Innatism Unleashed: Highlights from NIPCON 2023’s Cultural Extravaganza

The Nigeria International Poetry Convention (NIPCON) celebrated its second edition from November 29 to December 2, 2023, under the theme “Innatism: Create Your Truth.” This four-day event seamlessly blended virtual and in-person activities, providing a vibrant platform for poets, writers, and cultural enthusiasts to engage with Nigeria’s rich poetic heritage.

Key Highlights from the Event include:

Virtual Book Chat

The convention kicked off with a Virtual Book Chat featuring 32 participants who discussed works by notable Abuja authors Yuri Winston, Michael Imossan, and Abdulrazaq Salihu. This engaging session fostered lively exchanges about poetry’s societal impact and its role in shaping narratives.

Virtual Poetry Album Chat

On the second day, an intimate gathering of 20 participants explored albums by leading Nigerian poets Faith Moyosore and Christie Jay. This session underscored poetry’s universal language, celebrating its diversity and authenticity while resonating deeply with attendees across the nation.

Play 4 Poetry Football Exhibition Match

A unique highlight of the convention was the “Play 4 Poetry” football match, which united athletes and poetry lovers in a spirited competition. After an exhilarating 90 minutes, the NIPCON team emerged victorious over the Artvocacy team, showcasing the dynamic synergy between creativity and athleticism.

Keynote Address

The final day featured a keynote address by renowned poet Deji Ige, followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion on the commercialization of truth. Participants also engaged in a performance poetry class led by Tamara Dogubo, enhancing their understanding of the craft.

Retro Poetry Carnival

The evening culminated in the Retro Poetry Carnival, a vibrant celebration of Nigeria’s artistic heritage through live performances, art showcases, and a spectacular fireworks display. This free event invited all to partake in the celebration of creativity.

Popup Events Across Nigeria and Scotland

NIPCON extended its reach with popup events held in major cities across Nigeria and Scotland. These events allowed local communities to engage with the convention’s theme and participate in various poetic activities.

With over 200 attendees, NIPCON 2023 successfully fostered meaningful engagement among participants, solidifying its position as a cultural force in Nigeria. The convention not only celebrated poetic expression but also reinforced the importance of community in nurturing creativity.