The Book Buzz Foundation and the European Union are shaping the future of Nigerian children’s literature through a nationwide creative development program.
Nigeria’s children’s publishing scene is entering a new, exciting era. The Book Buzz Foundation, in partnership with the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, has launched the Nigeria Picture Book Project (NPBP), an ambitious plan to produce 100 quality children’s picture books by 2027.
Unveiled at The Ouida Place in Ikeja, Lagos, the initiative is designed to transform how Nigerian children experience stories. With colorful illustrations, local settings, and characters that look and sound like the readers themselves, the project aims to nurture cultural pride while boosting literacy and imagination among young Nigerians.
According to Lola Shoneyin, founder of the Book Buzz Foundation, the mission is simple but powerful: “Every Nigerian child deserves to see themselves in a book.” For years, many imported storybooks have dominated classroom shelves, often missing the language, values, and imagery familiar to African children. The Picture Book Project changes that narrative.
Training the Next Generation of Storytellers
Beyond publishing, the initiative focuses on capacity building, developing writers, illustrators, and editors from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Through workshops and online mentorship programs, young creatives aged 21 to 30 are being equipped with skills to create world-class picture books.
So far, 11 titles have already been produced under the program, showcasing diverse stories ranging from folktales to modern-day adventures that celebrate kindness, family, courage, and identity.
Participants are learning about the entire production process, from storytelling techniques and art direction to layout design and publishing economics. The project also includes partnerships with local printers and educational bodies to ensure these books reach schools, libraries, and homes nationwide.
Cultural Impact and the Power of Representation
Representation lies at the heart of this movement. When children see characters that share their skin tones, names, foods, and environments, reading becomes personal and empowering. Books stop being distant windows and start becoming mirrors.
The initiative also aligns with broader African publishing goals, to strengthen local storytelling industries and reduce dependence on foreign imports. By creating stories written and illustrated by Nigerians, for Nigerian children, the project amplifies African voices in global publishing.
As one EU representative at the launch noted, “Supporting creative industries is key to unlocking Africa’s future. Stories shape values, and these books will shape generations.”
The Nigeria Picture Book Project is more than a literary effort; it’s a social investment in imagination and identity. As more authors and illustrators find their voices, Nigeria’s next generation of readers will finally find themselves inside the stories they love.
What Nigerian children’s book made you fall in love with reading? Share with Comic Panel in the comments below!