The Ibadan Book Club to Host Free Book Editing Workshop for Writers

In an era where the literary landscape evolves at breakneck speed, the Ibadan Book Club is stepping up to equip writers with essential tools for success. On Saturday, April 4, 2026, the Club will host a free one-day workshop on Book Editing, offering practical training to help writers refine their manuscripts and navigate the competitive publishing industry. The event, set to take place at 12:00 PM in the Board Room of the Oyo State Library Board, opposite the iconic Cocoa House in Dugbe, Ibadan, underscores the Club’s commitment to fostering literary excellence and empowering creatives.

Wole Adedoyin, the workshop’s convener, shared in a press statement that the initiative aligns with the Club’s mission to keep writers relevant in a fast-changing literary world. “The workshop is designed to bridge the gap between creativity and technical proficiency,” he said. “It’s about giving writers the tools they need to elevate their craft and meet the demands of contemporary publishing.”

The curriculum promises to be robust, covering everything from the fundamentals of book editing to the nuanced stages of manuscript refinement. Participants will explore topics such as the role of an editor versus a writer, the stages of editing (from developmental edits to proofreading), and the critical relationship between authors and editors. Sessions will also delve into line editing, copy editing, and the unique approaches required for editing storytelling versus informational texts. The workshop will provide practical tips on avoiding common mistakes and introduce participants to essential tools and resources for editors.

The highlight of the workshop is the Guest Lecturer, Mr. Jide Ogunlana, a veteran in the field of editing and publishing. As the CEO of Lerato Book Publishers and a retired educationist with over three decades of experience, Ogunlana brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Having taught literature and English from primary schools to universities across three countries, including the National University of Lesotho, Ogunlana has a storied career in shaping narratives. His work spans the development of English language textbooks for schools and the editing of over 60 AI-human collaborative stories, making him a leading voice in the intersection of traditional and modern editing techniques.

The Ibadan Book Club’s reputation as a hub for literary development is well-earned. Through its Ibadan Writers’ Studio, the Club has hosted workshops on a variety of topics, including copyright law, drama writing, book production, and even artificial intelligence in storytelling. These sessions have consistently drawn participants from across Nigeria, cementing the Club’s status as a cornerstone of the country’s literary ecosystem.

This upcoming workshop is no exception, designed to benefit both aspiring editors and writers seeking to polish their work. By offering the training free of charge, the Club ensures that economic barriers do not hinder access to knowledge. Interested participants are encouraged to secure a spot by sending their name, age, location, and phone number via SMS or WhatsApp to 08072673852.

The workshop also reflects the Club’s collaborative ethos. Special acknowledgment was given to Dr. Awele Ilusanmi (FANA), President of the Literary Authors Cooperative Multipurpose Society of Nigeria and Founder of Book Marketing Class Africa. Her monthly support, according to Adedoyin, has been instrumental in sustaining the Club’s literary initiatives.

With its thoughtful programming and dedication to inclusivity, the Ibadan Book Club continues to set a high standard for literary engagement in Nigeria. The upcoming Book Editing Workshop is yet another stride in its mission to empower writers and editors, ensuring that the next generation of storytellers is equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving world of words.