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<blockquote>The Yemipoet April Poetry Contest invited poets to write from a picture shared on Instagram.</blockquote> Using the image as inspiration, participants were asked to think about what they saw and create their own stories from it.Each poem had to be written in three stanzas with a total of fifteen lines. This helped poets stay clear and focused while expressing their ideas. Through this, many different thoughts and feelings were shared, all from one single picture.<h3>Submission Process</h3>Contest Announced:1st April, 2026 &nbsp;Submissions Closed: 9th April, 2026 &nbsp;All entries were submitted through the official website @www.yemipoetproduction.comTotal Entries: 152 submissions were received from poets across diverse backgrounds &nbsp;<h3>Evaluation and Winners</h3>Entries were carefully reviewed based on how real they felt, the emotions they expressed, and how well they reflected the picture prompt. Thirty strong entries were first selected as the Top 30. From these, ten poets were chosen as the Top 10, and from there, three poets emerged as the Top 3, taking first, second, and third place.<blockquote>Top 3 winners’ spotlight</blockquote>First Place&nbsp;Name: Johnson Aderinmola DefianceTitle: Not DefeatSecond PlaceName: &nbsp;Tuoye PalmerTitle: The Child Beneath Their ProgressThird PlaceName: Gabriella Ezeh&nbsp;Title: The Crown of Leather<figure id="figure-si0ok5bh4r9mprdt90d"><img id="si0ok5bh4r9mprdt90d" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20KDrHLBuUDX7xJswjvx7QuOdtydta8J7hK9qFonsoD32Wi1DjjmkDy3DIfw6OMK.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 90% 0%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Yemipoet Poetry Contest" data-positionx="90%" data-positiony="0%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20KDrHLBuUDX7xJswjvx7QuOdtydta8J7hK9qFonsoD32Wi1DjjmkDy3DIfw6OMK.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 90% 0%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Yemipoet Poetry Contest</figcaption></figure> <blockquote>Winners awardThe total cash prize of ₦90, 000 was shared among the Top 3 winners.</blockquote>Community Impact &amp; HighlightsIn addition to the monthly contest, the Yemipoet team revisited a poem from the March contest themed The Night I Stopped Apologizing.The poem had first received a low score, but after careful editing, especially improving its use of figurative language, it rose to a score of 77%. This showed the community how simple craft elements like metaphor, imagery, and symbolism can make a poem stronger and more effective.The Yemipoet Facebook community also stayed active during the month. A poem from the group, From Ashes by Racheal Ajisafe, was featured on the official page, helping us reach and engage more readers beyond the website.<h3>Appreciation&nbsp;</h3>We appreciate Yemipoet, the pioneer of this vision, and the Yacso Foundation for their continued support in growing poetry. To our poets and readers, thank you for staying with us.<blockquote>See you in the next edition.</blockquote> Summary Blog Written by: Oreoluwa OdusinaEdited by: Adetutu Oluwapelumi-Deuel

Yemipoet April Poetry Contest’26  A Picture Prompt Contest

The Yemipoet March Poetry Contest invited poets to reflect on their journeys of self-acceptance and empowerment. With a free verse of 25 lines maximum, participants shared their stories of growth, struggles, and triumphs with emphasis on the moment they chose to embrace their voices, stand their ground without self-sabotage.The contest was officially announced on March 1st, 2026, and submissions closed on March 10th, 2026. By the end of the submission period, a total of 255 entries were received from poets across different backgrounds.&nbsp;<h3>Submission Link</h3>All entries were submitted through the official website @www.yemipoetproduction.com<h3>Evaluation and Winners</h3>Entries were carefully reviewed based on authenticity and emotional depth. Thirty-five outstanding entries were shortlisted as the Top 35 winners. From these, twelve poets were carefully selected as the Top 12, and subsequently, three poets emerged as the Top 3 in the order of First, Second, and Third winners respectively.Top 3 winners’ spotlight&nbsp;First Place&nbsp;Name: Oladokun Toluwani&nbsp;Title: SaltSecond PlaceName: Avril Shikari Villar&nbsp;Title: The Night I stopped Apologizing Came After Centuries of WomenThird PlaceName: Florence Chukwuonye&nbsp;Title: That 31st Night<figure id="figure-hdm60bnhrmprcpo3t"><img id="hdm60bnhrmprcpo3t" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21GDZLdr89iD4FKDIhndPuopIgPekNwUtYN76G10DgOaJKrC0e00ZT6NMdx0I9hG.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><blockquote>Winners awardThe total cash prize of ₦90, 000 was shared among the Top 3 winners.</blockquote>World Poetry Day Challenge&nbsp;The Yemipoet community, in collaboration with Yacso Foundation, marked World Poetry Day with an official post on its Instagram page. Poets were invited to take part in a quick challenge: write six lines of a free verse poem and submit it in the comment section before 4 p.m.Seven winners were selected at random, each receiving ₦3,000 in cash or credit.Winners: @vaironical@chin.edu459@halimamiftah243@optimistvictor@esthersolomon_1@the_grace_aladeFinally, in the month of March, we had the pioneer of this vision hosted live by Beth Akinsehinwa, founder of PunPoets Media, at her just concluded Closer with PunPoets 3.0. Through this virtual event, we were able to share ideas and discover creative insights that will contribute to the growth of our community.<h3>Appreciation</h3>We sincerely appreciate every poet who participated, every reader who engaged, every volunteer and judge who evaluated the entries, and every supporter who made the Yemipoet March Poetry Contest a success. Your words mattered. <blockquote>Special thanks to the YACSO Foundation for their continued support and partnership.See you in the next edition.</blockquote>

