The successful hosting of the second edition of the Imo International Book Fair and Conference has underscored the growing commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s literary ecosystem and advancing educational development through collaborative engagement.
The two-day event, which was held recently at the National Library of Nigeria in Owerri, Imo State, attracted a wide spectrum of stakeholders across the book and education value chain. Participants included authors, publishers, booksellers, teachers, students, civil servants, and policymakers, all converging to explore pathways for reform and growth within the sector.
Organised by Kurious K Agubom Production in collaboration with the National Library of Nigeria, Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), and the Imo State Library Board, the event featured a variety of activities, including book exhibitions, lectures and seminars, book readings, arts presentations, and a guided library tour.
In her opening remarks, Mrs Ifeoma Obi, Head of Branch, National Library of Nigeria, Imo State, commended the organiser, Agubom Kingsley Anosike, for initiating a platform capable of transforming both the educational system and society. She emphasised the need to promote education and called for increased synergy among authors, publishers, and government institutions.
Delivering a keynote lecture, Dr Kennedy Agubom, General Manager of the Imo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA), spoke on “The Role of WASH Education as an Agent of Societal Development.” He highlighted the importance of water, hygiene, and sanitation, stressing that education and books remain vital tools in promoting proper hygiene practices and societal well-being.
Similarly, Rev. Mrs. Ahanonu Lydia Ogechi (PhD) delivered a lecture on “The Role of Education in Societal Development,” underscoring education as a key driver of national transformation and urging greater societal commitment to learning.
A major highlight of the event was the Igbo Language Book Reading Competition organised by the Acting Director/State Librarian, Imo State Library Board, Lolo Lady Onumara Patience Amaka. Christ Foundation Secondary School, World Bank, Owerri, emerged winner. The State Librarian used the opportunity to encourage parents and schools to prioritise indigenous language learning, noting its importance in preserving cultural identity and intellectual development.
Also speaking, Dr Paulina Iwuagwu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Imo State, emphasised the role of both formal and informal education in societal advancement. She called for expanded partnerships to enhance the scope and impact of future editions of the book fair.
The Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, Dr John O. Asein, represented by Mr Martins Oseji, delivered a lecture on the relationship between book fairs and copyright protection, stressing the need for stronger institutional support to promote literary development in Nigeria.
In his closing remarks, the founder of the Imo International Book Fair and Conference, Agubom Kingsley Anosike, reiterated the central role of education in national development. He thanked partners and participants for their support and assured them that subsequent editions would be more impactful.
Participating schools included First Step International Schools, Adorable Stars Montessori Schools, New York Academy, Christ Foundation Primary and Secondary School, Claret Academy, and New Day Primary and Secondary School.
The event’s success further reinforces the importance of sustained collaboration among stakeholders in building a vibrant literary culture and a more robust educational system in Nigeria.
