Providus Bank reaffirmed its commitment to culture and creativity on Thursday, March 20, when it hosted the seventh edition of its World Poetry Day Cafe at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Arts and Culture in Lagos.
The event, themed “Poetry as Influence,” brought together renowned poets, literary enthusiasts and cultural stakeholders to recognise the impact of poetry on society.
It was curated by Culture Advocates Caucus and directed by journalist Jahman Anikulapo.
In his welcome address, Walter Akpani, managing director and CEO of Providus Bank, highlighted the significance of poetry in shaping culture, preserving identity, and fostering global understanding.
He said, “Poetry is not just an art form, but a vital force that sharpens perception, deepens empathy, and challenges us to see the world with greater clarity.”
Mr Akpani also underscored Providus Bank’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote arts and culture, stating, “At Providus Bank, we believe that progress is not defined by numbers alone. It is also measured by the ideas we nurture, the cultures we support, and the platforms we build for meaningful expression.”
He added, “Over the years, this event has grown into more than a celebration. It has become a cultural bridge, bringing together eminent poets from across the world to share space with Nigeria’s exceptional literary voices. In doing so, we are not only showcasing talent; we are contributing to a broader, global dialogue—one that places Nigeria firmly within the world’s literary and creative consciousness.”
The event featured 11 poets from Nigeria and around the world, namely Yolanda Castaño, Maryam Palizban, Ayomide Fasedu, Dike Chukwumerije, Hafsat Abdullahi, Mohsen Emadi, Nwani Emmanuel Chidera, Oloruntobiloba Abiodun, Valter Hugo Mãe, Bá Sabouke and Pacella Chukwuma‑Eke.
Soyinka was announced as the 12th and surprise poet of the day.
Addressing the audience, the Nobel laureate exhibited his trademark wit, saying, “I would begin with an apology; I am not responsible for your being at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts. I did not pick the venue. I didn’t even know about it. It’s one of these tricks played by the organisers, the sponsors and all these things. They tell me at the last moment I’m supposed to be at something called the Wole Soyinka Centre. Soyinka is still trying to look for his centre. He hasn’t found it in 90 years and they say it is located in Iganmu. That’s right. Iganmu is where the original brewery was.”
The 91-year-old then proceeded to read a poem to the awe and admiration of the audience.
The 2026 World Poetry Day celebration further solidified Providus Bank’s position as a champion of arts and culture in Nigeria, providing a platform for literary voices to be heard and contributing to the country’s rich cultural heritage.
