ReadingCafé marks a decade of literary impact with ‘New Voices, New Stories’
By Godwin Okondo
A literary initiative, ReadingCafé, founded by writer and educator Lechi Eke, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, marking a decade of nurturing young writers and promoting literary excellence. While reflecting on the journey and remarkable run of events in 10 years, Eke said the idea for ReadingCafé was borne out of her deep love for literature and a sense of divine purpose to inspire literary pursuits in young ones, especially university students who could go on to become notable writers in future.
“What motivates me is the love of literature aside the divine purpose of God for literary activities,” she said. Although based primarily at the University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, the programme is not restricted to the institution. According to Eke, financial limitations have prevented wider expansion though students of other higher institutions are regularly invited to take part in the yearly cultural activities.
“Activities are not limited to UNILAG, but lack of funds constraints us,” she explained, noting that over the past ten years, ReadingCafé has hosted some of Nigeria’s most respected literary figures, including Professors Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Hope Eghagha, and Bose Afolayan, as well as award-winning writers like Jude Idada and Dr. Lola Akande. These facilitators have taught writing techniques and inspired students through their insights. Also, some student participants have gone on to win prestigious literary prizes, while others have launched their own literary ventures, including online magazines and writing businesses.
“One in particular named Osho carted away about three prizes in different genres,” Eke recalled.
Founder of ReadingCafe, Mrs. Lechi Eke
While reflecting on the most memorable moment of the past decade, Eke pointed to the very first edition of ReadingCafé, noting, “It was magic,” and cited the presence of renowned author Prof. Ezeigbo, poet and media personality Wana Wana, and Mr. Nkono O Nkono of Grange Schools as the event’s MC.
Asked to name the most impressive guest writer over the years, Eke was quick to note that each one made a unique impact, adding, “They brought different genres of literature alive, as participants learnt from Prof. Eghagha that a play is not complete until it’s set on stage. Prof. Chris Anyokwu also mentioned that the more local a story, the more globally accepted it becomes.”
Despite its successes, ReadingCafé has faced significant challenges, particularly with funding, with Eke lamenting that “sponsorship is near zero. It’s been like charity work on my part,” noting that aside from UBA Foundation’s READ AFRICA programme, which donates novels, external support has been minimal.
Eke also praised the support of the National Association of Students of English and Literary Studies (NASELS), which has partnered with her organisation, FinishedWork, since 2015. She noted that they help with lots of things. And their presence alone makes the event great. While institutional support from the university has been largely nominal, the Department of English has offered some backing by approving student attendance at the events.
Eke said the impact of ReadingCafe on the literary culture at UNILAG has been significant, saying, “Literary students, fledgling writers and even yours truly have been impacted by the teachings and insights renowned writers have given us during ReadingCafe. Many look forward to it, including me. The event is making all of us better writers as we learn useful skills.” Eke added that she envisions ReadingCafé eventually evolving into a full-fledged Creative Writing School.
As part of activities to celebrate ReadingCafe’s 10th anniversary, the winner of children’s book prize 2025 Olubunmi Familoni and lecturer Dr. Nurayn Fola Alimi alongside Eke will treat students and guests to this year’s anniversary theme ‘New Voices, New Stories’ at Afe Babalola Hall, UNILAG @11.00am.
