Lechi Eke, however, added, “Starting ReadingCafé wasn’t my brilliant idea. I never thought about it. I was called into it. The Lord asked me to do it”
By Eberechi Obinagwam
A writer, newspaper columnist and convener of literary programme, ReadingCafé, Lechi Eke has said she started it to encourage reading culture in Nigeria and better the society.
She made this known recently at the 9th edition of the programme held at the Afe Babalola Hall, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Lagos.
This year’s lecture themed: ‘Salvaging Africa through Literature’ had in attendance – Members of the National Association of English and Literary Studies (NASELS), lecturers, mainly from Department of English, University of Lagos, writers, fledgling writers and book lovers from outside the university.
Speakers at 2024 ReadingCafe include, Dr Nnanna Iroh of the Department of History, Anchor University, Peace Isaac-Verokun, a Content Creator/ Producer, NTA, Dr Eghosa Imasuen, a Novelist, Kehinde Okeowo, TheNiche HR Director and Media Practitioner and Catherine Okunola, a Digital Content Creator.
The discussants handled topics such as Creative Writing, the need to write, broadcasting and journalism as well as content creation
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Speaking on what motivated her to start the learning programme targeted at creatives, book lovers and the literati, the convener of the event, Lechi Eke said she wanted to influence the society positively through improving the reading culture of Nigerians.
She went on to say she conceived the idea in 2012 but held the maiden edition of the event three years later.
She further clarified that she initially named it ‘Read Out Loud’ before eventually settling for ” ReadingCafe”
Asked why she initiated the programme Lechi said, ” I began ReadingCafe for the love of Literature.
“The love for a better society for arts refine people smoothening off their rough edges, enlightening them, helping them to shun street and beastly behaviours and violence, transforming them from the uncouth to the refined.
“A society where people read books is a society of enlightened people. Reading improves people; promotes progress. Reading and progress go hand in hand! I will say, ‘Be wary of people who don’t read!’
“However, starting ReadingCafé wasn’t my brilliant idea. I never thought about it. I was called into it. The Lord asked me to do it”
Reading Cafe is held annually and it is organised by FinishedWork Enterprises in collaboration with National Association of Students of English and Literary Studies (NASELS) and the Department of English, University of Lagos.
It is supported by United Bank for Africa (UBA) TheNiche Newspaper and Wale Arikawe.
