The seventh edition of the Akada Children’s Book Festival (ACBF) is scheduled to hold on October 25 at the Upbeat Recreation Centre in Lekki, Lagos. Organizers have confirmed that no fewer than 20 children’s books will be showcased under the theme “Book An Adventure.”
Convener of the festival, Mrs. Olubunmi Talabi, in a statement on Monday, explained that the event was designed to encourage children to see reading as a doorway to endless possibilities. According to her, this year’s edition will build on the festival’s tradition of celebrating literacy, creativity, and cultural identity.
Talabi further emphasized that the mission of the festival is “to promote literacy, amplify diverse cultural voices, and inspire children to see themselves as active participants in shaping their future.” She noted that ACBF continues to create a platform where young readers can explore ideas that nurture both imagination and confidence.
This year’s programme will feature a range of engaging activities, including author-led book readings and story sessions, book exhibitions, and young authors’ spotlight segments. Other highlights include a children’s chess tournament, creative workshops for writers, illustrators, and publishers, as well as interactive sessions for parents and educators.
“This year’s festival celebrates the idea that every book offers a journey—into imagination, history, culture, and self-discovery,” Talabi said, while stressing the importance of exposing children to diverse literary voices at an early age.
Some of the works to be exhibited at the festival include The Invincible Will by Amadi Njoku, Bisola and the Colourful Jars by Lola Odeyale Ayo-Fashida, The Magical Market of Maraba by Solape Azazi, I Wish I Could Fly by Ekanem Selia, The Water School by Ogbu Eme, Tommy Can Win Too by Ayodeji Anifowose, and The Boy Who Grew Backwards by Kanyisola Balogun-Kuku.
Beyond showcasing books, the festival also offers a space for authors, educators, and families to connect. Interested participants have been encouraged to follow @akadafestival on social media platforms for updates and programme details. According to Talabi, “Adventure lies at the heart of every great story, and this year, we want children to discover reading as a doorway to endless possibilities.”
She added: “Through the Akada Children’s Book Festival, we nurture curiosity, celebrate diverse voices, and show families and educators how a single book can spark a lifelong journey. The ACBF reminds us that every child deserves to see themselves in a story, and to know their voice belongs in the world.”
Talabi explained that the word “Akada” is derived from the Yoruba term meaning “lover of literacy and books.” Since its inception in 2019, the festival has welcomed over 10,000 attendees, donated more than 5,000 books, and established itself as a hub for writers, illustrators, and publishers who are committed to advancing children’s literature in Nigeria.
Some of the authors whose works will be featured, including Ogbu Eme and Solape Azazi, expressed optimism that the festival would have a far-reaching impact on early childhood education. They described ACBF as a transformative platform that helps children connect with reading in new and exciting ways.
