Akure Hosts Its First-Ever Feast of Books and Culture

The city of Akure witnessed a remarkable literary and cultural gathering on November 30 with the first-ever Akure Feast of Books and Culture.

The event, held at the Akure Tech Hub botanical garden of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), brought together writers, artists, authors, literature enthusiasts, and cultural aficionados in a celebration of storytelling, arts, and heritage. Described by an attendee as “an exceptional art and cultural outing,” the festival successfully merged nature, literature, and the creative arts.

Organized by the Akure Book Club, an extension of P English Literature’s works, the festival was dedicated to promoting literature through activities such as book festivals, author interviews, literary competitions, and writer’s conferences. The event received major sponsorship from P English Literature and Golden Child Promotions Publishing, Durham.

The festival opened with a speech from its founder, Peter Okonkwo, followed by a writing workshop featuring Famous Chukwuemeka and a review of We Will Live Again, the novel selected for the festival. Book launches were a major highlight, featuring local and international authors, including Cyndi Brec, Adekunle-Jayi Mofopefunoluwa, Oyindamola, John ET, N. Viktoria, and Marty M. Aston.

Cyndi Brec, an American romance writer, introduced her upcoming young adult romance series, The Therans: Secret Beneath Scars, with its prequel set to launch in December, followed by Scarred Lies in January 2025. Nigerian author N. Viktoria, based in the UK, presented The Fake Fiancees, part of her Love and Lies series. Marty M. Aston shared his memoir I Am A Man, and Oyindamola introduced Face Me I Face You, among other authors who showcased their works.

Beyond the book launches, the event featured diverse literary and artistic expressions. The children’s festival segment included a reading session, while attendees engaged in games, poetry performances, and an exhibition displaying books and artworks by featured artists Eteng Elvis Samuel, Agboola Toluwalase, and Inioluwa Aderibigbe.

Another significant moment was the stage enactment of The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives by Lola Shoneyin, leaving the audience in awe with its compelling performance. A festival-goer noted that ending with a drama performance was particularly impactful, as drama remains one of the least represented genres in Nigerian literature.

From the exhibitions to the book launches, writing workshops, games, and performances, the event was an undeniable success. Sponsored by P English Literature and Golden Child Promotions Publishing, with partnerships from Open Mics FUTA, Alkebulan, Zepama, and Akure Tech Hub, the festival saw significant contributions from the Akure Book Club team.

Victory Ocheme, the club’s coordinator, played a pivotal role in driving the event forward, alongside team members like Cyndi Uk-Ibiam, drama coordinator Fayemiwo Durotimi, and others.

With over 120 physical attendees and growing international recognition, the Akure Feast of Books and Culture made a lasting impact on the literary scene in Ondo State, setting the stage for future literary celebrations in the region.