CORA Unveils Theme, Date for 27th Lagos Book & Art Festival
By Matthew Eloyi
The Committee for Relevant Art (CORA) has announced “CHANGE: Imagining Alternatives” as the theme for the 27th Lagos Book & Art Festival (LABAF), slated to hold from November 10 to 16, 2025.
This revelation was made on Sunday during the closing ceremony of LABAF 26.0, themed “BREAKOUT: Hope Is a Stubborn Thing,”at the Kongi’s Harvest Art Gallery, Freedom Park, Lagos.
Toyin Akinosho, CORA’s Secretary-General, explained that the upcoming theme reflects the need to explore alternatives to existing societal systems, particularly in the context of Nigeria’s ongoing challenges.
He noted that while the current edition examined the persistence of hope amid adversity, LABAF 27.0 will delve into the concept of change and inspire discourse on reimagining governance, societal systems, and personal transformations.
“Given the eruptions globally and locally, it’s time to think about change—not just as a concept but as actionable alternatives,” Akinosho stated.
He added that the festival will spotlight books and art that stimulate such imaginative thinking.
CORA’s tradition of unveiling the theme for the next edition at the closing ceremony was upheld, with Chief Kayode Aderinokun, Chairman of CORA’s Board of Trustees, formally closing the festival.
Aderinokun lauded participants and volunteers, emphasising CORA’s commitment to fostering intellectual discourse for national and continental progress.
“We are passionate about Nigeria’s future and Africa’s progress. That’s why we bring together intellectuals, creatives, and well-meaning citizens to discuss ideas for positive change,” Aderinokun remarked, paying special tribute to the CORA Volunteer Corps (CVC) for their efforts.
The announcement was met with jubilation from the audience, including youths, creatives, and festival stakeholders.
CORA Programme Chair and LABAF Director, Jahman Anikulapo, urged attendees to reflect on the theme and propose content ideas for the next festival.
Since its inception in 1999, LABAF has grown into a literary and cultural feast, with a focus on education, enlightenment, and empowerment.
LABAF 26.0 featured 73 events, including book readings, visual arts exhibitions, workshops, and performances in poetry, drama, and music.
The festival also champions youth engagement through initiatives like the Green Festival for secondary school students and the CORA Youth Creative Club.
The Committee for Relevant Art (CORA) is a nonprofit organisation advocating for arts, culture, and creativity as tools for national development.
With a focus on education and empowerment, CORA has positioned LABAF as a vital platform for intellectual exchange and cultural celebration.
The festival’s 2025 edition promises to deepen its impact by exploring transformative ideas and engaging diverse audiences in the pursuit of change.
