By Nkechi Edogbo
The Benin Writers Society (BWS) has explored the theme of trust through poetry, discussions and performances at the July edition of its monthly Poetry Playground, while inaugurating a campus coordination committee at the University of Benin.
The event, themed “Tirades on Trust,” was held on Thursday at City Café in Benin City and attracted writers, students and poetry enthusiasts, including several first-time participants from UNIBEN.
The programme, hosted by popular compere Talker, opened with an interactive session to welcome new participants before poetry performances explored issues of betrayal, faith, love, healing and recovery.
Speaking at the event, President and Founder of the Benin Writers Society, Douglas Ogbankwa, welcomed the new participants and described the society as a platform for nurturing emerging writers.
“We are glad to see new faces from UNIBEN here with us today. Thank you for coming. I promise you, you will leave here inspired. This is a home for writers and a place to pass the baton to the next generation,” he said.
Members, including Planted, Princess Diana, Bernice, Mary, Favour, Vodi, ThankGod and Ogbankwa, presented poems reflecting different perspectives on trust.
A panel discussion moderated by broadcaster Gloria Vitalis examined the relationship between love and trust, with participants sharing personal experiences and humorous reflections that drew laughter from the audience.
The event also featured a musical performance by Vodi and interactive games, including “The Fastest Fingers,” coordinated by the society’s Communications Officer, Nkechi Edogbo, and “The Last Man Standing,” facilitated by Vice President (Events and External Affairs), Princess Diana Eweka. Winners received cash prizes sponsored by the society.
The highlight of the programme was the inauguration of the UNIBEN Campus Coordination Committee.
The newly inaugurated officials are Naomi Isidahomen (Chairperson), Eguoba ThankGod (Vice Chairperson), Jessica Ugbo (Treasurer), Olivia Isemede (Secretary), Odia Mary (Publicity Secretary) and Theophilus Oliver (Provost).
Charging the committee, Ogbankwa urged the members to promote creative writing and expand the society’s presence on campus.
“This committee is the future of Benin Writers Society on campus. Go and tell our stories. Build the next generation of writers,” he said.
The event concluded with a charades session, group photographs and networking, as participants described the gathering as engaging, inspiring and impactful.
The Benin Writers Society said the monthly Poetry Playground remains part of its commitment to promoting literary expression and mentoring young writers under its motto, “Telling Tales for the Next Generation.”
