Literal Guide Publishers International, with support from the Development for Underserved Communities (DUC) Foundation, has celebrated young Nigerian writers at the 2026 Literal Guide Book Festival and Prize Giving ceremony held in Idimu, Lagos.
The festival, held on September 25, 2026, brought together secondary school students, educators, literary enthusiasts and other stakeholders to celebrate creativity and encourage young people to pursue writing.
Convened by Michael Mbuko, Chief Executive Officer of Literal Guide Publishers International, the Literal Guide Book Writing Competition 2026 was organised to identify and recognise emerging literary talents among secondary school students while promoting reading and creative writing.
Oguh Makuochukwu of St. Augustine College, Lagos, emerged as the overall winner with The Girl Who Found Her Voice: Cleopatra’s Crown.
Chiemeke Deborah Chiamaka of Cardinal High School, Idimu, Lagos, came second with UNREAD, while Esther Ali of Bolthine International School took third place with The Sanctuary of Pages.
Semilin Adam of DO-ESTDOT International School placed fourth with The Life Story of Elias Adeyemi, while Amoo Moyinoluwa of Morality College emerged fifth with Agony of Silence.
Speaking at the event, Mbuko urged young writers to recognise the potential of their voices and use their creativity constructively.
“Young writers need to wake up, use your words for good, and let no one tell you it’s too early to start shining.”
Mbuko said the festival was designed not only to celebrate literary achievement but also to encourage young Nigerians to view writing as a tool for self-expression, positive change and nation-building.
One of the winners also reflected on the significance of writing and its potential impact on society.
“Words are powerful. I will use mine to build and not for destruction,” said Makuochukwu.
The organisers said the festival provides a platform for young writers to develop their abilities, tell meaningful Nigerian stories and understand that their ideas can contribute to society.
They added that the annual competition would continue to support the development of literary talent among secondary school students and encourage a stronger reading and writing culture.
The 2026 festival concluded with the presentation of prizes to the top five contestants, alongside recognition of the participating schools and other contributors to the competition.
