When the Akada Children’s Book Festival (ACBF) launched in 2019, its mission was clear: to create a vibrant and inclusive platform promoting children’s literacy and spotlighting Indigenous authors and illustrators.
The festival’s name, “Akada,” translates to “a lover of literacy and books” in Yoruba, reflecting its commitment to celebrating African literature. The festival encourages children aged 13 and under to develop a lifelong love for books and storytelling, providing them with the tools to explore, imagine, and learn.
NIGERIA’S FIRST AND LARGEST CHILDREN’S BOOK FESTIVAL
As Nigeria’s first and largest book festival dedicated exclusively to children, ACBF has become a significant cultural event, welcoming over 8,500 attendees annually. It has donated more than 4,206 books to communities and schools, expanding access to quality reading materials.
THE 2024 EDITION: “READ YOUR WAY”
The 2024 festival returns with its sixth edition on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at UPBEAT Recreation Center in Lekki, Lagos. The theme, “Read Your Way,” emphasizes cultivating a strong reading culture from an early age and encourages children to explore books in their own unique way.
FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES
This year’s festival will feature:
- Author-led book readings and book chats
- Story time and book exhibitions
- Announcement of winners of annual writing and illustration competitions
- Chess tournament, sip n paint, and art exhibition
- Young authors’ spotlight and insightful sessions for parents and teachers
- Professional workshops for writers, illustrators, and publishers
The festival will showcase 32 original titles from local talents, including:
- Captain of Aster by Nnenna Ochiche
- Iya Alaro Saves The Day by Yewande Amusan & Aduke Gomez
- Ada and The Emir by Nkechi Anya
- An African Christmas with Queenie & King by Olunosen Louisa Ibhaze
- Toru and The Mango Seed by Omolara Cookey
- Obafemi Alakara and The Bush Babies by Kayode O. Sinmidele Valentine
- A School Trip Like No Other by Jacqueline U Agweh
- The Magic Jalabiya by Ayo Oyeku
- Terrified Not by Farida Tukur Bello
A special highlight will be the appearance of Atinuke, acclaimed author of the Anna Hibiscus series and Baby Goes to Market. Her presence will inspire both young readers and adults with stories reflecting African children’s everyday experiences.
ENGAGE AND LEARN
ACBF also serves as a platform for educators, parents, and literacy advocates to engage in discussions on supporting children’s literacy development. This year’s workshops will cover not just reading and writing, but essential skills like soft skills, critical thinking, and technical skills.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Join the celebration of African stories and nurture the next generation of readers on October 26, 2024, at UPBEAT Recreation Center in Lekki, Lagos. The event is free for all participants. Register at akadafestival.org/register and follow @akadafestival on social media for updates.