The annual Nigeria International Book Fair, known as NIBF, is set to take place from May 8 to 10, 2024. This event will bring together many literary enthusiasts and industry professionals. The Nigerian Book Fair Trust organisers have announced that their main focus this year will be on elementary education, as stated in a recent press release. Yard 158 Event Arena in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos, is set to host the annual book fair this year and various other events like the Tertiary Education Summit.
Also, the International Conference focuses on the theme ‘Universal Basic Education and the Book Ecosystem: Setting the Agenda’, featuring a keynote speech by Prof. Olufemi Victor Adeoluwa, the Vice Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology. Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), will serve as the Chairman and Chief Host for the event. Tahir Mamman, the Education Minister, will grace the conference as a distinguished Special Guest. Meanwhile, Prof. Florence Obi from the University of Calabar will share her expertise as the Keynote Speaker at the Tertiary Education Summit.
Scholars from higher education levels will share insights at the Summit.
Her topic of discussion will focus on finding solutions to the Brain Drain crisis in the country. As the Chief Host, Lilian Salami, Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin and Chair of the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, will welcome guests and attendees. Prof. Jide Owoeye, the founder of Lead City University in Ibadan, will lead the Summit alongside Mrs. Yemi Adamolekun, the Executive Director of the Enough is Enough Project. Various distinguished scholars from different levels of higher Education in Nigeria will also share their insights at the Summit.
Attendees can look forward to engaging in various discussions at the book fair, including a Publishers’ Workshop focused on utilising related rights of books to promote sustainable development. Also, a Booksellers’ Conference will address topics such as succession planning and talent management within intergenerational businesses in Nigeria. A Readers’ Parley will explore ways to nurture a lifelong reading habit among youths, covering experiences, challenges, solutions, and strategies. Authors Groove, a research-driven offering from a leading Nigerian publishing company, will be showcased at the upcoming event. Viewers can watch all the events from the fair on various Social Media platforms in real-time.
NIBF promotes literacy and improves a reading culture nationwide.
In context, the NIBF is an annual gathering dedicated to promoting literacy, improving reading culture, and supporting the local publishing industry in the country. This event serves as a vital platform for authors, publishers, booksellers, and various stakeholders in the book industry to converge, share their works, and interact with the public. By bringing together diverse voices and showcasing a wide range of literary works, the fair plays a crucial role in inspiring a love for reading, celebrating Nigerian literature, and facilitating meaningful dialogues that contribute to the growth and development of the literary landscape across the country.
Their primary objectives revolve around nurturing a passion for reading, championing Nigerian literature, and enhancing accessibility to books and educational materials nationwide. By emphasising these goals, the fair seeks to cultivate a Culture of Literacy and appreciation for local literary works. It also aims to facilitate networking opportunities, promote collaboration, and encourage knowledge sharing among industry professionals, thus improving a vibrant and interconnected community within the Nigerian publishing sector. Through these initiatives, the fair strives to advance literacy, promote cultural heritage, and stimulate intellectual growth across the country.
Related Article: National education data system established – FG
Overall, the support of the Nigerian government towards the NIBF can be instrumental in advancing literacy and promoting the local publishing industry. The government can significantly boost its visibility and impact by providing financial assistance and logistical support and actively endorsing the event through official channels. Also, establishing policies and programs prioritising literacy and education can create a conducive environment for the fair to thrive and further its objectives. Enhancing Infrastructure and resources for the sector can bring growth, innovation, and Sustainability within the industry, benefiting both the book fair and the broader society.