Yemipoet March Poetry Contest’26  Theme: The Night I Stopped Apologizing

<h2>Building Bridges Through Poetry</h2>

In the vibrant world of Nigerian poetry, few platforms have made as significant an impact as Yemipoet. This dynamic community not only celebrates the art of verse but also creates a space where poets can connect, share, and grow together. By fostering relationships and nurturing talent, Yemipoet has become a beacon for creative expression in Nigeria.

<figure id="figure-8ydk6lteaumprce8kp"><img id="8ydk6lteaumprce8kp" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1644152993066-9b9ee687930d?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxuaWdlcmlhbiUyMHBvZXRzfGVufDB8fHx8MTc4MDA4NDU3NHww&ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=80&w=1080" alt="nigerian poets" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>The Birth of Yemipoet</h3>

Founded by visionary poets who recognized the need for a unified platform, Yemipoet began as a grassroots movement. The founders were driven by a passion to bring together voices from different backgrounds, creating a tapestry of experiences and perspectives. This mission has been at the heart of Yemipoet since its inception.

Today, Yemipoet hosts a vibrant online community where poets engage in discussions, workshops, and collaborative projects. The platform has grown beyond digital boundaries, organizing live events that bring the magic of poetry to local communities.

<h3>Empowering Poets Across Generations</h3>

Yemipoet is committed to empowering both emerging and established poets. By providing resources such as writing workshops, mentorship programs, and publishing opportunities, the platform ensures that poets have the tools they need to succeed. These initiatives have helped many poets find their voice and share their work with a broader audience.

<figure id="figure-jmelhvi6apmprce8kp"><img id="jmelhvi6apmprce8kp" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1576238580501-f21ccaaa83ac?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxwb2V0cnklMjB3b3Jrc2hvcHxlbnwwfHx8fDE3ODAwODQ1NzR8MA&ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=80&w=1080" alt="poetry workshop" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

One of the key features of Yemipoet is its mentorship program, which pairs budding poets with seasoned veterans. This exchange of knowledge and experience is invaluable, helping new poets navigate the complexities of writing and publishing.

<h3>Celebrating Diversity Through Verse</h3>

The diversity of voices on Yemipoet is one of its greatest strengths. Poets from all walks of life share their unique stories, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Nigeria. This diversity is celebrated through themed writing challenges and competitions, which encourage poets to explore new themes and styles.

These challenges not only inspire creativity but also foster a sense of community among participants. Poets are encouraged to support and critique each other's work, creating a collaborative environment that nurtures growth.

<figure id="figure-x3pwt5417mprce8kp"><img id="x3pwt5417mprce8kp" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1561981898-9c83401e4cfd?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxkaXZlcnNlJTIwcG9ldHN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzgwMDg0NTc0fDA&ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=80&w=1080" alt="diverse poets" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>Creating Lasting Connections</h3>

At its core, Yemipoet is about connection. By bringing together poets from various backgrounds, the platform creates opportunities for lasting friendships and professional collaborations. Many poets have found their creative partners through Yemipoet, leading to joint projects and publications.

Through online forums and in-person events, Yemipoet has cultivated a community that supports and uplifts its members. This sense of belonging is what makes Yemipoet more than just a platform—it's a family.

<h3>The Future of Yemipoet</h3>

Looking ahead, Yemipoet aims to expand its reach and impact. Plans are underway to introduce more workshops, increase publishing opportunities, and partner with international poetry communities. The goal is to continue building a strong network that elevates Nigerian poetry on the global stage.

<figure id="figure-346vhef1smmprce8kp"><img id="346vhef1smmprce8kp" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1576238580501-f21ccaaa83ac?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxwb2V0cnklMjBuZXR3b3JrfGVufDB8fHx8MTc4MDA4NDU3NHww&ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=80&w=1080" alt="global poetry network" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

By staying true to its mission of fostering community and connection, Yemipoet is poised to inspire the next generation of poets. As the platform grows, its commitment to nurturing talent and celebrating diversity remains unwavering.

