2024 Annual Conference: Nigerian Publishers Association Delves into AI's Role in Modern Publishing

 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE: NIGERIAN PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION DELVES INTO AI'S ROLE IN MODERN PUBLISHING

By Wole Adedoyin

The Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) held its 2024 Annual Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) yesterday at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja. The event, which marked the fourth in the series under the leadership of Sir (Chief) Uchenna Cyril Anioke, Ph.D., FPIN, FICMC, brought together key stakeholders in Nigeria’s publishing industry and other distinguished guests.

Delivering the welcome address, Chief Anioke highlighted the progress made by the association since his administration's inauguration on December 4, 2020. Reflecting on previous conferences, he described them as milestones in addressing the challenges of the publishing sector. “Each conference theme was chosen to tackle pressing industry concerns,” he noted, referencing themes from past years that tackled economic sustainability, the impact of digital transformation, and the revitalization of local paper production.

For 2024, the conference theme, “Publishing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the Future of Content Creation, Delivery, and Copyright,” was a timely choice. Chief Anioke emphasized the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in publishing while also acknowledging the challenges it poses. He encouraged participants to engage actively in discussions about adopting AI technology to enhance content creation, improve delivery systems, and protect copyright.

The keynote speaker, Dr. John Asein, the Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), was commended for his expertise in intellectual property and anti-piracy. Chief Anioke expressed enthusiasm for Dr. Asein’s insights, describing him as a “legal luminary and intellectual property icon.” Supporting the discussions were a panel of experts, including Mr. David Oluwagbami, Dr. (Mrs.) Chika Yinka-Banjo, and Engr. Ifeanyi Avajah, who explored the multifaceted implications of AI in the publishing sector.

The conference was chaired by Alhaji Razak Jaiyeola, a renowned chartered accountant and past president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). The Special Guest of Honour, Lagos State Governor, His Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was lauded for his contributions to education in the state, particularly in reducing the number of out-of-school children and promoting quality learning.

During his address, Chief Anioke reiterated the association's longstanding calls for federal government intervention in critical areas affecting the industry. These include involving publishers in curriculum reforms, reviving moribund paper mills, and fostering policies that encourage the production of books in indigenous languages. “The current practice of excluding publishers from curriculum development is unacceptable and amounts to intellectual sabotage,” he asserted.

Chief Anioke also appealed for greater private-sector investment in paper production to reduce reliance on imports, thereby addressing foreign exchange pressures and capital flight. He called on the government to work with the publishing sector to ensure sustainable practices and promote local content production.

The event also served as a platform to celebrate the association's achievements, including the establishment of a permanent secretariat after 55 years. Chief Anioke credited the foresight of his predecessors, particularly the last executive council led by Gbadega Adadepo, for securing the land that made the project possible.

As NPA approaches its 60th anniversary next year, Chief Anioke expressed profound gratitude to the association's founding fathers, past presidents, and members for their unwavering commitment. He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of partners such as the African Publishers Network (APNET) and the International Publishers Association (IPA) in amplifying Nigeria's voice in global publishing.

The association extended special thanks to corporate sponsors, including Clean Life Nigeria Ltd., Nixin Paper Mills and Everest Pulp and Paper Ltd., for their financial support. Chief Anioke also praised the 2024 AGM Planning Committee, led by Vice President Alhaji Dauda Lukman, for organizing a successful event.

The conference concluded with a resounding appreciation for educators, students, and members of the press, whose participation stressed the importance of the publishing industry to national development. Chief Anioke reaffirmed NPA’s commitment to driving growth and innovation in the sector, emphasizing collaboration as the key to future success.

“Long live the NPA! Long live Lagos State! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!” he proclaimed as he brought his address to a close, setting an optimistic tone for the association’s future endeavors.

NPA Explores AI Innovations in Publishing at 2024 Annual Conference

 NIGERIAN PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION EXPLORES AI INNOVATIONS IN PUBLISHING AT 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

By Wole Adedoyin

The Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) held its 2024 Annual Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) yesterday at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja. The event, which marked the fourth in the series under the leadership of Sir (Chief) Uchenna Cyril Anioke, Ph.D., FPIN, FICMC, brought together key stakeholders in Nigeria’s publishing industry and other distinguished guests.

