As the world celebrates World Poetry Day, Convener of the Naija Poetry Fest, Godson Osarenren, has said the idea behind the festival is to increase literary sphere, to make literary works more recognisable, promote literacy and contribute to the well-being of the society and also contribute to the politics of our nation.
According to Osarenren Naija Poetry Fest 2.0, which was in collaboration with Alliance Française with the theme “Poetry in Motion: Wheeling Around the World; aims to propel Nigerian poetry onto the global stage.
Author of the Broken Cross and the Bush Radio, Osarenren said; “the theme is connecting poets all around the world. We have satirical poems to criticise and speak about the ills of the society and eulogies that praise those that are doing well. The event is a celebration of the power of words which transcends boundaries and connect hearts across the globe. Its about peace and inclusion of pets all around the world.”
“We are also giving back to the society, we have a community called the Naija Poetry Fest Community on a WhatsApp forum and we have different poetic programs aligned weekly where poets participate from time to time. We are doing this so that the upcoming poets will get into the writing techniques, see different styles of writing, learn their figures of speech and we bring in notable poets who have done well in their various endeavours ro teach these upcoming poets.”
Dr. Obari Gamba, the 2023 Chinua Achebe’s Literature award winner in his submission said; iys important for us to understand that Poetry has been with us right from time and it has always had an esthetic function, a didactic function and a social function, its been with us right from time. So, it will be a shame for any generation within the polity that does not create poetry or celebrate it. It’s a good thing in this age and time that we have poets in this country who are creating poetry and who are speaking to social issues. Celebrating the day with other poets around the way is another way of preserving the art poetry.
This year’s edition which was held at Alliance Française/Mike Adenuga Center, Ikoyi; boasts a stellar lineup of literary luminaries who engaged in a panel of discussion.
The Laurel Daphine Footwears sponsored vibrant program packed event, was also with poetry competitions, prestigious awards, and captivating musical performances. The poetic competition saw Adeṣewa Alagbala coming in 1st Position, Ojo Anuoluwapo Favour in 2nd position and Onyegbuna Priceless in 3rd Position with cash prizes of about one million naira and other consolation prizes for the participants.
Those who graced the festiival include, Dr. Obari Gomba, who was also the Keynote Speaker, Mr. Sylva Nze Ifedigbo, 2022 Chinua Achebe’s prize winner in 2023, Amarachukwu Chimera, CEO Purple Shelves Books, and Achalugo Chioma Ilozumba
The last edition was held at the University of Lagos, Nigeria.
