The launch of the book “When Tomorrow Beckons” in Yenagoa transcended a mere literary celebration; it became a powerful call for the youth of Bayelsa and surrounding regions to reconnect with the principles of discipline, the joy of reading, and a renewed sense of cultural identity.
Hosted at the Best Western Plus Hotel by Ox-bow Lake, the gathering united community leaders, authors, educators, and avid readers who collectively affirmed the enduring significance of books as vital instruments for personal growth and societal transformation.
Justice Patience Diri, the wife of the Bayelsa State governor and the event’s distinguished guest, highlighted the occasion as a poignant reminder of literature’s lasting impact. She emphasized that this publication arrives at a crucial juncture for a society striving to uphold values that foster development and excellence.
“When Tomorrow Beckons emerges at a pivotal time for our community and for all who cherish ideas, culture, and advancement. I commend the author for the dedication, discipline, and generosity required to transform a quiet concept into a tangible book we can all engage with,” Justice Diri remarked.
She went on to underscore the timeless nature of books, describing them as invaluable legacies that outlive their creators and ignite inspiration across generations.
“Books possess a unique power-they journey beyond their authors and endure far beyond their initial readers. They safeguard collective memory, enrich public discourse, and provide young minds with meaningful aspirations,” she added.
Justice Diri encouraged students and educators alike to immerse themselves in diverse reading materials, drawing lessons from works such as When Tomorrow Beckons. She noted the book’s lucid and balanced approach as a valuable resource for scholars seeking profound literary insights.
Ambassador Godknows Igali reinforced the cultural significance of the book, pointing out its exploration of Ijaw identity and urging the youth to embrace writing as a means of preserving their heritage.
“This book delves into the essence of the Ijaw people and our place within the Niger Delta. It is vital for young individuals to document their origins through writing to safeguard our history,” he stated.
Author Dr. Ebidenyefa Tarila-Nikade revealed that the book launch also functioned as a fundraising event for Spelling Bee Bayelsa, a competition designed for primary and secondary school students throughout the state.
“The Spelling Bee aims to inspire children to engage in intellectually stimulating activities. We intend to reward participants with financial incentives, educational resources, and potentially scholarships,” she explained.
Dr. Tarila-Nikade shared that the book was intentionally crafted to celebrate Ijaw culture, portraying the community’s cosmology, customs, and values beyond the common narratives of oil and hardship.
“Our goal is to showcase the strength of our people, highlighting our traditions, taboos, worldview, and rich cultural heritage. From our cuisine to our attire, every element is woven into this narrative,” she said.
She also advised young aspiring writers to cultivate effective time management, balancing social media use with dedicated reading and research.
“To establish a distinctive presence, one must invest time in thorough research within their field of interest and produce work worthy of recognition. Consistent engagement with literature remains the cornerstone of achieving excellence,” Dr. Tarila-Nikade concluded.