Delivering the welcome address, Chief Anioke highlighted the progress made by the association since his administration's inauguration on December 4, 2020. Reflecting on previous conferences, he described them as milestones in addressing the challenges of the publishing sector. “Each conference theme was chosen to tackle pressing industry concerns,” he noted, referencing themes from past years that tackled economic sustainability, the impact of digital transformation, and the revitalization of local paper production.

For 2024, the conference theme, “Publishing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the Future of Content Creation, Delivery, and Copyright,” was a timely choice. Chief Anioke emphasized the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in publishing while also acknowledging the challenges it poses. He encouraged participants to engage actively in discussions about adopting AI technology to enhance content creation, improve delivery systems, and protect copyright.

The keynote speaker, Dr. John Asein, the Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), was commended for his expertise in intellectual property and anti-piracy. Chief Anioke expressed enthusiasm for Dr. Asein’s insights, describing him as a “legal luminary and intellectual property icon.” Supporting the discussions were a panel of experts, including Mr. David Oluwagbami, Dr. (Mrs.) Chika Yinka-Banjo, and Engr. Ifeanyi Avajah, who explored the multifaceted implications of AI in the publishing sector.

The conference was chaired by Alhaji Razak Jaiyeola, a renowned chartered accountant and past president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). The Special Guest of Honour, Lagos State Governor, His Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was lauded for his contributions to education in the state, particularly in reducing the number of out-of-school children and promoting quality learning.

During his address, Chief Anioke reiterated the association's longstanding calls for federal government intervention in critical areas affecting the industry. These include involving publishers in curriculum reforms, reviving moribund paper mills, and fostering policies that encourage the production of books in indigenous languages. “The current practice of excluding publishers from curriculum development is unacceptable and amounts to intellectual sabotage,” he asserted.

Chief Anioke also appealed for greater private-sector investment in paper production to reduce reliance on imports, thereby addressing foreign exchange pressures and capital flight. He called on the government to work with the publishing sector to ensure sustainable practices and promote local content production.

The event also served as a platform to celebrate the association's achievements, including the establishment of a permanent secretariat after 55 years. Chief Anioke credited the foresight of his predecessors, particularly the last executive council led by Gbadega Adadepo, for securing the land that made the project possible.

As NPA approaches its 60th anniversary next year, Chief Anioke expressed profound gratitude to the association's founding fathers, past presidents, and members for their unwavering commitment. He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of partners such as the African Publishers Network (APNET) and the International Publishers Association (IPA) in amplifying Nigeria's voice in global publishing.

The association extended special thanks to corporate sponsors, including Clean Life Nigeria Ltd., Nixin Paper Mills and Everest Pulp and Paper Ltd., for their financial support. Chief Anioke also praised the 2024 AGM Planning Committee, led by Vice President Alhaji Dauda Lukman, for organizing a successful event.

The conference concluded with a resounding appreciation for educators, students, and members of the press, whose participation stressed the importance of the publishing industry to national development. Chief Anioke reaffirmed NPA’s commitment to driving growth and innovation in the sector, emphasizing collaboration as the key to future success.

“Long live the NPA! Long live Lagos State! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!” he proclaimed as he brought his address to a close, setting an optimistic tone for the association’s future endeavors.

NPA Annual Conference: Sanwo-Olu, Asein, Anioke, Jaiyeola Lead Discussions on AI in Publishing

 

NPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE: SANWO-OLU, ASEIN, ANIOKE, JAIYEOLA LEAD DISCUSSIONS ON AI IN PUBLISHING

By Wole Adedoyin

The Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) has announced its highly anticipated 2024 Annual Conference and General Meeting, set to take place on Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29, 2024, at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. This prestigious event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the rapidly evolving publishing landscape.

Themed "Publishing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the Future of Content Creation, Delivery, and Copyright," the conference will provide a platform to explore the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the publishing industry. With the presence of notable personalities like Lagos State Governor, HE Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Dr. John Asein, Director General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, the event promises to be both insightful and transformative.