Connecting Through Verse: How Yemipoet Fosters Community Among Nigerian Poets

The February edition of the Yemipoet Poetry Contest 2026 featured a Spoken Word Duet format, inviting poets to collaborate and present expressive and heartfelt performances.<blockquote>The theme for the month was “Love Vows: An Expression of Promises. Participants were asked to creatively interpret this theme by choosing from three relationship perspectives. &nbsp;This provided room for both emotional depth and creative diversity.</blockquote>The contest was officially announced on February 1st, 2026, and submissions closed on February 14th, 2026. By the close of the submission period, a total of 36 entries were received.&nbsp; Submission Instructions: Poets were instructed to create their duet from any of the three options:1) &nbsp; &nbsp; Between lovers at the altar2) &nbsp; &nbsp;Between parents and child3) &nbsp; &nbsp;Between today's you and future selfLength: Not more than 60 to 90 secondsSubmission deadline: February 14th<h3>Submission process:</h3> Together with another poet, make a duet video.&nbsp;Post it on your IG pageCollaborate with @yacsofoundation onlyUse hashtags: #lovevows #yemipoetcontestEnsure you are following both @yemipoet and @yacsofoundation.<h3>Evaluation and Winners Selection</h3>Entries were carefully reviewed based on the ability to follow instructions, originality, creativity, and emotional depth. Using these criteria, the top 11 outstanding duet entries were selected, and from this group, the top 2 duet winners emerged.<blockquote>Merit List Some outstanding duets could not be overlooked from the top 11. In recognition of their creativity, they were placed on the Merit List and each poet received a cash award of ₦15,000.</blockquote>1. Morayo Aliya and Henshaw Daniel2. Oluwafemi and Oluwaseyi Oyelami3. Adetosho Enoch and Grace Jacob4. Emmanuel Oluwatobi and Adeshimisola Samuel&nbsp;<figure id="figure-gi86wubwrmprbszz7" data-full-width=""><img id="gi86wubwrmprbszz7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24BBeWcjOx2wB3dsJOvK3bTJTX6FctyGA5PDcbkG4dHuywDPXIx8IwegoUuX3zoR.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24BBeWcjOx2wB3dsJOvK3bTJTX6FctyGA5PDcbkG4dHuywDPXIx8IwegoUuX3zoR.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Top 2 Duet Winners Spotlight The Top 2 duet winners were selected from the Top 11 list.FIRST PLACELove Vows by Akintan-Ralpha Maria and Mayowa OyebamijiSECOND PLACEPromises4ever by David Omale and Alimikhena OshioleWinners’ Award A total cash prize of ₦150,000 was shared among the winners:₦90,000 was awarded to the first place duet winners.₦60,000 was awarded to the second place duet winners.<a title="First Place" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DVLXuEQjN90/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DVLXuEQjN90/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==">https://www.instagram.com/p/DVLXuEQjN90/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==</a><h3>Appreciation</h3>We sincerely appreciate every participant who took part in the February contest. Thank you to our ever loyal audience, judges, volunteers and partners.<blockquote>Thank you for a February full of love.&nbsp;See you in March!</blockquote>Summary Blog Written and Edited by:&nbsp;Adetutu Oluwapelumi-Deuel

Yemipoet February Poetry Contest 2026 Celebrates “Love Vows” Through Spoken Word Poetry

