The World Poetry Day (WPD), celebrated globally every March 21 as declared by UNESCO in 1999, is set to take a special turn this year. The day, aimed at promoting the reading, writing, publishing, and teaching of poetry throughout the world, will coincide with the 90th birthday anniversary of globally celebrated poet, dramatist, memoirist, essayist, public intellectual, and human and civil rights defender, Professor Wole Soyinka.
Since 2020, Providus Bank has hosted the celebration of the day under its CSR initiative — “Providus Bank Poetry Café”. The event, curated by the Culture Advocates Caucus (CAC) and directed/produced by Jahman Anikulapo, operates under the supervision of Professor Wole Soyinka.
The 2024 edition, officially titled “Providus Bank World Poetry Day Café: An Evening with Wole Soyinka”, is themed “Engaging the Quintessential Poet Wole Soyinka @90.” The event will feature presentations and performances by nine poets – six Nigerians and three from other countries. These poets, selected based on their varied styles and techniques of poetry writing and renditions, will engage in a “conversation with Soyinka” by presenting their chosen poems of Soyinka in their individual dictions and styles.
The event is scheduled to take place on Thursday, March 21, at the Banquet Hall, Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, starting at 4pm prompt. It is strictly by invitation. The celebration will also be accompanied by an exhibition of artworks and photographs on Soyinka’s life and career, as well as a reception.
The poets performing at the event include Uche Uwadinachi, Salamatu Sule, Evelyn Osagie, Akeem Lasisi, Ocho Oko Owi, Ruth Mahogany, Nathalie Handal, Malika Booker, and Ngwatilo Mawiyoo. These poets, both local and international, bring a wealth of experience and unique styles to the stage, promising an unforgettable evening of poetry and celebration.
