Over 200 Book Lovers Gather for Lagos Book Walk in Festac Town

Festac Town came alive on Thursday as book enthusiasts, students, and stakeholders in the literary ecosystem gathered for the 4th Lagos Book Walk, hosted by the Lagos State Chapter of the Network of Book Clubs and Reading Culture Promoters in Nigeria (NBRP). The event, held in collaboration with key partners, was a celebration of vision, dedication, and the enduring love for books and reading culture.

The walk, which attracted over 200 participants, began at the entrance of Festac Town and ended at the Amuwo Odofin Local Government headquarters, covering a 1.5km stretch. Along the route, participants, including students drawn from across Lagos State and beyond, engaged in vibrant reading promotion activities, showcasing their passion for literature.

Collaborations for a Cause
The success of the event was made possible through the collaboration of several organizations and institutions, including the Nigerian Library Association (NLA), the Committee for Relevant Art (CORA), Laterna Ventures, the Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, and the Lagos State Library Board. Together, these partners reinforced the importance of a collective effort in promoting a reading culture in Nigeria.

Inspiring Words from Leaders
Speaking at the event, NBRP National President, Prof. Oyinkan Chukuka Tasie, addressed the participating students, reminding them of the privilege of being in school amidst the staggering statistic of 20 million out-of-school children in Nigeria. He urged them to seize the opportunity to learn and strive for excellence, emphasizing the undeniable link between reading and success. “Some of the richest and most influential people in the world are those who are well-educated and have cultivated good reading habits,” he affirmed.

The representative of the Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government, who actively participated in the walk, also encouraged participants to fully embrace the opportunities provided by the event. She described the Book Walk as both meaningful and impactful, underscoring the importance of fostering a reading culture among young people.

Other Highlights and Goodwill Messages
Goodwill messages were delivered by prominent figures, including:

• Mrs. Ronke K-Esseka, Lagos State NBRP Coordinator.
• Hajia Aisha Baba, Chair of the NLA Lagos State Chapter.
• Comrade Alfred Odifa, Director of Public Affairs, Lagos State Library Board, representing the Director of the Lagos State Library Board.

The event also featured individual and school presentations centered on promoting reading culture. Participants were treated to book souvenirs distributed by authors and publishers, further enriching the experience and encouraging a deeper connection to literature.

Looking Ahead to 2027
While the 4th Lagos Book Walk was undoubtedly a resounding success, the location for the 5th edition, scheduled for March 2027, is yet to be decided. Expectations are high as stakeholders anticipate another impactful event that will continue to champion the cause of literacy and reading culture in Lagos State.

For now, the 4th Lagos Book Walk stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and the shared belief that books and reading can transform lives.