We came, we saw, and we conquered, not with swords or crowns, but with words. We silenced our doubts, faced our fears, and birthed a new pathway for poetry to thrive in the land of my birth. To God be the glory!
On Saturday, 30th August 2025, the ancient city of Benin pulsed with new life as poets, scholars, art lovers, and dignitaries gathered at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub for the Battle of the Stanzas (BOTS). Jointly organised by the Naija Poetry Fest Community and Benin Writers Society, the festival embraced the theme “Renaissance of the Poetic” a revival of literary culture and a bold affirmation that poetry is both memory and prophecy, a tool of renewal for society.
With Edo’s first digital indoor red carpet and an audience spanning education, media, and the arts, the festival proved that poetry is both a cultural celebration and a clarion call for society. Anchored by Bernice and Tomini (Naijanese), the festival opened with a stirring performance by Seun Oyeniyi, Moyosore, and Kachi, followed by the national anthem. Warm words from the conveners Godson Osarenren and Douglas Ogbankwa set the tone for an unforgettable day.
The festival also carved space for dialogue. A thought-provoking panel moderated by Kemi Alao (Kemistry) featured cultural voices like Eriata Oribhabor and Professor Eunice Omozejie. They reflected on literary literacy, the impact of social media, and the urgent need for stronger cultural infrastructure to support writers and the arts.
Adding theatre to thought, the Naija Poetry Fest Media Team staged “Lost Poems,” a moving play urging young people to reclaim their voices in a world too eager to silence them. It struck the audience deeply, echoing the theme of renewal and rebirth.
Chaired by Pastor Mike Omoregbe, supported by Professor Eunice Omozejie, Eriata Oribhabor, and Mr. Aiko Obobaifo as judges.
The poetry contest charged with anticipation brought together rising voices and veteran masters. In one fiery rounds, each poet bared truths, hopes, and struggles through verses that moved the audience from laughter to deep reflection. Oghenovo (Floreb the poet) took the day as part of the Top 5 from 22 contestants. They were certified and honoured for originality, depth, and delivery, cementing the festival’s place as one of Nigeria’s most dynamic platforms for poetic expression.
The highlight of the day was the unveiling of Stanzas from the Bronze Capital, a 109-page anthology the first ever in Edo State. It was more than a book launch; it was a landmark moment that declared the poetic spirit of Benin not only alive but eternal. For many, it symbolises a bridge between memory and future, ensuring that poetry remains a vital voice in Nigerian society.
Throughout the day, poetry danced hand in hand with music, drama, and culture. Lady Patra and Osareme Darlington filled the hall with soulful sounds, Seun, Moyosore and Kachi electrified the stage with dance, and a recital of Robert Frost’s The Road Not Taken by Jungle Baron reminded all that poetry is a compass guiding human destiny.
The festival closed with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Princess Diana Eweka, but its impact reached far beyond the creative hub’s walls. The Battle of the Stanzas was not just a gathering; it was a declaration that Benin City remains the cradle of culture and that Nigerian poetry is stepping boldly into a new era of recognition and influence.
As one participant beautifully summed it up: “This is not just poetry. This is history—written in stanzas.”
To our collaborators, Story Tide (Mr. Scott and Michael), you made home feel like home with all sense of fulfillment.
To Barr. Douglas Ogbankwa, thank you for your unwavering commitment. From the very first call, your presence helped turn a dream into history. Together, we are not only celebrating a festival but also unveiling the very first anthology in the 34-year history of Edo State.
Special thanks to the Edo State Ministry of Arts and Culture, the Commissioner of Police Edo State also gave a surprise visit; to every member of the Benin Writers Society (Nosa, Queen Bee, Royalty, and Kemi), you were phenomenal.
And to the vibrant creatives of the Naija Poetry Fest Community, your brilliance was the sparkle, the “wow” that lifted this festival beyond expectations.
Relive the sights and sounds from the epic afternoon of poetic excellence below
