The 2026 edition of Akada Children’s Book Festival (ACBF) will take place on Saturday, May 23, at Rugby School Nigeria, Eko Atlantic, Lagos.
A statement from the organisers disclosed that this event, in its eighth year, will offer families a chance to engage their kids in fun, learning, and imagination all in one vibrant space.
The theme is Big Dreams, Brave Stories, and will feature different activities designed to move beyond passive participation, giving children the opportunity to engage actively with stories, explore their creativity, and connect with books in ways that feel natural and exciting.
Some of the rich and engaging line-up of activities designed to immerse children, parents, and educators in an interactive literary experience include author-led book readings, author meet-and-greet sessions, storytime sessions, book chats, book exhibitions and signings, workshops for children, workshops for parents and educators, writing and illustration competition announcements, scrabble and chess tournaments, theme song competition, sip and paint sessions, STEM activities, sensory play experiences, drama, music, and dance performances, and prizes and book giveaways.
The book festival encourages children to embrace courage, creativity, and self-expression. Through stories of adventure, bravery, and self-discovery, kids are inspired to dream boldly, ask questions, and see themselves as active participants in their own journeys.
As a result, some original children’s titles by Nigerian authors have been curated for the event. They include Lumi Drives from London to Lagos by Pelumi Nubi, Sim Sim Goes to the Salon by Tonye Faloughi-Ekezie, Amang Goes to the Village by Namse Udosen, and What Happened on Thursday? A Nigerian Civil War Story by Ayo Oyeku.
These books reflect diverse experiences and cultural contexts, allowing children to see themselves in the stories while exploring new worlds through literature.
