The Nigeria International Book Fair (NBIF) was founded in 2001 to promote reading and improve the reading culture among Nigerians. It is organized by the Nigeria Book Fair Trust and sponsored by a number of agencies, organizations, and institutions, including the International Publishers Association, the Nigerian Copyright Commission, the National Library of Nigeria, the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council, the Association of Nigerian Authors, the Nigerian Publishers Association, the Nigerian Library Association, the Chartered Institutes of Professional Printers of Nigeria, the Universal Basic Education Commission, and others.
The first two editions of the fair were held in the Nigerian capital of Abuja, but in 2003, the growing event moved to Lagos, where it has been held ever since. Since its inception, the NIBF has grown to become the most attended and second largest book fair on the African continent, as well as a beacon of literally excellence and cultural celebration of Africa. It brings together book readers, authors, publishers, booksellers, illustrators, and other stakeholders from Nigeria and abroad, creating an unforgettable experience for those who cannot imagine their lives without books.
Every year, the Nigerian International Book Fair showcases more than 100 publishers, mostly from Nigeria and other African countries. It gives publishers a platform to introduce their books to a wide audience of interested readers and make direct sales, while attendees get the opportunity to purchase high-quality book at discounted prices.
Like any other international book fair, the NIBF is not just about showcasing publishers and selling books. It has an exciting program of events for book lovers and industry professionals. Industry events include lectures, seminars, and workshops, whereas events for attendees include meetings with authors, fun activities for children, special workshops for teachers and school principals, and more.
The organizers of the NIBF choose a new theme every year that helps shape the program of the event. Past fairs have focused on promoting peace, women empowerment, youth empowerment, application of new technology, promoting e-books, infrastructural development, networking in the book industry, and other important topics.
One of the best things about the NIBF is free admission. However, if you want to attend Nigeria’s premier literary event, you should register beforehand. All registered attendees receive a personalized badge with a lanyard and a free event brochure.
In 2020, the Nigerian International Book Fair was held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2021 edition had to be postponed to July and had a hybrid format for the same reason. In 2022, the NIBF returned in May in its full glory.
Post: nibfng.org
