Abuja Hosts Inaugural Literature Festival to Promote Culture

The inaugural Abuja Festival of Literature and Ideas (AFLI) commenced in Abuja, organized by the Book Buzz Foundation in collaboration with the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS. Supported by European diplomatic missions, the two-day festival aims to foster cultural exchange and address pressing issues affecting Nigeria and the world.

Ms. Lola Shoneyin, Director of the Book Buzz Foundation, emphasized the need for a world-class literary festival in Abuja, highlighting the city's enthusiastic cultural audience. The festival's logo honors Ladi Kwali, a renowned Nigerian potter, reflecting its ambition to celebrate Nigerian creativity.

The program encompasses a wide range of topics, including social divisions, freedom, artificial intelligence, and the future of cultural expression. Gautier Mignot, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, noted the festival's significance in expanding cultural activities beyond Lagos, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

He commended the contributions of various diplomatic missions and reiterated the EU's commitment to supporting cultural initiatives across Nigeria.