IRU-DAVIES, D'PENLORD, SHITTU TO HEADLINE MARCH EDITION OF IBADAN BOOK TALK
The Ibadan Book Club (IBC) has announced that its upcoming Ibadan Book Talk will feature three esteemed writers: Iru-Davies Bonaventure Paulson, Ben Thompson D'Penlord, and Tunji Idris Shittu.
This much-anticipated event is scheduled for Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 12:00 PM, and will be held in the Board Room of the Oyo State Library Board, located opposite Cocoa House in Dugbe, Ibadan.
In a press release, IBC Founder Wole Adedoyin expressed enthusiasm about the diverse perspectives these writers bring, highlighting the club's commitment to celebrating literature and fostering creative discussions.
The March edition of Ibadan Book Talk is a collaborative effort between the Ibadan Book Club, the Redeemed Writers Network (REDNET), and Global Word Crafters (GLOWCRAFT). This partnership aims to unite writers, poets, and literary enthusiasts for enriching discussions on writing, performance poetry, and the transformative power of storytelling.
The Ibadan Book Talk, an ongoing initiative by the club, serves as a platform to celebrate literature, encourage creative discussions, and promote the cultural richness of Ibadan through the written and spoken word.
IRU-DAVIES BONAVENTURE PAULSON
Iru-Davies Bonaventure Paulson is a distinguished scholar, educator, and multifaceted professional with a strong academic foundation from St. Andrews College of Education, Oyo-Nigeria, the University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, and Bibliothèques de Science d'Aix Marseille, France. He holds an NCE in Agricultural Science and a first degree, complemented by numerous professional certifications. His diverse expertise spans across various fields, including farming, entrepreneurship, para-military service, teaching, humanitarian work, first aid, and publishing. A passionate literacy and history enthusiast, naturalist, social critic, and advocate for cultural exploration, he has dedicated his life to education, leadership, and community service. His hobbies, which include singing, reading, traveling, gardening, storytelling, and keeping pets, reflect his deep love for nature and knowledge-sharing.
His commitment to humanitarian service and leadership is evident in his extensive roles across various organizations. He has served as the School Unit Coordinator of the Nigerian Red Cross Society at both divisional and state levels, as well as in multiple leadership capacities within the Nigerian Scout Federation and the World Federation of Independent Scouts (WFIS), where he currently holds the position of Africa Regional Secretary. A former unionist and an active contributor to religious and professional bodies, he has been an adviser and welfare officer for the League of Lay Readers in his church, a member of the UNESCO Fans Club in Ouagadougou, and a freelance reporter in Côte d'Ivoire for Radio France Internationale (RFI). Presently, he serves as the President of the Parish Laity Council, a leader in his old students' association, and the National Media Officer of the Association of Independent Publishers, Nigeria (AIPN). Happily married and blessed with children, Iru-Davies Bonaventure Paulson continues to inspire and impact lives through his numerous endeavors.
BEN THOMPSON D'PENLORD
Ben Thompson D'Penlord is a dynamic and multi-talented creative force with a profound impact on the Nigerian entertainment industry. With a background spanning film, television, theater, music, and journalism, he has dedicated his career to storytelling and artistic innovation. His academic journey reflects his commitment to mastering the art of entertainment, having studied at prestigious institutions such as Terra Academy for the Arts, National Broadcasting Academy, Kunle Afolayan Film and Television Academy, De-York Creative Academy, Royal Arts Academy, Music Business Academy for Africa, and Lagos Film School. Through rigorous training in screenwriting, directing, producing, music business, and journalism, D’Penlord has cultivated a rich and versatile skill set that continues to shape his career.
His expertise has propelled him to the forefront of the Nigerian creative scene, making significant contributions across various mediums. As the esteemed host of Eko Screenwriters Connect, he plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and growth within Nigeria’s film industry. Beyond his achievements in media and entertainment, D’Penlord is strategically building Jokwa Entertainment into a powerhouse brand, positioning it as a major player in Nigeria’s creative landscape. With his visionary leadership, diverse talents, and unwavering passion, he remains a driving force in shaping the future of entertainment in Nigeria and beyond.
TUNJI IDRIS SHITTU
Tunji Idris Shittu is a seasoned professional with a robust academic background and diverse expertise across various sectors. He holds a Master's degree in Public Administration (MPA) and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Public Administration (PGDPA) from Nasarawa State University, alongside a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Food Science and Technology from the Federal Polytechnic Bauchi. His commitment to continuous learning is evident through additional training in Project Management, Health Safety and Environment, and affiliations with the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered). Fluent in English, Yoruba, and Hausa, Shittu is also a prolific writer, demonstrating both physical and mental acuity.
Complementing his formal education, Shittu has developed strong interpersonal skills, enabling him to integrate seamlessly into diverse teams. He has participated in various capacity-building initiatives that have enhanced his intrapersonal and interpersonal relations, self-discipline, dedication, commitment, and personal development. These experiences have honed his attention to detail and analytical abilities. With a solid foundation in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Shittu is not only proficient in its applications but also passionate about imparting his knowledge to others. His continuous efforts to enhance his communication and problem-solving skills underscore his dedication to professional excellence and personal growth.