The 2025 Boldoz Book and Arts Festival is underway in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, having kicked off on June 20. The two-day literary and cultural event is themed “Breaking Stereotypes”, and it promises to be a celebration of firm storytelling, diversity, and artistic expression.
Bringing together authors, artists, creatives, and literature enthusiasts from across Nigeria, the festival is packed with vibrant programming from author sessions and panel discussions to book chats, signings, and captivating performances.
According to the organisers, this year’s edition is a call to challenge conventional thinking, amplify underrepresented voices, and open up new spaces for stories often left untold. Also, the aim is to promote inclusivity in literature and the arts, while fostering a safe, welcoming space for diverse perspectives.
Enobong Etuk, founder of Boldoz Bookstores and Boldoz Book Club in Uyo, and the driving force behind the festival, describes it as a unique platform for community and creativity.
“You’ll have the time to meet your favourite authors, get your books signed, join the community, even do a book swap,” she says. “This is a celebration of powerful stories.”
Among the featured guests are Adesuwa Nwokedi, author of Adanna; Rosemary Okafor, author of Akwauko; Eyoh Etim, poet and author of Virtual Chants; and Nestor Udoh, author of Civil War Child. Other notable attendees include Anietie Usen, award-winning journalist and author of Village Boy; Hymar Idibie, author of the witty memoir I for don blow but I too dey press phone; and writer Mmadiuto James.
Also expected at the festival is Helen Obareki, coordinator at the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, among other dignitaries.
Boldoz Book Club, which has existed for over a decade, continues to play a key role in growing Uyo’s literary culture. Through this festival, Mrs. Etuk envisions transforming Akwa Ibom into a hub for literary tourism, offering a haven for writers, poets, publishers, and book lovers alike.
As the first event of its kind in the state, the Boldoz Book and Arts Festival is an annual celebration of literature, culture, and creativity. The 2025 edition, with its bold theme, seeks to defy limiting narratives and inspire conversations that affirm our collective humanity.
