LRF Participates in the 3rd Lagos Book Walk to Promote Reading Culture

Literary Renaissance Foundation (LRF) participated in the 3rd Lagos Book Walk held in Ikorodu on March 6, 2025, joining educators, students, and book lovers to promote the importance of reading. The event brought together schools and literary organizations, reinforcing the need to make books and literacy a key part of everyday life.

The LRF’s presence at the event reflected its dedication to fostering a reading-conscious society. The foundation’s mission is to reduce the number of out-of-school children in Nigeria and create lifelong learning opportunities. Representing the LRF at the event were Ogundipe Mari, Chioma Oparah, and Julius Topohozin, who actively took part in various activities designed to encourage reading.

The book walk started at 8:15 a.m., with participants setting off from Ile-epo Oba Sabo Ikorodu to Ikorodu Town Hall. Along the way, participants carried banners, chanted literacy-focused slogans, and engaged with the public about the value of reading. The enthusiasm of the participants showed how much interest in books and learning still exists despite today’s digital distractions.

Upon arrival at the Town Hall, the Master of Ceremony briefly narrated the venue’s history before leading a tour. A key highlight was the Hall of Fame, which showcases over 80 distinguished individuals who have contributed to the growth and progress of the Ikorodu community and the CBT centre with over 250 laptops.

The event was officially declared open by Richard Mammah, President of the Network of Book Clubs and Reading Culture Promoters in Nigeria (NBRP), who spoke about the importance of the annual book walk in promoting literacy.

One of the standout moments was a 30-minute personal reading session, where attendees, including LRF representatives, paused to read. To further support this exercise, LRF representatives purchased books at the event. As an organization that advocates for lifelong learning, the LRF believes in leading by example.

There was also a book-reading session, where dignitaries and students took turns reading from Wole Soyinka’s The Lion and the Jewel. Seeing young learners listen attentively as literary figures read aloud reinforced the power of storytelling and its role in shaping minds.

The event was attended by several notable figures, including Mobolaji Olukoya, Vice Chairman of IDRDG; Prince Ogunleye; Aisha Baba, Chairperson of the Nigerian Library Association; and Richard Mammah, President of NBRP.

Their participation emphasized that restoring Nigeria’s reading culture requires the collective effort of individuals, organizations, and institutions. The LRF is honoured to be part of this movement and remains committed to driving literacy initiatives across the country.

As the event was brought to a close, it was clear that every conversation, every book opened, and every child encouraged to read brings Nigeria one step closer to a future where literacy is a priority.

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