The Book Buzz Foundation, in partnership with the European Union, has launched the Nigeria Picture Book Project to empower 48 young writers and illustrators across the country and strengthen the future of children’s storytelling from a Nigerian perspective.
The initiative, unveiled in Lagos, aims to train participants drawn from the six geopolitical zones and support them in developing picture books that reflect local identities, cultures, values, and realities. The programme targets the production of 20 titles in its first phase, with a long-term goal to publish at least 100 Nigerian children’s books by 2027.
Founder of Book Buzz Foundation, Lola Shoneyin, said the project was created to expand access to homegrown stories for children while creating sustainable opportunities for emerging creatives.
“Our children deserve stories that look and sound like home,” she said. “It is about helping them find their identity and building their imagination.”
European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Gautier Mignon, said the partnership aligns with the EU’s broader cultural and creative sector development interventions.
“Culture connects people. This is not only about art but also about helping creators earn a living,” he stated, adding that the EU remains committed to supporting creative industries under the Global Gateway initiative.
Similarly, Head of Human Development at the EU Delegation, Ms. Leyla Ben Amor Mathieu, stressed the project’s role in strengthening learning outcomes and early literacy, especially for children who lack access to reading materials.
“Reading is the beginning of imagination. We want every child in Nigeria to have access to stories that inspire them to think and dream,” she said.
The launch event featured authors, illustrators, and cultural stakeholders who described the initiative as a major step in reshaping representation, boosting creative industry jobs, and positioning young Nigerian storytellers for global opportunities.
The Nigeria Picture Book Project is positioned to expand the pipeline of African-made content in children’s publishing while empowering young creators with the skills, mentorship, networks, and market access required to thrive in a rapidly growing creative economy.
