Nigeria International Book Fair 2025 opens May 7
By Olufemi Timothy Ogunyejo
THE 24th edition of the Nigeria International Book Fair (NIBF 2025), organised by the Nigeria Book Fair Trust, is set to commence from May 7 to 9 2025 at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Lagos by Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja. This premier event promises to be a confluence of minds, cultures, and opportunities, underscoring the pivotal role of books and book fairs in the socio-economic development of nations like Nigeria.
The NIBF is more than just a gathering; it is a festival that celebrates the written word and its transformative power. With distinguished guests such as the Honourable Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, and Sen. John Enoh scheduled to play key roles, the fair sets the stage for high-level discussions on the future of education and the book industry in Nigeria. Organised around the theme ‘Local Paper Production: Panacea to Affordable Book Production and Quantitative Education’, the fair aims to address critical issues affecting the book industry, including the high cost of books and teaching materials. Prof. Abiodun Oluwadare of the University of Ibadan will deliver the keynote address and highlight the challenges and opportunities within the book ecosystem. The plenary session will feature experts like MAN’s Director General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir and Chief Executive of Nixin Paper Mill, Rogers Nforgwei, who will discuss strategies to enhance local book production and reduce costs.
Books are not mere vessels of information; they are catalysts for socio-economic development. They empower individuals, promote literacy, and foster a culture of learning. In Nigeria, where over 20 million children are out of school and literacy rates remain below the global average, initiatives like the NIBF are crucial in bridging the educational divide. The NIBF serves as a platform for intellectual exchange, as it brings together educators, policymakers, publishers, writers, and readers to discuss and devise solutions for the challenges facing the book industry. It also offers a marketplace for booksellers and publishers, stimulating economic activity and creating employment opportunities. In 2023, the fair facilitated book sales worth over NGN 200 million (USD$480,000), thus underscoring its economic impact.
Chairman, Nigeria Book Fair Trust Mr. Dare Oluwatuyi
The NIBF is not just a national event; it is a global platform that attracts international attention and investment. By showcasing Nigerian literature and fostering partnerships with global publishers, the fair positions Nigeria as a hub for literary and educational innovation. The presence of international literary agents and scouts at the fair has led to the global recognition of African literature, as seen with the novel Ancestor Stones by Aminatta Forna, which gained international acclaim after being showcased at the Lagos Book Fair.
Furthermore, the fair’s focus on promoting African languages and cultures contributes to the preservation and propagation of indigenous knowledge systems, attracting cultural investments and collaborations from around the world.
As the NIBF 2025 approaches, heartfelt invitation is being extended to exhibitors, publishers, educators, and stakeholders in the book industry to participate in this landmark event. The involvement of all stakeholders will not only showcase a wife variety of products and services to a diverse audience but also contribute to the collective effort of transforming Nigeria’s educational landscape.
By participating in the NIBF, attendees will align themselves with a movement that values knowledge, promotes literacy, and fosters socio-economic development. Together, everyone can set the agenda for a future where books are accessible to all, and education is the cornerstone of national development. Nigeria International Book Fair 2025 is where ideas meet opportunity, as books build nations.
