IBBY-Yamada 2025: Nigeria
IBBY Nigeria
Book Storm – Children’s Writers Training Programme
Addressing the critical shortage of high-quality, culturally relevant children’s books in Nigeria, the Book Buzz Foundation implemented the “Book Storm” training programme during the Lagos International Festival of Illustration (LIFI) 2025. Held in Lagos from 18–20 September 2025, this intensive three-day initiative targeted emerging illustrators, writers, and graphic designers to strengthen the local publishing ecosystem. The project aimed to equip professionals with advanced skills in visual storytelling, ensuring the creation of picture books that reflect Nigerian culture while meeting international standards, ultimately benefiting children aged 3–7.
The programme featured nine international tutors from Spain, Latin America, and Slovenia, who guided 39 Nigerian participants (aged 21–40) through a rigorous curriculum. Activities included sessions on influential global illustrators, workshops on new concepts and tools, and hands-on practical exercises where participants created original work. Portfolio clinics and Q&A sessions provided personalised feedback on technique, narrative clarity, and professional presentation. Although originally planned as an extended course, the project successfully adapted to a festival-based intensive format, maximising engagement and allowing for direct mentorship from diverse global experts within a condensed timeframe.
Qualitative outcomes included a marked enhancement in participants’ understanding of visual storytelling and increased confidence in portfolio development. Many attendees revised their illustration concepts during the workshops to incorporate stronger narrative coherence and culturally grounded elements. The project exceeded its participation targets, engaging 39 professionals instead of the planned 15. Sustainability is secured through LIFI’s annual recurrence, which will continue to offer professional development opportunities, and the Book Buzz Foundation’s plan to integrate these insights into future training cycles. This initiative lays a robust foundation for a new generation of Nigerian illustrators capable of producing world-class children’s literature.
