By Ogidi Chidinma Favour
The Benin Art and Books Festival came to a vibrant close today after three days filled with colour, culture, and creativity. Held from 27 to 29 November, the festival once again proved to be one of Edo State’s most exciting cultural gatherings, bringing together writers, artists, performers, and lovers of storytelling from within the state and the diaspora. This year’s edition continued to uphold the festival’s aim of celebrating Edo heritage while also creating space for modern artistic expression, meaningful conversations, and community building.
Day One, hosted by Favour Osasenaga Obaweki, set a strong and energetic tone for the entire festival. The opening featured captivating performances by the Jaurauli troupe and warm welcome remarks from Creative Director Bunmi Adegbitoyinna. Attendees enjoyed a keynote address, a moving spoken-word performance, and a panel discussion that explored how galleries in Benin can support local creative talent, protect culture, and build bridges to global audiences. The day also offered engaging book chats, including a conversation focused on breaking into the Lagos literary scene and another discussing the emotional journey and pressure of becoming a first-time author. It was a day full of rich dialogue and fresh inspiration.
Day Two, hosted by Favour Osaigbovo, continued the momentum with an even wider range of artistic and intellectual activities. The day began with a testimony cloth display and a book chat, followed by a performance that drew the audience in. The schedule featured multiple panel conversations covering topics such as Baebavie Oboayina’s short stories, the realities of studying and writing abroad, and how personal background shapes creative output. Participants were treated to a film screening and conversation with Ayọ Adaram, along with a discussion on how literary collectives support upcoming writers. There were also powerful sessions on poetry, insecurity, and displacement, as well as a conversation on the persistent gaps in documentation and storytelling within the creative space. Day Two successfully blended art, education, and advocacy, leaving attendees both challenged and inspired.
Day Three brought the festival to its thrilling peak, hosted by Favour Osaigbovo and Favour Osasenaga Obaweki. The final day featured a lively storytelling segment, an energetic Benin dance performance, and a poetry session by Chemistry that sparked excitement in the crowd. One of the highlights was a panel titled Reclaiming Truth and Reviving Heritage Through Storytelling, featuring Iwinosa Oyakhire, who engaged the audience in a thoughtful and spirited conversation about culture and truth. The Star Ensemble Choir delivered a beautiful mixture of songs that lifted the atmosphere, and the day ended with a comedy-drama short that provided laughter and entertainment for everyone present.
The festival officially ended at 5:14 pm with closing remarks from Co-founder Ronnie, who delivered a short but impactful speech. She acknowledged God for the success of the event, thanked all team leads for their hard work, and expressed sincere appreciation to participants, guests, and every creative mind who contributed to bringing the festival to life. Her note of gratitude marked the perfect end to an event that celebrated both tradition and innovation.
As the curtains fell, the venue turned into a hub of excitement once again, with guests networking, sharing conversations, and taking photos and videos to capture the unforgettable moments. The 2025 Benin Art and Books Festival not only showcased talent and culture but also strengthened the bond within the creative community, leaving attendees eagerly looking forward to the next edition.
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