Society Gists

Africa Literature Trust Fund is proud to announce the debut of If I Were My Country’s President, a thought-provoking poetry collection by acclaimed Nigerian media personality and poet Seunmanuel Faleye. Scheduled for release on March 1, 2025, the book delves deeply into the complexities of contemporary Nigerian society, offering fresh perspectives and actionable solutions to its critical issues.

In this brilliantly written collection, Faleye uses his signature poetic style to explore an array of challenges plaguing modern Nigeria, including governance, social justice, economic disparity, and national cohesion. Each poem reflects his sharp insights and personal connection to the Nigerian narrative, transforming the collection into both a poignant critique and a visionary guide for progress.

“Poetry has always been a powerful tool for driving social change,” says Faleye. “Through these verses, I’m not just shining a light on our struggles—I’m inspiring readers to imagine a Nigeria led by purposeful action and driven by visionary leadership. Every poem is a dialogue about what is possible when we dare to envision a brighter future and commit to making it a reality.”

The collection’s foreword, penned by Otunba Engr. Gbenga Daniel — Senator representing Ogun East and former Governor of Ogun State — describes the work as, “…far more than a compilation of poems; it’s a manifesto for national introspection and renewal. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone passionate about building a better Nigeria, from politicians and public servants to students and ordinary citizens.”

Accompanying the book launch, Faleye is set to embark on an ambitious pan-African tour beginning in April 2025. The tour will span three African countries and include book readings, workshops, and interactive sessions with local literary communities.

“This tour is about far more than promoting a book,” Faleye notes. “It’s an opportunity to spark a continent-wide conversation about shared struggles and coordinated solutions. The challenges we face as African nations are interconnected, and poetry can serve as a medium to foster understanding and inspire action.”

Seunmanuel Faleye is a distinguished Nigerian journalist and filmmaker known for his unwavering focus on themes like social justice, governance, and national development. His award-winning short film Deeper Truth, which he co-wrote and produced, addresses critical issues of religious and ethnic tolerance in Northeast Nigeria. Africa Literature Trust Fund, a leading publisher of African works, is dedicated to championing voices that confront contemporary issues while celebrating Africa’s diverse literary legacy.