The Poets in Nigeria (PIN) Initiative will mark its 10th anniversary with a month-long celebration of poetry, creativity, and service beginning October 1, 2025.
This is contained in a press release signed by Eriata Oribhabor, President, and Kolade Olanrewaju Freedom, Executive Secretary, of the Initiative.
Themed “Celebrating the Power of Words, Volunteering and Creativity”, the programme will feature a variety of literary events, including a ₦2 million two-day national poetry slam in three categories—Native Tongues, Naija Pidgin, and English.
The release noted that the keynote speaker for the anniversary is UK-based Nigerian award-winning poet, author, and communications expert, Kukogho Iruesiri Samson.
It also highlighted a three-day national poetry reading that will bring together leading and emerging voices such as Prof. Niyi Osundare, Prof. Akachi Ezigbo, Ogaga Ifowodo, Ahmed Maiwada, Denja Abdullahi, Jumoke Verissimo, Sueddie Agema, and Tade Ipadeola.
Panel discussions on critical topics ranging from “Poetry, Struggles and Social Change” to “Beyond the Manuscript – Towards Equitable Royalties and Copyright Structures in Nigeria’s Ecosystem” are also scheduled.
In addition, the 4th edition of PIN’s annual cross-country poetry celebration will hold under the coordination of Basira Rabi’u Idris.
The anniversary activities, which begin online on October 1 with a performance by US-based Igbo chant performer and storyteller Amarachi Attamah-Ugwu, will climax with the grand finale of the national poetry slam in Ikorodu on October 24 and at Freedom Park, Lagos, on October 25. The closing events will also feature awards and recognitions for deserving Nigerians, foreigners, sponsors, and partners.
Endorsed by eminent patrons including Prince Dr. Yemisi Shyllon and Rev. Christian Anieke, the press release emphasized that the 10th anniversary of PIN will reaffirm the power of poetry in advancing social change, cultural preservation, and youth creativity.