Dr. John Asein will deliver the keynote address, setting the tone for the two-day deliberations. His expertise in copyright and intellectual property rights will provide a critical framework for understanding AI's implications for content creation and protection in the digital era.

A distinguished panel discussion will follow the keynote, featuring thought leaders such as Mr. David Oluwagbami, Senior Research Fellow at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (UNILAG); Dr. Chika Yinka-Banjo of UNILAG's Department of Computer Science; and Engr. Ifeanyi Avajah, former Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Lagos State. Together, they will unpack the complexities of integrating AI into publishing practices while safeguarding creative rights.

His Excellency, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, will attend as the Special Guest of Honour. His participation stressed the importance of the publishing industry in fostering socio-economic growth in Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. Chief Uchenna Cyril Anioke, Ph.D., the President/Chairman-in-Council of the NPA, will serve as the Chief Host.

Adding further depth to the event, Alhaji Razak Jaiyeola, FCA, former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and Chief Consultant at A.J. Silicon, will serve as Chairman of the conference. His extensive professional background will enrich discussions and inspire participants.

The conference agenda includes interactive sessions on critical topics such as AI-driven content creation, digital copyright challenges, and strategies for publishers to remain competitive in a tech-driven world. These sessions will equip participants with actionable insights and tools to navigate the changing publishing landscape effectively.

In addition to intellectual discussions, the event offers invaluable networking opportunities for authors, publishers, content creators, and other stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and innovate. It aims to strengthen ties within the publishing community while addressing shared challenges.

The NPA invites publishers, authors, journalists, educators, and anyone with a vested interest in the future of publishing to attend. This event represents a unique opportunity to engage with leading voices in the industry and shape the future of publishing in Nigeria and beyond.

For more information or to register, contact the Nigerian Publishers Association via email at info@nigerianpublishers.com or nigerianpublishers@ymail.com. Additional details are available on the official website at www.nigerianpublishers.com.ng.

The conference begins at 10:00 AM on Thursday, November 28, 2024. Join us at the Lagos Airport Hotel for this groundbreaking exploration of publishing in the age of AI!

For media inquiries, please contact: 08039177779  

 

Adwinsa Publications Hosts ‘The Future of the Children’ to Mark World Children’s Day 2024"t

 *ADWINSA PUBLICATIONS HOSTS "THE FUTURE OF THE CHILDREN" TO MARK WORLD CHILDREN'S DAY 2024* 

Adwinsa Publications, in collaboration with Ibadan Book Club, celebrated World Children’s Day 2024 with a highly engaging and impactful event titled *‘The Future of the Children.’* The program took place at the Oyo State Library Board, opposite Cocoa House, Ibadan, and aimed to inspire and empower children to dream big despite societal challenges.  

The event, which commenced at 10:30 am, witnessed the participation of students from Ibadan Boys High School, St. Paul Anglican School, and Sunshine International High School. Dignitaries in attendance included the State Librarian; Mr. Fakunle Busayo, CEO of Hope Alive Children Consult; and Mr. Olumofe Jacob of Raypower Media. The event was moderated by Mr. Adeleke of Rosy Touch Media and Art.  

In her welcome address, Mrs. Ayobami Odunyemi introduced Adwinsa Publications, highlighting the organization's commitment to promoting education and children’s development across Ghana and Nigeria. She emphasized the need to nurture children’s dreams despite the challenging socio-economic realities.  

During the event, the speakers encouraged children to pursue their dreams with resilience and determination. They also stressed the importance of education and personal discipline in achieving greatness. the speakers highlighted the roles of families, governments, and society in shaping the future of children and emphasized the need for a collective effort to safeguard their well-being.  

A key highlight of the program was a reading session featuring the book *‘Adama.’* Students from Ibadan Boys High School and Sunshine International High School read the first two chapters of the book, followed by an interactive discussion that deepened their understanding of its themes.  

The event also featured various creative performances that showcased the talents of the participating students. Ibadan Boys High School presented a captivating drama, while students from all three schools recited thought-provoking poems. Arike Elewi entertained the audience with an impressive Yoruba *Ewi* rendition.  

