The Cross Country Poetry Celebration in Lokoja was a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of poetry, music, and performance.
The event, which was organized by the Association of Nigerian Student Authors (ANSA) and Poets in Nigeria (PIN), in collaboration with the National Association of Young Authors (NAYA) and the Global Association of Yo
ung Authors (GAYA), was a testament to the power of words and the creative spirit of Nigeria’s youth.
The celebration, held Saturday October 26th 2024, at Faculty of Art,cFederal University Lokoja (FUL), and proudly sponsored by PENKUP International, brought together a diverse group of poets, writers, and performers.
The air was electric with anticipation as the audience eagerly awaited the literary feast that was to unfold.
Maymunah Kadiri, the National President of ANSA, delivered a captivating speech that set the tone for the event.
She emphasized ANSA’s mission to empower young writers and poets, and highlighted the significant role of PENKUP International in supporting literary initiatives in Nigeria.
Kadiri’s passionate words resonated with the audience, inspiring them to embrace their own creative potential.
Following her speech, Kadiri engaged in a lively Q&A session, addressing questions about the future of Nigerian literature, the challenges faced by young writers, and the importance of international collaboration.
Her insightful responses provided valuable guidance and encouragement to aspiring writers.
“The Cross Country Poetry Celebration was an unforgettable experience,” shared Maymunah Kadiri, the National President of ANSA.
“It was truly inspiring to see so many talented young poets come together to share their work and celebrate their passion for writing. I am incredibly proud of the work that ANSA and our partners have done to create this platform for young writers.
“I believe that events like these are essential for fostering a vibrant literary culture in Nigeria and empowering the next generation of writers.”
The heart of the event was the poetry performances, which showcased the incredible talent of ANSA members and other young poets.
The stage came alive with a kaleidoscope of emotions, as poets recited their work with passion and conviction. From poignant love poems to thought-provoking social commentary, the performances captivated the audience and left a lasting impression.
In addition to the poetry recitals, the event featured a variety of cultural performances, including traditional dances, energetic music, and captivating spoken word acts.
These performances added a vibrant and dynamic dimension to the celebration, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.
The Cross Country Poetry Celebration was more than just a literary event; it was a celebration of youth, creativity, and the power of the written word.
It was a platform for young poets to connect with their peers, share their work, and inspire one another. The event also highlighted the importance of international collaboration and the global impact of Nigerian literature.
As the event drew to a close, the audience left feeling inspired and uplifted. The Cross Country Poetry Celebration was a resounding success, and it is clear that the future of Nigerian literature is bright.