POETRY ENCLAVE SET TO HOST FIRST NIGERIAN POETRY CONFERENCE IN IBADAN
Poetry Enclave (POEN), Ibadan, a literary organization established to promote the writing, reading, and performance of poetry, has announced plans to host the maiden edition of the Nigerian Poetry Conference (NIPOCON 2026).
The conference, themed “Poetry for Activism and Change,” is scheduled to hold on August 7 and 8, 2026, in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Speaking on the forthcoming conference, the Convener and President of Poetry Enclave (POEN), Ibadan, Ebika Anthony, stated that NIPOCON 2026 is designed to bring together poets, literary enthusiasts, scholars, performers, and advocates of social change from within and outside Oyo State.
According to him, the gathering will provide a platform for meaningful engagement on the role of poetry in shaping society.
Anthony noted that the conference theme reflects the enduring relevance of poetry as a powerful creative tool for advocacy, social consciousness, and transformation. He emphasized that poetry remains one of the most effective artistic mediums for addressing societal challenges, promoting justice, and inspiring positive change.
The two-day conference will feature a rich lineup of activities, including a keynote address, panel discussions on contemporary poetry, poetry readings and performances, poetry vibrations, and networking opportunities aimed at fostering collaboration among poets and literary stakeholders across Nigeria.
NIPOCON 2026 will take place at The Elders' Place, 17 Abinusawa Street, off Idi-Ape–Basorun Road, Ibadan, with renowned literary supporter Dr. David Adewole serving as the Chief Host. The venue is expected to provide an enabling environment for robust intellectual discourse and artistic expression.
Expected to deliver the keynote address is Dr. Akin Tella, a respected Nigerian academic in the Department of English, University of Ibadan. Dr. Tella's expertise spans discourse analysis, pragmatics, stylistics, varieties of English, and English grammar, making him one of the foremost scholars in language and literary studies in Nigeria.
His research contributions have focused extensively on discourse-oriented and stylistic analyses of literary texts, political communication, media narratives, and cultural expressions within the Nigerian context. Organizers believe his keynote presentation will provide valuable insights into the conference theme and stimulate meaningful conversations on the intersection of poetry, activism, and societal development.
The Convener further disclosed that participation in the conference requires a registration fee of Twenty Thousand Naira (₦20,000) per poet. The registration package includes an Ankara shirt and conference bag, conference book and certificate, writing materials, welcome cocktail, lunch, and a closing dinner for participants.
Interested poets and literary enthusiasts are encouraged to register early by contacting the Convener via WhatsApp on 08034822937 or by calling 08122467487. Organizers have assured prospective participants of a rewarding and memorable conference experience that will enrich their literary practice and professional networks.
With preparations in top gear, Poetry Enclave (POEN), Ibadan, is poised to make history with the successful hosting of the First Nigerian Poetry Conference. Supported by Elders' Place, Ibadan; Diamond FM/UI TV; Educare Trust Youth Centre, Ibadan; Accessible Publishers, Ibadan; Naija Poetry Fest Community, Lagos; Literary Authors Cooperative (LITACO), Lagos; African Heritage Research Library & Cultural Centre (AHRLC), Ibadan; and ATnT360 TV, Lagos, NIPOCON 2026 promises to be a landmark event that will leave an enduring imprint on Nigeria’s literary landscape and remain in the house of memory for years to come.
