Naija Poetry Fest Community Reflects on Loss and Memory with “An Empty Chair” 🇳🇬

The Naija Poetry Fest Community held another evocative edition of its Monthly Poetic Rendezvous on Saturday, August 22, 2026, bringing together poets, writers, literature enthusiasts and members of the creative community at Alliance Française de Lagos, Mike Adenuga Centre, Ikoyi.Held in collaboration with Alliance Française de Lagos, Mike Adenuga Centre and 1000 Stories Production, the gathering was coordinated by award-winning poet and cultural advocate Godson Osarenren alongside ace actor and storyteller Kelvinmary Ndukwe. The theme, “An Empty Chair,” offered participants a contemplative space to explore loss, memory and the enduring presence of loved ones who have passed on.

Rather than presenting grief simply as the consequence of physical absence, the rendezvous explored the ways memories continue to inhabit the lives and spaces of those left behind. Through poetry, spoken word, music and conversation, participants gave voice to love, remembrance and the quiet ache of missing someone.The programme featured engaging musical performances and poetry recitations by Smart Crest Schools and Holyspice, alongside presentations from poets, writers and other members of the creative community.

Africanboyvibes added a soulful dimension to the gathering with a captivating guitar performance, while Tai Ajayi and Joseph Pere brought their individual creative expressions to the theme, deepening the emotional texture of the afternoon.

One of the most interactive moments came through a creative writing exercise facilitated by 1000 Stories. Participants were given coded words known only to those present and challenged to transform them into prompts for original poems. The exercise encouraged spontaneity and demonstrated how the same set of words could inspire remarkably different interpretations, depending on…