17 Stories Fest 2026 Amplifies Youth Voices Through Poetry, Arts and Education in Lagos
Arts | Literature | Culture Feature
Lagos, June 20, 2026 — The 17th edition of Stories Fest drew students, educators, poets, artists and development advocates to the Alliance Française Mike Adenuga Centre, Ikoyi, for a day-long celebration of creativity and learning.
Held under the theme “Voices of the Future: Securing the Right to Education for Every Nigerian Child,” the festival spotlighted how storytelling, poetry, dance and visual arts can drive conversations on children’s rights and access to quality education.
Jointly organized by Naija Poetry Fest Community, Art and the African Child ATAC, Alliance Française Lagos, the United Nations Information Centre Nigeria and other partners, the event drew strong participation from schools and the creative community.
Godson Osarenren opened the programme, stressing literature and the arts as tools to nurture young voices and inspire social change. ATAC Founder Vincent Odigie reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to education and creativity for African children. The event was anchored by Oluwatomini Bee Cheng Dew, aka Naijanese.
Student performances were a major highlight. Vicmob Schools, Our Lady of Apostles Secondary School, Smart Crest Schools and Granville International School showcased talent and intellectual depth. On stage, Holy Spice and Tonie the Emperor delivered artistic sets, while the Guild of Nigerian Dancers, Lagos Chapter, brought electrifying dance routines. Iwalewa Art Gallery engaged children and adults with interactive visual art.
Organizers called the festival a resounding success and thanked volunteers, schools, performers and partners. Award-winning author Dr. Chigozie Anuli Mbadugha gifted every attendee a copy of her book Beyond The Trial.
As the event closed, participants left with a shared vision: a future where every Nigerian child can access quality education and tell their story. Stories Fest 2026 reaffirmed that empowered youth voices turn creativity into transformation, hope and national development.
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