Mr. Fakunle Busayo, CEO of Hope Alive Educational Consultancy delivered the keynote lecture, which focused on the urgent need to prioritize children’s rights and well-being. He called for deliberate efforts from stakeholders to address the pressing challenges faced by children, particularly in Nigeria, such as poverty, poor access to education, and the threat of violence.  

World Children’s Day, celebrated annually on November 20, aims to promote children’s rights and raise awareness about their well-being. The 2024 theme, *‘Listen to the Future,’* served as a clarion call for stakeholders to take action to secure the future of children globally.  

During the event, discussions highlighted the plight of children in conflict zones like Gaza, where education and basic amenities are severely disrupted, and in Nigeria, where many children face hunger, abuse, and lack of access to education.  

Speakers emphasized the importance of family upbringing, societal values, and government policies in ensuring a brighter future for children. They urged families to instill discipline and education in their children, while governments were encouraged to create enabling environments for children to thrive and protect their rights through robust policy implementation.  

Mrs. Ayobami Odunyemi presented several titles from Adwinsa Publications, including *‘Kidnappers in Action,’* *‘Break of Dawn,’* and *‘Adama.’* She encouraged schools and dignitaries to purchase the books to support children’s education. Many attendees, including school representatives, expressed interest in acquiring copies for their libraries and classrooms.  

The event concluded with the presentation of gifts to the participating schools, including notepads, Adwinsa Publications titles, and other educational materials. This gesture stressed Adwinsa Publications’ commitment to fostering learning and creativity among children.  

The program ended at 1:30 pm with a closing prayer and a memorable group photograph involving all participants.  

Adwinsa Publications and Ibadan Book Club have once again demonstrated their dedication to supporting children’s growth and development. The event not only celebrated World Children’s Day but also inspired the children to dream and strive for a better future while calling on all stakeholders to play their roles effectively.

LIMAH Promotes Mental Health Awareness Through Arts and Book Donations in Akinyele

 LIMAH PROMOTES MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS THROUGH ARTS AND BOOK DONATIONS IN AKINYELE

By Wole Adedoyin

As part of its initiative to impact lives positively through education and mental health awareness, the Lit Media and Arts Hub (LIMAH) visited a school in Ojoo, Akinyele Local Government Area, Oyo State, on November 22, 2024. 

This visit marked a key step in the organization's ongoing project to support schools across three local government areas of the state. 

The program, which commenced at 12 PM in the school premises, was centered on an arts-aided mental health sensitization campaign aimed at fostering mental wellness among young students.  

The event featured Mrs. Oluwasola Rauf, a renowned social advocate, who delivered a powerful address on dispelling myths and misconceptions about mental health. Her session inspired thought-provoking questions from the students, reflecting their curiosity and eagerness to learn more about mental wellness. Mrs. Rauf emphasized the importance of open communication in tackling fears, anxieties, and worries, stating that mental illnesses thrive in isolation.  

Mrs. Rauf's interaction created a safe space for the students, allowing them to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. She stressed the need for psychological support in schools, highlighting how addressing emotional and mental health challenges can significantly enhance students' overall well-being and academic performance.  

Adding a creative dimension to the program, Mr. Akinola Sesan, an award-winning poet and advocate for bibliotherapy, used literature and poetry to engage the students on mental health issues. He read excerpts from his debut poetry collection, which resonated deeply with the audience. Mr. Sesan believes that literature serves as a powerful tool in mental health practice, offering comfort and perspective to those in distress.  

The program culminated in a collaborative effort to equip the school with resources to sustain the mental health advocacy. LIMAH donated books, writing materials, and mental health literature to the school, ensuring that students and teachers alike have access to tools that promote psychological well-being.  

In addition to the material donations, both Mrs. Rauf and Mr. Sesan left their contact information with the school management to facilitate future engagements. They expressed their commitment to supporting the students and staff with ongoing discussions and mental health programs tailored to their needs.  

The students and staff expressed their heartfelt gratitude to LIMAH for the initiative, describing the program as both impactful and enlightening. The principal of the school commended LIMAH's innovative approach, stating that integrating arts into mental health sensitization is an effective way to address these issues in young minds.  

