Convener of the Akada Children’s Book Festival, Mrs Olubunmi Talabi, has said the sixth edition of the festival will focus on promoting children’s literacy in Nigeria.
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Tuesday, Talabi revealed that this year’s festival would be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the UPBEAT Recreation Center in Lekki, Lagos.
According to her, the annual event provides a platform for indigenous authors and encourages engagement with children’s books and literature.
This year’s theme, ‘Read Your Way,’ underscores the importance of fostering literacy and reading culture among children aged 13 and under.
The festival aims to inspire young readers and cultivate a lifelong love of reading through engaging activities and experiences.
Talabi, a renowned author, emphasised the festival’s significance, “The Akada Children’s Book Festival showcases literary works for a diverse audience of children. Historically, most children’s books available were imported and featured cultures different from our own. This exposure could lead children to feel disconnected from their own culture. In response, I began writing books with protagonists who reflect the experiences and environments familiar to our children.
“The festival was born from this initiative and has grown into a platform for showcasing various authors. It’s exciting to see more writers focusing on stories that resonate with our children’s own experiences.”
Commenting on the festival, author of Captain of Aster, Nnenna Ochiche, stated, “The festival serves as a vibrant platform for African authors, offering them a unique opportunity to reach wider audiences and build their readership. Many authors have gained significant recognition through the Akada Children’s Book Festival. The festival not only supports authors but also boosts children’s learning. “Understanding that children learn best through play, the festival creates a safe and engaging environment with relatable characters and interactive sessions. By providing carefully curated content that is both child-friendly and educational, the festival celebrates literature and fosters a love of reading among young readers.”
Author of ‘Iya Alaro Saves The Day,’ Aduke Gomez, added, “You are not born knowing your history; it must be passed down by elders and those who have studied it. Through reading, we learn about the habits and cultures of different places. While it’s valuable to understand other cultures, it’s equally important to appreciate our own heritage. Children’s books are foundational to learning, and platforms like the Akada Children’s Book Festival help nurture a love for reading while showcasing stories that reflect our rich African heritage.”
The 2024 Akada Children’s Book Festival promises a variety of engaging activities, including author-led book readings, book chats, featured story times, book exhibitions, and the announcement of winners from the annual writing and illustration competitions.
A statement by the organisation said, “Attendees can also enjoy a chess tournament, sip-and-paint sessions, an art exhibition, and a spotlight on young authors with readings and Q&A sessions.
“The festival will offer insightful sessions for parents and teachers, as well as professional workshops for writers, illustrators, and publishers. A new addition this year is a Yoruba-themed Story Time, featuring traditional Yoruba stories, storytelling techniques, and cultural activities.”
Also, this year’s festival will showcase 32 original children’s books created by Nigerian authors, both locally and abroad.
Notable titles include Captain of Aster by Nnenna Ochiche; Iya Alaro Saves The Day by Yewande Amusan & Aduke Gomez; Ada and The Emir by Nkechi Anya; An African Christmas with Queenie & King by Olunosen Louisa Ibhaze; Toru and The Mango Seed by Omolara Cookey; Obafemi Alakara and The Bush Babies by Kayode O. Sinmidele Valentine; A School Trip Like No Other by Jacqueline U. Agweh; The Magic Jalabiya by Ayo Oyeku, and Terrified Not by Farida Tukur Bello, among others.
The festival organisers said it had donated more than 4,206 books to date, adding that “Since its inception in 2019, the Akada Children’s Book Festival has drawn over 8,500 attendees, establishing itself as a key event for those passionate about children’s literature and literacy.”