It’s cultural affirmation – children won’t imagine themselves into a story — the stories already belong to them, says Adedapo

The Managing Director/CEO, Accessible Publishers Ltd, Mr. Gbadega Adedapo, spoke with OLUFEMI TIMOTHY OGUNYEJO shortly after the official flag-off of Nigeria Literacy Book Adaptation Project that will have children’s books translated from English to Yoruba, Igbo Hausa to encourage literacy in mother tongues. It’s a collaborative effort with Kenya-based organisation, Room to Read. The Kenya team was in Ibadan for a workshop where scholars, translators and language experts were introduced to the technical aspects of translation to help the adaptation process

Today marks the official flag-off of Nigeria Literacy Book Adaptation Project. What does this moment represent for you and Accessible Publishers?

THANK you. This isn’t just a programme launch — it’s the ignition of a movement. One that holds the power to reshape Nigeria’s educational landscape, revive our rich linguistic heritage, and reignite the joy of reading in the hearts of our children. It’s a call to action, to inclusion, to legacy-building — and we’re honoured to be part of it.

You received the Room to Read team from Kenya warmly to Ibadan. Why is Ibadan significant to this project?

Ibadan is much more than a city — it’s the intellectual capital of Nigeria. It’s home to the University of Ibadan, the first in sub-Saharan Africa, and the cradle of giants like Professor Wole Soyinka. We have landmarks like Cocoa House, Liberty Stadium, and the first indigenous TV station. Culturally and academically, this city breathes knowledge — so it’s only fitting that a major literacy revolution begins here.

Why is this partnership with Room to Read such a meaningful alignment for Accessible Publishers?

Room to Read shares a vision that deeply resonates with ours: a world where every child, regardless of circumstance, can access quality education. Their emphasis on literacy in local languages and their commitment to gender equity aligns perfectly with what we’ve championed for over two decades. It’s a partnership written in purpose and bound by vision.

Can you tell us more about Accessible Publishers’ journey and readiness for this kind of initiative?

For over 20 years, we’ve pursued a singular mission: to make quality education accessible and affordable to every Nigerian child, regardless of background. Our work spans traditional and digital publishing, harnessing cutting-edge technology alongside grassroots insight. We’re proud to be among the top three global publishers recognized for accessibility by WIPO and the World Blind Union — the only African publisher ever to receive that honour. That recognition reflects our commitment to inclusivity across all formats and demographics.

What excites you most about the Nigeria Literacy Book Adaptation Project?

The fact that children will soon read books in Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo that reflect their realities — their names, their foods, their festivals, their folktales. This isn’t just translation; it’s cultural affirmation. It means children won’t have to imagine themselves into a story — the stories will already belong to them. That’s powerful. That’s transformative.

MD/CEO of Accessible Publishers Ltd, Mr. Gbadega Adedapo

Room to Read is known for a gender-sensitive approach. What’s your view on that dimension of the project?

I find it deeply inspiring. The mantra “creating a world free from illiteracy and gender inequality” isn’t just words — it’s visible in the way Room to Read designs its programmes. When you place a book in a girl’s hand, you place possibility in her grasp. This project ensures girls aren’t background characters — they are leaders, thinkers, and change agents in the pages of our books.

There are professionals selected for this adaptation. Can you speak to their qualifications, expertise, preparedness?

Absolutely. The translators, editors, and language experts involved are seasoned scholars, revered academics, and experienced classroom practitioners. They’re not only proficient in the language — they live it, breathe it, teach it. They understand how to craft content that’s developmentally appropriate while staying rooted in cultural authenticity. The result will be books that are both educationally and emotionally resonant.

How do you view the role of government and educational institutions in this initiative?

Their support is crucial. We’re grateful for the presence of officials from NERDC, UBEC, SUBEBs, and various state ministries of education at today’s event. Their endorsement validates the importance of this work and helps ensure its integration into formal education systems. This can’t just be a publishing effort — it must be a national literacy movement.

What role will community stakeholders and influencers play in the project?

They are the bridge between vision and execution. Thought leaders, educators, community influencers — they carry these books into classrooms, homes, and hearts. We look forward to deep engagement with these stakeholders to ensure that no child is left behind in this literacy revolution.

You ended your remarks with a powerful quote: ‘Literacy is not a luxury, it is a lifeline.’ Could you expand on that?

Certainly. Literacy isn’t just about reading words — it’s about unlocking opportunity, self-worth, and agency. Every child who gains the power to read gains the power to dream, decide, and determine their destiny. In that sense, literacy is a ladder — from poverty to purpose, from isolation to inclusion. And every page we print is one more step upward.

Finally, what would you like to say to everyone who made today possible?

I say thank you — for believing in the transformative power of books. To Room to Read for your bold vision; to the government for your support, to our translators and educators for your wisdom, and to every parent, teacher, and child who will turn these pages — you are part of history. Together, we are changing the story of literacy in Nigeria.

Let’s turn these pages — and change lives!