The 7th Akada Children's Book Festival

The Akada Children's Book Festival (ACBF), the first and largest Nigerian book festival dedicated exclusively for children, is set to return to Lagos for its sixth edition on Saturday, October 26, 2024. Scheduled to be held at UPBEAT Recreation Center in Lekki, Lagos, the annual event provides a platform for the work of indigenous authors and encourages widespread engagement in children's books and literature.

This year's theme, "Read Your Way," emphasises the importance of promoting literacy and fostering a reading culture among children aged 13 and below. By providing engaging activities and experiences, the ACBF aims to inspire young readers and encourage lifelong love of reading.

Speaking on the significance of the festival, Mrs. Olubunmi Aboderin Talabi, renowned author and convener of the Akada Children's Book Festival said, "The Akada Children's Book Festival showcases literary works created for a diverse audience of children. Previously, most children's books available were imported and predominantly featured cultures different from our own. This led me to consider that if our kids are only exposed to books set in other cultures, they might start to feel there is something wrong with their own culture and the people who look like them. In response, I began writing books featuring protagonists who look like children in this environment, placing them in adventures and settings similar to those our children experience every day. The Akada Children's Book Festival was born from this initiative and has since grown into a platform for showcasing various authors. I am thrilled to see an increasing number of people writing for children and we love seeing them engage with stories that reflect their own experiences and perspectives".

The 2024 Akada Children's Book Festival promises a diverse range of activities, including author-led book readings, book chats, featured titles story time, book exhibitions, and the announcement of winners from the annual writing and illustration competitions. Attendees can also enjoy a chess tournament, sip and paint sessions, an art exhibition, and a spotlight on young authors featuring readings and Q&A sessions. Insightful sessions will be available for parents and teachers, alongside professional workshops tailored for writers, illustrators, and publishers. New to this year's festival is a Yoruba-Themed Story Time session, featuring traditional Yoruba stories and storytelling techniques.