10 Best Book Publishing Companies in Nigeria

16 Oct 2025

Book publishing in Nigeria is an evolving and increasingly dynamic sector. From early roots tied to colonial textbooks and imported religious literature, the industry has grown to include strong indigenous publishers producing local fiction, children’s literature, academic books, memoirs, and general interest titles. Major publishing houses like Spectrum Books, University Press plc, and Evans Brothers have long been leaders in educational and school textbook markets, often working closely with curriculum authorities. Meanwhile, more recent entrants like Masobe Books, Narrative Landscape Press, and Black Tower Publishers are helping to fill gaps in fiction, local storytelling, polished independent publishing services, and better support for new writers. Distribution remains a challenge: getting books into physical bookstores, beyond major urban centers, and reaching international readers require strong logistics and partnerships. Pricing, production costs (paper, printing, shipping), and sometimes weak book culture (readership levels, purchasing power) continue to be constraints. But there are positive trends: better cover and layout design, more attention to marketing and visibility (social media, book fairs), growth of e-book / digital platforms, and more author services (editing, proofreading). Key considerations for authors include choosing publishers with good editorial standards, transparent royalty / rights agreements, proper distribution channels, and appropriate marketing support. Publishers that combine quality, reach, and friendliness to emerging talent are increasingly seen as the most valuable in this ecosystem