By ISAAC DANIEL
Internationally acclaimed Nigeria book publishers, Book Buzz Foundation in collaboration with the European Union, EU, has officially pioneered and launched “The Nigeria Picture Book Project”, a first-of-its-kind in the creative industry, with pacesetting capacity-building initiative designed to promote authentic Nigerian storytelling for children.
The launch event, which took place on recently at the publisher’s Ikeja, Lagos headquarters. It brought together stakeholders in literature, education, art, and cultural development to birth and celebrate a new chapter in Nigerian children’s publishing history.
The Book Buzz Foundation led by multiple award winning author and publisher Lola Shoneyin, disclosed that the Nigeria Picture Book Project is aimed at transforming the landscape of children’s literature in Nigeria by bringing together authors, illustrators, and publishers to create high-quality picture books that reflect Nigeria’s diversity, languages, and cultural heritage.
Supported by the European Union, the initiative seeks to: “Empower Nigerian creatives* through mentorship, workshops, and collaborative publishing opportunities- Produce locally inspired picture books, that help Nigerian children see themselves represented, books that foster imagination, empathy, and pride in Nigerian identity.
Build sustainable structures, that strengthen the children’s book ecosystem in Nigeria”, the foundation stated
This partnership according to Book Buzz Foundation, represents a shared commitment to investing in creativity, cultural identity, and education. “It ensures that the next generation of Nigerian children can access stories that celebrate who they are and where they come from”, the foundation explained
The very colourful and historic event was moderated by Ayomide Oshunliyi, and it featured a line up of distinguished speakers and activities which included; introduction by Tobechukwu Anyachebelu; documentary screening on Bookstorm, highlighting the journey and impact of Nigerian illustrators. The inspiring welcome address was delivered by Lola Shoneyin, the founder of Book Buzz Foundation. It was followed by a
goodwill message by Ambassador Gautier Mignot, Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and to the ECOWAS States. The unveiling of The Nigeria Picture Book Project, was jointly conducted by Lola Shoneyin and Ambassador Gautier Mignot. While the vote of thanks eloquently done by the foundation books Editor, Mazeedah Olutosin
As expected the epochal event was graced by distinguished guests and participants in books publishing industry. In attendance were prominent Nigerian children’s book authors such as:
Mazzi Odu, author of “Get Rid of Your Phone, Mummy”; Tonye Faloughi-Ekezie, author of “Ugo and Sim Sim,” “I Don’t Like the Birthday Song,” and “Simsim Goes to the Salon.” Her works have played a key role in raising awareness about autism through inclusive storytelling, ; award winning author and journalist, Henry Akubuiro, among others
The event also welcomed the participants from the Lagos International Festival of Illustrations (LIFI), and celebrated the achievements of Bookstorm illustrators, including, Kayode Onimole, and Chiamaka Chukwu, who were recognized by the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, for their outstanding contributions to illustration and storytelling.
