By Ayo Onikoyi

The Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council has recommended Soul and Spirit Poetry of the Heart Plus More, a collection by Joe Blaise Nnaemeka Akanazu, for general readership following its official assessment.

In a letter conveying the report, the Executive Secretary of NERDC, Prof. Salisu Shehu, stated that the book was found useful and suitable for a broad audience.

According to the assessors, the publication met required standards in presentation and production, with its title, cover design, illustrations, colour usage, font size and paper quality rated appropriate. The content, language, style and overall format were also adjudged satisfactory.

The poetry collection, which features motivational and inspirational themes, was published by Easy Brain College Publisher and unveiled on January 8, 2025, in Owerri, Imo State. Since its release, it has attracted positive reviews and has been adopted by several schools for use during morning devotions and assemblies.

Earlier, the Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education approved the book for use in junior secondary schools across the state, a development the author described as encouraging for both students and educators.

He noted that the collection was designed to promote moral instruction and literary engagement, particularly through poetry recitation and presentation in school settings.

The book has also received endorsement from the Delta State Catholic Education Commission for use in Catholic schools, citing its moral and spiritual value for young learners.

Reviewing the work, former Imo State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Johncliff Nwadike, described it as “a book of life” and advocated its wider adoption. Similarly, former Commissioner for Culture and Traditional Affairs in Imo State, Chief Louis Duru, said the book enhances creativity and self-expression among students.

Other reviewers, including Chief Lady Ogechi Ibeagi and author Daniel Akindutire, commended the work for its depth, moral insight and role in reviving reading culture among young people.

Since the book’s publication, Akanazu has received two awards recognising his contributions to literature and youth development. Through school-based poetry competitions and related initiatives, he continues to promote reading culture and creative expression among students in Nigeria and beyond.