Akada Children’s Book Festival Champions Reading, Creativity & African Pride — Talabi
By DAVID JOHN-FLUKE
CONVENER of the Akada Children’s Book Festival (ACBF), Olubunmi Aboderin Talabi, says the festival aims to nurture a generation of children who read, create, and tell African stories with pride.
Speaking at the 7th edition held at UPBEAT Recreation Centre, Lekki, Lagos, Talabi said the event’s theme, “Book an Adventure,” highlights how reading inspires imagination and discovery.
Over 1,500 participants attended the festival, which featured 34 authors and speakers, 27 books, 14 workshops, 11 storytime sessions, and several book chats and creative activities.
Talabi said ACBF encourages children to see reading as an adventure and storytelling as a tool for self-expression and cultural pride.
The festival also celebrated excellence in children’s literature, with Komtu, the Grumpy Chameleon winning Picture Book of the Year, and The Water School by Ogbu Eme named Early Reader Book of the Year.
Award winner Tayo Oyetayo commended the platform for “recognizing stories that help children see themselves reflected in the pages.”
