To mark World Book and Copyright Day 2026, the Committee for Relevant Art (CORA) and the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) are teaming up for an inspiring literacy session designed to spark a lifelong love for books in young readers.
In a world of digital distractions, the CORA Library & Resource Centre invites the next generation of thinkers to rediscover the pure joy of a good story. This literacy campaign focuses on the “Read for Pleasure” movement, moving beyond textbooks to explore literature that entertains, inspires and transforms.
Jointly organised by the CORA Youth Creative Club (CYCC) and the CORA partner, Events by Nature, led by Ms Lynda Amadi, the event slated for 10am at the Freedom Park, Lagos Island, where the Library is located, is in partnership with the NCC, whose Director General, Dr John Asein will address the theme, emphasising the importance of intellectual property and creative ownership.
Designed as a strictly youths-oriented event that would have in attendance about 100 students drawn from several secondary schools from across Lagos State, it will have the participants partaking in reading and writing workshops, interactive literary activities, as well as mentorship by special guests who are actively engaged in literacy activities.
Two Special Guests of Honour will also feature in the programme. One is Dr. Awele Ilusanmi (aka “Queen of Books”), an award-winning author and President of the Literary Authors Cooperative Society of Nigeria, who will deploy her wealth of experience in book development and literary advocacy to mentor the participants. Joining her is Victoria Nwankpa, whose featured novel The Art of Forgetting You will anchor the day’s reading. The book tells the story of Ezinne Okoro, an artist caught in a web of love, mystery, and hidden truths in Lagos, offering students a compelling exploration of memory, identity, and emotional resilience.
Supported by the management of Freedom Park, CORA aims through the event to inspire a deeper appreciation for reading among young people while providing direct access to authors, stories, and the transformative power of literature.
Every year, on 23 April, UNESCO celebrates World Book and Copyright Day in recognition of the power of books as a bridge between generations and across cultures. It was inaugurated on April 23, 1995, to celebrate authors, promote reading, and protect copyright. Originating from a Spanish tradition, it is held on April 23 to mark the death anniversary of literary giants like Shakespeare and Cervantes. The first global celebration was in 1996
