Arrangements are reaching conclusive stages for the KidLit Fest, Nigeria’s most impactful children’s literature and story festival, returns with its largest-ever edition, featuring a pan-African line-up headlined by Ghana’s Elizabeth Irene Baitie and performer, Makayla Malaka.

The organisers, Kid Lit Foundation, announced the return, which is set for Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the Jewel Aeida in Lekki. Building on the resounding success of its previous edition, which captivated over a thousand young minds, families, and educators, the festival solidifies its status as Nigeria’s most impactful children’s literature and story festival.

With the theme Once Upon a Time, this year’s programme is a direct response to that growth, offering an unprecedented lineup of international and local talent to inspire the next generation of readers and creators.

“The phrase ‘Once Upon a Time’ is an invitation to every child to begin their own story,” said Sope Martins, Founder of The Kid Lit Foundation. “The overwhelming response last year proved the hunger for a platform like this. Now, we’re elevating every aspect—from welcoming a literary icon Baitie to launching GenOne Talks because the most important voices we amplify are those of the children themselves. We are building a world-class platform that proves the transformative power of stories.”

He added, “the acclaimed Ghanaian author, Elizabeth Irene Baitie, will lead an immersive author reading session, connecting Nigerian youth to a wider African literary landscape.”

According to him, “festival stage will come alive with a spectacular show by family entertainment star Makayla Malaka.

“There will be animation workshops with Magic Carpet Studios and illustration masterclasses to a dedicated poetry workshop; children will learn the tools of storytelling from pros.

“Making its powerful debut, GenOne Talks will provide a TED-style platform for young visionaries to share their bold ideas with the world: A thrilling competition that champions eloquence and vocabulary.”

A wonderland of activities, including a dedicated circus and interactive story sessions, ensures a day of non-stop discovery. The KidLit Fest, organised by The Kid Lit Foundation, has established a proven track record of massive engagement, creating a unique and positive environment for community engagement and cultural development.

The Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering the next generation through the power of stories. Its mission is to nurture literacy, creativity, and confident self-expression in African children.