The buzz is already building up in Lekki as the UPBEAT Recreation Centre prepares to host the 2025 edition of the Akada Children’s Book Festival on October 25.
Known as Nigeria’s first and largest book festival dedicated to children, the event promises to rekindle the magic of storytelling and inspire a new generation of young readers.
Since it began in 2019, the festival has played a major role in reviving the fading reading culture among children across the country. It has become a space where stories meet imagination, and where children are encouraged to dream, learn, and create.
This year’s edition, themed *Book an Adventure*, celebrates the power of stories to transport children into new worlds filled with history, culture, and self-discovery. The organisers say the theme captures the joy of reading and its ability to spark curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Over 20 Nigerian authors will showcase their original children’s books, including *The Invincible Will* by Amadi Njoku, *Bisola and the Colourful Jars* by Lola Odeyale Ayo-Fashida, *The Magical Market of Maraba* by Solape Azazi, and *The Water School* by Ogbu Eme. Each book adds its own flavour to the growing landscape of African storytelling, giving children the joy of seeing characters and experiences that reflect their own lives.
Beyond the books, the festival will host engaging sessions for parents and educators. These sessions will focus on practical ways to nurture a love for reading and inspire creativity in children.
Attendees can also expect a fun-filled day packed with activities such as author meet and greets, storytelling sessions, workshops for parents and children, STEM tent, sensory play area, face painting, chess tournament, sip and paint, and announcements of writing and illustration competition winners.
With this exciting lineup, the Akada Children’s Book Festival 2025 is shaping up to be more than just a celebration of books. It is a celebration of imagination, family, and the boundless potential of African stories.
