Plateau State is set to host prominent writers, scholars, and literary enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond for the 3rd edition of the Plateau International Literary Festival (PILFES) 2026.
The literary festival, themed “Literature and Identity: Towards Peaceful Coexistence on the Plateau and Beyond,” aims to promote intellectual engagement, cultural exchange, and the role of literature in fostering peace and social harmony.
Among the distinguished guests expected at the event is Wale Okediran, Secretary General of the Pan African Writers Association, who will headline the festival.
The keynote address will be delivered by Zynab Ango of the University of Abuja, while award-winning filmmaker Kenneth Gyang is expected as a special guest.
The festival activities will begin with an Evening of Poetry scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Alliance Française Jos.
The official opening ceremony is billed for Friday, May 22, 2026, at Odilins Event Center in Jos, while the closing ceremony will hold on Saturday, May 23, 2026.
One of the major highlights of the event will be the unveiling of the ANA Plateau Anthology, Volume III, alongside award presentations to notable individuals and organizations for their contributions to literature and education on the Plateau.
Among those to be honoured are Nentawe Yilwatda, Associate Professor Afan Kaze of the University of Jos, author Abubakar Adams, and SIL International.
The festival will also feature the announcement and presentation of the winner of the Prof. Chris Kwaja ANA Plateau Creative Writing Competition for secondary schools.
Organisers say the event will include poetry performances, literary conversations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities involving leading African writers and creatives.
The Plateau International Literary Festival has continued to grow in prominence, further positioning Plateau State as a hub for literary, cultural, and intellectual development in Nigeria.
