinelo Okparanta for America.