Akanazu applauds supporters as poetry book wins approval for Abia schools.
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Author and poet, Joe-Blaise Nnaemeka Akanazu, has expressed appreciation to individuals and institutions whose efforts contributed to the approval of his poetry collection, Soul and Spirit Poetry of the Heart Plus More, for use in junior secondary schools across Abia State. The Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has approved the book for use at the Upper Basic level in junior secondary schools for the 2025–2028 school years, placing Akanazu’s work among literary materials recommended for students in the state. Reacting to the development in a message to Umuaka Times, Akanazu described the approval as a significant milestone and gave what he called a “pat on the back” to those who played important roles in making the achievement possible.
Akanazu particularly expressed special appreciation to Chief Louis Duru, a former Commissioner in Imo State, whom he described as “a real brother indeed” for his support, encouragement and efforts towards the approval of the book. According to Akanazu, Chief Duru’s contribution went beyond ordinary assistance, stressing that his commitment demonstrated the importance of individuals supporting literary development and the advancement of education. The author also singled out his secretary, Esther Chinatu Nnadi, for special commendation, revealing that she spent several sleepless nights working on the computer to ensure that everything required for the process was properly handled. Akanazu described Nnadi’s dedication as invaluable, noting that her persistence and painstaking efforts contributed significantly to the successful outcome.
The latest approval adds to the growing recognition of Soul and Spirit Poetry of the Heart Plus More. The book has also been approved for Catholic schools in Delta State and has received general approval for use in Imo and Abia States. The author said he is currently awaiting a review from the relevant authorities in Anambra State.
The poetry collection has attracted wider educational and media recognition, including a recommendation from the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) and coverage by The Guardian. The Abia approval places Akanazu’s work alongside other literary titles approved for the same educational level, including In My Oasis by NmaMba and Gold in Unlikely Places by Dr. Chukwuemeka N. Oluoha.
The author’s appreciation of the people behind the approval highlights the collaborative effort often required to move locally produced literary works from the hands of authors into the formal education system. For Akanazu, the approval represents not only recognition of his literary work but also an opportunity for young students to encounter poetry and creative writing as part of their educational development. With approvals already secured in several educational systems and another review expected from Anambra State, Soul and Spirit Poetry of the Heart Plus More appears set to reach an increasingly wider audience of young Nigerian readers.
