The Akada Children’s Book Festival (ACBF), Nigeria’s premier literary event dedicated exclusively to children, is gearing up for its sixth edition on October 26, 2024, at the UPBEAT Recreation Centre in Lekki, Lagos. This year’s festival, themed “Read Your Way,” aims to promote literacy and foster a reading culture among children aged 13 and below, addressing the critical need for improved literacy rates in Nigeria.
Addressing Literacy Challenges
Recent statistics from UNICEF highlight a concerning reality: 75% of Nigerian children aged 7 to 14 cannot read a simple sentence or solve basic math problems. This alarming figure underscores the importance of initiatives like the ACBF, which seeks to inspire a love of reading and improve literacy outcomes among the nation’s youth.
Mrs. Olubunmi Aboderin Talabi, a renowned author and the festival’s convener, emphasised the festival’s role in showcasing literary works that reflect the diverse experiences of Nigerian children. “Previously, most children’s books available were imported and predominantly featured cultures different from our own,” she noted. “The Akada Children’s Book Festival was born from the need to provide our children with stories that resonate with their own lives.”
Festival Highlights and Activities
The ACBF promises an exciting lineup of activities designed to engage young readers and their families. Highlights for this year’s edition include:
– Author-led Book Readings: Children will have the opportunity to hear stories from their favourite authors.
– Book Chats and Story Time: Interactive sessions will encourage discussions about featured titles and storytelling techniques.
– Writing and Illustration Competitions: Young talents will showcase their creativity and storytelling skills.
– Cultural Activities: A new Yoruba-themed Story Time will introduce children to traditional stories and cultural practices.
– Workshops for Parents and Educators: Insightful sessions will provide guidance on nurturing a love for reading and supporting literacy development at home.
– Creative Competitions: Activities such as a chess tournament, sip and paint sessions, and an art exhibition will allow children to express their creativity in various forms.
Since its inception in 2019, the ACBF has attracted over 8,500 attendees and has donated more than 4,206 books to promote access to literature. The festival has become a vital platform for emerging authors and illustrators, helping to elevate African stories and authors in the literary landscape.
The Akada Children’s Book Festival is more than just a celebration of literature; it is a vital initiative aimed at transforming the reading culture among Nigerian children. By providing engaging, culturally relevant stories and fostering a community of readers, the festival plays a crucial role in addressing the literacy challenges facing the nation. As the 2024 edition approaches, the ACBF continues to inspire hope for a brighter, more literate future for Nigeria’s youth.
By Joseph Johnston
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub
