Akada Book Festival To Promote Children’s Literacy

The Akada Children’s Book Festival (ACBF) has concluded plans to hold its sixth edition of the book festival to promote children’s literacy in the country.

The Book Festive will be held on October 26, 2024, in Lagos. This annual event provides a platform for the work of indigenous authors and encourages widespread engagement in children’s books and literature.

According to the National Commission for Mass Literacy, Adult and Non-Formal Education, Nigeria faces challenges in promoting reading culture. Data from the commission indicates that four out of ten portions of primary school children struggle with reading comprehension.

A 2023 United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) report further highlights this issue, stating that 75 per cent of Nigerian children aged seven to 14 cannot read simple sentences.

This year’s theme, ‘Read Your Way’, emphasises 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 a lifelong love of reading.

Speaking on the significance of the festival, renowned author and convener of the Akada Children’s Book Festival, Mrs Olubunmi Talabi, said, “The ACBF showcases literary works created for a diverse audience of children. Previously, most children’s books were imported and predominantly featured cultures different from ours.”

She stated, “The 2024 Akada Children’s Book Festival promises a diverse range of activities, including author-led book readings, book chats, featured titles, storytime, book exhibitions, and the announcement of winners from the annual writing and illustration competitions.”

Talabi noted, “This year’s festival will feature 32 original children’s books created by Nigerians at home and abroad.”

Nnenna Ochiche, the author of Captain of Aster, stated, “The festival serves as a vibrant platform for authors of African origin, offering them a unique opportunity to reach wider audiences and build their readership.

“Through the Akada Children’s Book Festival, many authors have gained significant recognition. As the festival continues to support authors, it also strongly emphasises children’s learning. Recognising that children learn best through play, the festival creates a safe and engaging environment filled with relatable characters and engaging sessions.

“By providing carefully curated content that is both child-friendly and educational, the festival not only celebrates literature but also fosters a love of reading among young readers.”

Also, Aduke Gomez, author of Iya Alaro Saves The Day, added that “children’s books are the foundation of learning, and with a platform like ACBF, we can nurture a love for reading while showcasing stories that reflect our rich African heritage.”

In addition to the literary highlights, the festival will feature workshops and sessions led by experts designed to help children develop literacy, problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.

Since its inception in 2019, the AFBF has attracted over 8,500 attendees, becoming a must-attend event for anyone passionate about children’s literature and literacy. The festival organisers have donated more than 4,206 books, further improving book access.