Lola Shoneyin

Lola Shoneyin is an award-winning Nigerian author, poet, publisher, and literary advocate. She is best known for her acclaimed debut novel, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives, which explores family dynamics, gender roles, and polygamy in contemporary Nigeria. The novel received international recognition, was translated into several languages, and won multiple literary awards.

Beyond her writing, Shoneyin has played a major role in promoting African literature. She is the founder of the Book Buzz Foundation and the driving force behind the internationally recognized Aké Arts and Book Festival, one of Africa's leading literary festivals. Through these initiatives, she has helped support emerging writers, encourage reading culture, and expand opportunities for African storytellers.

Her literary career began with poetry before she moved into fiction and children's literature. She has published several poetry collections, children's books, essays, and opinion pieces in international publications, establishing herself as one of Nigeria's most influential contemporary literary voices.