<blockquote>Theme:Speak Life Into This Year</blockquote>The year 2026 began on a hopeful and affirming note as Yemipoet &nbsp;launched its January monthly contest themed “Speak Life Into This Year.” The contest encouraged participants to use words as seed speaking hope, purpose, resilience, and intention into the new year.The theme resonated widely, drawing voices from different backgrounds who shared powerful reflections, affirmations, and personal declarations for the year ahead.The contest was officially announced on January 1st, 2026, and submissions closed on January 9th, 2026. By the close of the submission period, a total of 746 entries were received, making it one of the most engaging monthly contests so far.<figure id="figure-ay0twndmydmm6vqgat"><img id="ay0twndmydmm6vqgat" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bCbkZZafQ00iDKq7GRIVdy6bkrKwFOeNtC6Tplrxfx78Pjf1PtfXY758Kl4DqSQ.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bCbkZZafQ00iDKq7GRIVdy6bkrKwFOeNtC6Tplrxfx78Pjf1PtfXY758Kl4DqSQ.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Submission Process</h3>All entries were submitted through the official website, www.yemipoetproduction.com.Evaluation and Winners Selection&nbsp; Entries were carefully reviewed based on originality, creativity, and emotional depth.&nbsp;<blockquote>Highlights</blockquote>50 outstanding entries were specially highlighted for their depth, originality, and uplifting messages, celebrating the collective strength of voices within the community.Top 3 Winners Spotlight The Top 3 winners were selected from the Top 50 list.<figure id="figure-z3k1x8j88cmm6vsdpy"><img id="z3k1x8j88cmm6vsdpy" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/15F7QdzDHrcvlw8hCxRoim44464bUhTNFhp5SW7OLOUlV79Tc4RLfeFJiLzpRqHh.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/15F7QdzDHrcvlw8hCxRoim44464bUhTNFhp5SW7OLOUlV79Tc4RLfeFJiLzpRqHh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>FIRST PLACEIKECHUKWU FAVOURYear of the Open MouthClick here to watch the spoken word presentation of our winner's poem by Opeyemi Enitan Moses.<figure id="figure-0mlpsp9cbmm6vuqa4"><iframe id="0mlpsp9cbmm6vuqa4" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RxugWEDdwZ8" class="w-full bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtube.com/shorts/RxugWEDdwZ8?si=L4DOGO5FuJWQmaJd" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RxugWEDdwZ8" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>SECOND PLACESALEEMA A ZAMSARFNo More Leaving it to Luck THIRD PLACEFAVOUR DANIELLuminous EchoesWinners Award &nbsp;A total cash prize of ₦85,000 was shared among the winners.Appreciation We sincerely appreciate every participant who took part in the January contest. Your words set the tone for the year and reminded us of the power of speaking life first to ourselves, and then to the world.<blockquote><h3>Thank you for starting 2026 with purpose. We look forward to more impactful moments in the months ahead.</h3></blockquote>See you in February!Summary Blog Written By: Kolajo Zainab&nbsp;Edited by: Adetutu Oluwapelumi-Deuel<figure id="figure-zl44kewhsmm6vyorp"><iframe id="zl44kewhsmm6vyorp" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iNqwuK6tst0" class="w-full bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtube.com/shorts/iNqwuK6tst0?si=56RDWnv-vALevWRj" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iNqwuK6tst0" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

Yemipoet January Poetry Contest’26

<blockquote><h3>Bayo had always chased luck, counting on numbers to make him rich. Little did he know, today fortune would come with sticky fingers and unexpected chaos</h3></blockquote>Bayo, for as long as he remembered,Has frolicked with numbers,Hoping for that one day,When he would hit it big! Then came a day,From slumber he rose,Feeling lucky,Because he dreamed some figures! Straight to his wallet he went,Ransacking every drawer for a coinWith which to play his luck,For he knew, his time was nigh! But he had neither a coin nor a note,Then headed he to his wife's purseto lend a note,The thief!<figure id="figure-pkpcfi3r0omk5y3v6j"><img id="pkpcfi3r0omk5y3v6j" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4sGQgtfxMrysl0Uoa7z2vcRnytOne8ta5GmNixxkrTbyLhtAh9825PVuJwr3ZyRe.jpg" alt="Published by yemipoet " title="Published by yemipoet " class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Bayo dreamed of fortune, Sola dreamed of survival… and neither knew whose day would go wrong first." data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Bayo dreamed of fortune, Sola dreamed of survival… and neither knew whose day would go wrong first.</figcaption></figure>Sola, for as long as he had remembered,Has been a tenant to the street,Rain and sunshine,Night and day! Usually he had all needed,To end the day,For he always believed,The next day would care for itself! But today, he had nothing,And seeing a phone hanging loosely,Decided to take it...The robber! Thief! Thief! Bayo heard from a distance,And seeing a man run towards him,Reached for a stick,And stuck, Sola hard!“Bloody thief” Bayo mumbled,pinning Sola down,Till the crowd caught up with them,And happily, he went his wayWith his stolen money carefully tucked away!Abidemi Uberu

Bayo dreamed of fortune, Sola dreamed of survival… and neither knew whose day would go wrong first.

Yemipoet Creation

Yemipoet is an Instagram  page that organizes monthly and random poetry contest. Top 3 winner gets a cash prize. Yemipoet is registered  as Yemipoet Creation Company in Nigeria

Yemipoet Poetry Contest

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Yemipoet April Poetry Contest’26 A Picture Prompt Contest

Yemipoet March Poetry Contest’26 Theme: The Night I Stop...

Connecting Through Verse: How Yemipoet Fosters Community ...

Yemipoet February Poetry Contest 2026 Celebrates “Love Vo...

Yemipoet January Poetry Contest’26

Bayo dreamed of fortune, Sola dreamed of survival… and ne...