The visit to Ojoo is part of LIMAH's broader vision to empower communities through education and advocacy. By addressing mental health issues in schools, LIMAH seeks to create a ripple effect that fosters resilience, emotional intelligence, and a mentally healthy population.

LIMAH Unveils Art-Based Mental Health Sensitization Campaign in Oyo State Schools

 LIMAH UNVEILS ART-BASED MENTAL HEALTH SENSITIZATION CAMPAIGN IN OYO STATE SCHOOLS

By Wole Adedoyin

The Lit Media and Arts Hub (LIMAH) has announced the launch of its groundbreaking initiative aimed at promoting mental health awareness among young people in Oyo State. 

This art-aided mental health sensitization program will kick off in three local government areas, beginning with schools in Akinyele Local Government, with plans to expand to other regions. 

The program seeks to raise awareness, debunk myths, and foster healthy discussions around mental health in an effort to address the rising cases of mental health issues exacerbated by socio-political, economic, and psychological pressures in Nigeria.

The initiative was announced in a statement issued by Mr. Akinola Sesan, the award-winning poet, performing playwright, and staunch mental health advocate. Mr. Sesan, who is also the convener of LIMAH, explained that mental health issues are becoming increasingly prevalent due to ignorance, lack of awareness, and limited access to mental health services. "Many Nigerians are losing their minds, livelihoods, and loved ones due to the inability to cope with mounting pressures, leading to dysfunction, trauma, and victimhood," he said.

LIMAH’s school art-aided mental health sensitization program is designed to directly address this pressing issue. Through creative arts, stage productions, and advocacy in schools, LIMAH aims to create a mentally healthy population that can contribute positively to national and global development. The program will include a series of discussions, activities, and artistic presentations aimed at educating students on the importance of mental health and how to navigate the complexities surrounding it.

The central theme of the program is "Thinking Forward: The Myths and Misconceptions of Mental Health." Students will be engaged in an interactive campaign led by Mr. Akinola Sesan and Mrs. Oluwasola Rauf, a renowned social advocate. The campaign will explore common misconceptions about mental health, offering a platform for students to express their concerns and questions in a safe and supportive environment. The program will not only enlighten students but also equip them with tools to manage their mental health and support their peers.

The first phase of the campaign will begin on November 22, 2024, in schools within the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State. The initiative will run throughout the month, with future expansion plans to other local governments in the state. Through this program, LIMAH seeks to break the silence around mental health and create an atmosphere of understanding and empathy among young Nigerians.

A key component of the sensitization program will be the donation of Mr. Akinola Sesan’s critically acclaimed collection, The Grief of Anibala. This collection has been recognized as a valuable contribution to mental health literature, and it will be donated to the libraries of participating schools. This donation is part of LIMAH’s broader effort to provide students with the resources they need to better understand mental health and its impact on society.

The Grief of Anibala is a compelling work that addresses the emotional and psychological struggles people face, making it an ideal tool for students to explore the nuances of mental health. The collection, which blends poetry and narrative, is expected to serve as a catalyst for deep reflection and discussion among students and educators alike.

In addition to the book donation, LIMAH will provide schools with mental health resource materials, including pamphlets, posters, and contact information for local mental health support services. The goal is to ensure that students have access to the knowledge and resources they need to maintain good mental health and seek help when necessary.

The Lit Media and Arts Hub’s initiative reflects the organization's commitment to ensuring that mental health is prioritized in the educational sector. Mr. Sesan emphasized that fostering mental health awareness in schools is a crucial step toward creating a future where young people are empowered to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives.

LIMAH’s school arts-aided mental health sensitization program is expected to be a transformative experience for the students and communities of Oyo State. 

The collaboration between Mr. Sesan, Mrs. Rauf, and local educators is a testimony to the power of creative arts in shaping positive change and advocating for a more mentally healthy society.

This program is part of LIMAH’s long-term vision to use the arts as a vehicle for social change, with mental health being a primary focus. By working with schools, LIMAH hopes to reach young minds at a critical stage in their development and foster a generation that values mental well-being and strives to break free from the stigmas surrounding mental health in Nigeria.