
This reflective piece explores the balance between passion and self-awareness, showing how true fulfilment comes not just from following what excites us, but also from understanding our limitations and crafting authentic, sustainable goals.
This reflective piece explores the balance between passion and self-awareness, showing how true fulfilment comes not just from following what excites us, but also from understanding our limitations and crafting authentic, sustainable goals.
"Data" is a metaphor-rich poem that explores the rise of data as the new oil, symbolizing power, control, and modern forms of digital imperialism. It reflects on the promises and perils of the information age—where nations battle over invisible resources, societies are entrapped by hidden chains of dependence, and humanity risks trading justice and truth for fleeting pleasures and clout. The poem paints a surreal landscape of disruption, slavery, and awakening in a world shaped by intangible yet potent forces.
I wrote this poem to give failure a seat at the table. Too often, we treat it like an enemy, forgetting that it’s been present at every turning point in our lives. I wrote this as a reminder that failure isn’t the opposite of success, it’s part of the process. It carries the weight, takes the fall, and still doesn’t get the credit. This piece is my way of telling the truth about that.
When Yusuf, a self-proclaimed “anti-cleaner,” loses his prized Nike slides to a murky Lagos gutter on sanitation day, humiliation forces him to rethink everything he believed about cleanliness. In this humorous and eye-opening short story, Yusuf’s slippery encounter leads to an unexpected transformation—from passive bystander to environmental advocate. The Gutter Knows is a coming-of-age tale laced with wit, cultural flavor, and a powerful reminder that keeping our surroundings clean is everyone’s business.
As it was from the onset, identity has been a major concern within human space and locality. This poem gives credence to the outright realities of people who have been subjected to nought or nothingness due to their identity and belonging, cutting across the religious, social, political, ideological, cultural lines, etc. The writer cautioned that identity should not be a yardstick for human judgement nor classification, as it reduces their humanness and the humanity itself, while in fact reminding us that man himself stemmed from a sole unique root.
"Eden" is a reflective and spiritual poem that seeks redemption and communion with God, yearning for a return to a divine state of grace. The poet envisions a new Eden where love, sisterhood, and alignment with God’s will create a harmonious world. Through the metaphor of Eden, the poem calls for transformation—exchanging worldly temptations for divine wisdom and peace, and fostering a culture rooted in grace and unity.
"Big Belly, Big Agbada" is a poignant poem that critiques the irresponsible leadership in a nation where the future of the children is sacrificed for immediate gains. The poet highlights the mismanagement of resources by leaders who prioritize vanity and self-indulgence, leaving the youth to suffer and the nation to decay. Through vivid imagery, the poem condemns the disconnect between leadership and its duty to the future generations.
A vibrant and hopeful cover image capturing the essence of new beginnings and the excitement of the first day of school. Featuring books, a schoolbag, and a warm sunrise, this illustration inspires growth, transformation, and the courage to embrace challenges on the journey ahead.
A thought-provoking poem that exposes political hypocrisy and economic mismanagement. With sharp imagery and rhythmic flow, the author critiques those who exploit power, mask selfishness with faith, and manipulate narratives while the nation bears the consequences. A compelling reflection on truth, justice, and accountability.
In this thought-provoking poetry, 'Wounded' Opeyemi Afeni reflects on the historical injustices faced by a continent and the enduring impact of past wrongs. It conveys a sense of unresolved pain and the ongoing struggle for recognition and justice.