The Ibadan Book and Arts Festival (ÌbàFest) is set to kick off its inaugural celebrations with a powerful literary prelude titled Invocations of the Word, featuring Nigeria’s legendary poet and public intellectual, Professor Niyi Osundare.
Born to a humble farming family in Ikere-Ekiti, Nigeria, Osundare’s journey from peasant roots to global literary acclaim embodies resilience and purpose. His poetry—rich in Yoruba oral traditions and deeply humanist in outlook—has earned him numerous awards, including the prestigious Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) in 2014, among countless other local and international honours.
Now Emeritus Distinguished Professor of English at the University of New Orleans, Osundare’s work is internationally recognized for its lyricism, Yoruba oral traditions, and unwavering humanist ethos.
The August 16 event will begin with readings of selected poems by Professor Osundare, followed by an engaging discussion on his literary philosophy, activism, and thoughts on Nigeria’s evolving cultural and political landscapes.
Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with the poet during an audience Q&A session. The conversation will also explore the broader role of African literature in addressing contemporary issues, from climate justice to education and governance.
The Ibadan Book and Arts Festival (ÌbàFest) is a new annual celebration of African literature, art, and cultural heritage. Rooted in Ibadan, home to Nigeria’s first university and a storied history of literary giants—ÌbàFest seeks to reconnect the city’s legacy with contemporary voices across the continent and diaspora.
The festival aims to foster conversations at the intersection of creativity, education, and national development, highlighting the transformative potential of the Creative and Cultural Industries (CCI). This year’s festival will host writers, scholars, artists, and policymakers for two days of immersive discussions, workshops, performances, and exhibitions.
The inaugural edition of the festival is scheduled to be held on Friday and Saturday, October 24–25, 2025.
Scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 2 PM, the event will be held at RovingHeights Bookstore, Prime Mall, Bodija, Ibadan, and is open to the public with free admission.
Admission is free, but seating is limited. Interested participants are encouraged to book their seats here
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
