by Isi Esene

Tope Folarin, a US based Nigerian has won this year’s Caine Prize for African Writing.

Folarin was among the five writers shortlisted for the prize regarded as Africa’s most prestigious award.

The writer received a $15,000 prize for his short story, Miracle, set in a Nigerian church in the US city of Texas.

The judges described it as a “delightful and beautifully paced narrative”.

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

Ms Okparanta was the only female contender.

This is the second consecutive year that a Nigerian has won the prize.

Last year’s winner was Rotimi Babatunde for his story Bombay’s Republic – about Nigerian soldiers who fought in the Burma campaign during World War II.

Folarin tweeted about winning the prize saying it was “an unbelievable night.”

What an unbelievable night. I'm still floating. I'm so thankful to everyone who's sending love my way. Much appreciated #blessed #caineprize

— Tope Folarin (@topefolarin) July 9, 2013

Elnathan John, one of the short-listed writers have also tweeted to congratulate Folarin saying: “A huge congratulations to my friend @topefolarin for winning the @CainePrize. You totally deserve it man! Happy for you!

https://twitter.com/elnathan/status/354415160061988864

We say congratulations to the winner and all other contenders for the prize.