World Poetry Day: DSWHUB, RCC, Others Host Inter-School Competition in Ikeja
…As Winners Get Cash Prizes, Books
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that scores of secondary school students across Ikeja local government area in Lagos State were hosted to series of poetry and arts related competitions as part of the annual World Poetry Day 2025 global commemoration in Nigeria on Friday, March 21.
The event was organised by non-profit organisations, including Denny Social Welfare Hub (DSWHUB) and Raising Champions Children (RCC), in collaboration with the Ikeja local government authorities to champion poetry and arts education among secondary school students.
When the dust settled, Jimoh Saeedah from Okeira Junior Grammar School claimed the top prize, leaving with cash, books, and additional items for her school.
Claudius Naomi from Ikeja Senior High School took home the second prize, also winning cash and books. Timileyin Iyanda of Tumi Olugunwa International School and Etim Precious from Onilekere Junior High School shared the third spot, each receiving cash prizes and books for themselves and their schools.
Mrs. Abosede Mary Otukpe, Executive Director of Denny Social Welfare Hub, emphasized the event’s purpose: “We are here to seize the opportunity to draw more attention to poetry, arts, creativity and reading culture in Nigeria.” She called for increased participation from schools in the future, underlining the need to awaken students’ interest in poetry.
“We encourage students to delve into poetry, as it is essential to life. It relaxes like music, conveys culture, and expresses emotions. This initiative aims to enhance the reading culture, arts, and creativity among students. Arts are vital across many areas of life and offer immense opportunities.”
Mrs. Adeola Ibigbami, Director of Raising Champions Children and co-convener of the event, highlighted the collaborative efforts that made the programme possible.
She stated that, “This event will help revive the reading culture and creative arts from obscurity. We urge students to embrace reading and creativity.”
She also advised parents to return to more involved roles in their children’s lives, ensuring they are aware of the media content their kids consume.
“Children are impressionable and need guidance. Parents must create time for their children,” she urged, calling on the government to establish more libraries to foster reading habits.
Overall winner, Miss Saeedah remarked, “Poetry helps me express myself deeply in a way that resonates with others. I have written numerous poems and urge students and authorities to focus more on poetry. Kudos to the organizers!”
Another participant, Miss Claudius, expressed her delight, encouraging fellow students to continue their studies, as poetry serves as a powerful tool for communication and beyond.
A traditional ruler, Prince Adekunle Isiaka Apena, the regent to the stool of Olu of Ikeja, inspired students to strive for greatness, asserting that education unlocks unlimited opportunities.
He challenged them to read diligently and work hard, reminding them that no knowledge is wasted. Sharing his personal journey, he recounted how he became a lawyer with a master’s degree, despite facing setbacks in school, and praised the organisers for exposing children to real-life situations that enhance knowledge and public speaking skills.
He urged the government to make literature a compulsory subject in schools to nurture reading habits.
Hon. Ayotunde Adenuga, leader of the Ikeja local government legislative house, noted that the event revealed a gap in arts education that needs to be addressed.
He reminisced about his love for arts in school and his enduring connection with Mr. Taiwo Onipede, his literature teacher. “Storytelling is a remarkable way to learn anything, and it should be embraced as a teaching method,” he noted.
