Founder and Director of Readbug Children’s Literature Festival, Hajiya Aysha Abdullahi, has harped on the need for continuous book reading among children in the face of globalization.
Aysha, who is holding the festival in Abuja and bringing together 500 children, along with parents, educators, authors, publishers and literacy advocates, noted that book reading can never be underestimated as stories help children imagine possibilities beyond what they see today.
”Reading has never been more important than it is today. We often think of reading as something children do to pass exams, but it is so much more than that.
”Reading is how children learn to think critically, communicate clearly, solve problems, and understand perspectives beyond their own. Every story a child reads expands their imagination and equips them with skills they will carry into adulthood.
”We’re entering a future shaped by artificial intelligence, rapid technological advancement, and constant access to information. In that kind of world, simply having information isn’t enough. What will set children apart is their ability to ask thoughtful questions, imagine new possibilities, and create solutions that don’t yet exist. Stories nurture those abilities.
”Before a child becomes an engineer, architect, entrepreneur, scientist, or artist, they first learn to imagine. Stories give children permission to dream, to explore different worlds, and to believe they can build something meaningful of their own.”
The festival director noted that there ought to be a balance between allowing children to enjoy themselves with tablets and games, which should be filtered, and ensuring they read books. She urged parents to spend ten minutes reading books together with the children before they sleep daily, as it forms a habit which is valuable in the long run.
She noted that digital tools have incredible educational value when used well. “The challenge is balance. If every free moment is spent consuming fast-paced digital content, children have fewer opportunities to develop the patience, concentration, and imagination that reading encourages.
”Books ask children to slow down. They invite them to create pictures in their minds, to connect emotionally with characters, and to think deeply about ideas. That’s a very different experience from simply scrolling through content.
Ayisa noted that the theme of the 2026 Readbug Children’s Literature Festival
Emphasizing on developing the youth through book reading, she stated that children don’t become readers by accident, but they become readers because the adults around them make books part of everyday life.
”You don’t have to be an expert. Read together for ten minutes before bed. Visit a bookstore or library. Give books as birthday gifts. Talk about stories over dinner.
”Let children see you reading too. Small, consistent moments can have a lifelong impact. If we want children to become thoughtful leaders, creative innovators, compassionate citizens, and confident communicators, then we must first give them opportunities to encounter great stories.”
