By Ebunoluwa Sessou

The Akada Children’s Book Festival, ACBF, has been named the 2023 Brittle Paper Literary Platform of the Year. This award recognises ACBF’s exceptional contributions to championing children’s literature in Nigeria and fostering a safe and inspiring space for young minds to explore books and ideas.

In a statement, the founder, Olubunmi Aboderin Talabi, disclosed that ACBF has become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s literary landscape, adding that the festival provides a unique platform for children to engage with books, authors and fellow book lovers through interactive workshops, story-telling sessions and vibrant cultural performances.

“We are incredibly honoured to receive this recognition from Brittle Paper. ACBF was born from a deep belief in the transformative power of stories and the importance of nurturing a love of reading in children. This award is a testament to the dedication of our team and the incredible Nigerian authors, artists and educators who make ACBF possible.”

The Brittle Paper Literary Platform of the Year award acknowledges not only ACBF’s commitment to children’s literacy but also its wider impact on the Nigerian literary scene. The festival has played a pivotal role in supporting self-published authors, promoting diverse voices, and fostering a more inclusive literary culture in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the founder and Editor-in- Chief of Brittle Paper Ainehi Edoro, said:  “There is no doubt that ACBF is shifting Nigerian literary culture in ways that speak to the broader growth we are observing in African literature globally.”