For his
contribution towards the educational development of children, as well as
affecting lives with his knowledge, talent and service to humanity, Lagos State
Deputy Governor, Dr Oluranti Adebule, has commended the author of newly launched
children’s book series, Mr Olusegun Akande.
At the
official launch of a new book series titled, Amazing Adventures of Izi and
Larry the Dinosaur, published by Quramo Publishing under its Mango Books
imprint; which took place at Quintessence, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, the Deputy
Governor who was represented by the Director General, Office of Quality
Assurance, Ministry of Education, Mrs Ronke Soyombo, said the book will serve
as a good resource for children, parents, guardians and school authorities.
“I
commend the passion and courage of the author for coming up with series of
books, which signifies the rebirth of pride and passion in Nigeria and African
history, culture and religion. The launch of these books has also confirmed
your unrelenting efforts and contribution towards children's educational
development in our nation”, she said.
She also
described the book as highly educative books that will serve as good and rich
resourceful companions for professionals, teachers, principals, librarians and
students, as she recommends the series to the public and encouraged parents to
get copies for their children.
Also
speaking, Chief Executive of Standard Chartered Bank, Mrs Bola Adesola said,
"this is an encouragement to children and a welcome development, because
many Nigerian children are being taken abroad at an early stage without the
knowledge about their country".
She said,
"schools no longer teach history but books like these help to teach
Nigerian culture, as it is easy to read , fun to understand, and helps children
to connect with their culture. Segun has done a fantastic job in coming up with
this. He should put it on social media such as Amazon, I-books, so that
children can enjoy the graphics in it”.
Speaking
on the book, the author, Olusegun Akande said "Amazing Adventures of Izi
and Larry the Dinosaur tells the story of two very good friends, eight-year-old
Izi and magical, flying dinosaur, Larry - who lives in a zoo.
Together,
they go on wonderful adventures in which Larry teaches Izi about different
ethnic groups and cultures; they see the world as a kaleidoscope of many
customs and practices held together by tolerance, kindness, and understanding.
This unique series comes in a box set of five intriguing stories".
When
asked about his motivation behind this exciting new children's book series, the
author, Mr. Olusegun Akande explained, "the objectives of these books are
three-fold.
First of
all, I want to create a new generation of Nigerians and Africans that are proud
of their heritage. I'm very concerned about the poor knowledge of our history
and origins, and as a result, our lack of pride in heritage.
By
educating our children via the history of nations across Africa, we stand a far
better chance of fostering future generations of dedicated, hardworking,
innovative, and progressive Africans.
Secondly,
I want children to grow up understanding, respecting, and embracing Nigerians /
Africans of different cultures and beliefs. Only by doing so, can we have unity
and hence progress. And finally, these books are designed to encourage children
to be true to themselves”.
The
Marketing Director of Izi and Larry Literature, Ms. Toyosi Olatunji added that
“these series of books will cover countries right across Africa. In other
words, Izi and Larry will go on adventures across many African countries.
Africa has huge potential; and by educating and enlightening our children, we
stand a far better chance of actualising that potential".
See
more photos from the launch below:
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