Idi Nasiru has won the BBC World Service International Audio Drama Competition, under the English as a Second Language Category with his drama ”Aisha’s Horizon.’

The results which was announced on June 1, 2026, at a special event hosted by Fiona Shaw CBE at the Commonwealth Foundation, London, revealed three winners in three categories. The first category which was English as a First Language was won by Finegan Kruckemeyer for her drama “Here, on a Hill.” Rukshani Weerasooriya Wijemanne, Rushika Weerasooriya Heinle and Rajeev Colton (Sri Lanka) clung the Georgi Markov Award for their drama, “There is Something I am Feeling.”

Idi’s Aisha’s Horizon is the story of a young refugee woman’s perilous journey from northern Nigeria to Europe. After Aisha’s family is killed, she is pulled from the river by her uncle. Now in a refugee camp, she finds herself facing a marriage to a man she does not love. Instead, she decides instead to embark on a dangerous journey with the man she does.

As well as a cash prize, each winner receives the opportunity to turn their drama into a studio production made by the BBC.

This year alone, the competition had received 800 entries from 87 countries across the world. Reacting to this development, Simon Pitts, Commissioning Editor, BBC World Service, said: “Audio drama at the BBC is over 100 years old and is in fantastic health. I’m thrilled with the huge international response and the calibre of entries we have received for this year’s competition. The BBC World Service is proud to support and develop creative talent around the world.”

The BBC World Service International Audio Drama Competition continues to champion powerful storytelling and creative voices from every corner of the world, highlighting the enduring impact of audio drama on global audiences.

Neil Webb, Director Theatre and Dance, British Council, acknowledged how creative ideas shared across national borders enriches the world. He then appreciates those who have taken the bold step to enter to submit to the compilation, irrespective of what the outcome is. He then adds: “I’ve been inspired to see how many writers from all over the world shared their stories with us and I can’t wait to hear our wonderful winners’ collaborations with the BBC World Service. I hope the forthcoming dramas inspire audiences and artists to explore audio drama and see the world in new ways.”