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<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.

<blockquote>If this isn’t love, then why do we hurt each other and care so deeply at the same time? Why does our closeness feel dangerous, and our distance unbearable?</blockquote>‎If this isn’t love, ‎why do my eyes burn when he’s hurting, ‎as if his pain found a home inside me? ‎ ‎Why do I miss him loudly ‎on the days he is far away ‎yet the moment we are close, ‎we argue like two people ‎who care too much ‎and don’t know where to put it? ‎ ‎If this isn’t love, ‎why does he check on me in quiet ways, ‎doing things that cost him comfort, ‎time, even money, ‎then shrug it off and say, ‎“I’m just being nice.” ‎ ‎Why does he distance himself ‎the moment my heart leans toward him, ‎as if kindness is allowed, ‎but feeling is too dangerous?<figure id="figure-ghx1j64ifkmk5xm5gw"><img id="ghx1j64ifkmk5xm5gw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26esmfgb9DPhTGeP05gnHe4NMq6DtnK83yS6ippNjEEQxbZlUyLZbfrrKPia0fYn.jpg" alt="Two hearts. One fear. Is this love? @yemipoet" title="Two hearts. One fear. Is this love? @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="Love " data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26esmfgb9DPhTGeP05gnHe4NMq6DtnK83yS6ippNjEEQxbZlUyLZbfrrKPia0fYn.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Love</figcaption></figure> ‎And why do I pretend not to see ‎the softness in his eyes, ‎because admitting it ‎might break the little friendship ‎we are both terrified to lose? ‎ ‎If this isn’t love, ‎then what do you call two people ‎who care in secret, ‎hurt in silence, ‎and pull back just when everything ‎almost becomes real? ‎ ‎What do you call two hearts ‎that move around each other ‎like eclipses ‎close enough to turn the world dark, ‎yet never brave enough to touch? ‎ ‎What do you call two hearts ‎that beat toward each other ‎but step away at the same time, ‎because the truth might cost ‎the one thing holding them together? ‎ ‎If this isn’t love, ‎then why does it feel ‎like we are always one breath away ‎from saying everything ‎and one fear away ‎from saying nothing at all? ‎ ‎_Halima Abu &nbsp; &nbsp;

If This Isn’t Love‎

<blockquote>Theme: Poetic Letter to Self – My Creative Journey of 2025</blockquote>The Yemipoet December Poetry Contest closed the year on a reflective note, inviting poets to look inward and write honest poetic letters to themselves. Through this theme, poets reflected on their creative journeys in 2025, highlighting their growth, struggles, wins, losses, gratitude, and hopes for the future.The theme, Poetic Letter to Self: My Creative Journey of 2025, encouraged sincerity, vulnerability, self-awareness, and emotional depth. Participants were required to express their stories within a 120 to 150-word limit.The contest was officially announced on December 1st, 2025, and submissions closed on December 10th, 2025. By the end of the submission period, a total of 299 entries were received from poets across different backgrounds, making it one of the most participated in contests of the year.<h3>Submission Process </h3>All entries were submitted through the official website, www.yemipoetproduction.comAn optional submission requirement allowed poets to convert their entries into carousel posts, share them on Instagram, and collaborate with @yacsofoundation after completing their initial submission through the website.Evaluation and Winners Selection&nbsp; Entries were carefully reviewed based on authenticity and emotional depth. Thirty outstanding entries were shortlisted as the Top 30 winners. From these, five poets emerged as the Top 5 winners. <blockquote>Top 5 Winners Spotlight</blockquote>Faith OkaforIkechukwu SelinaHoosen ChristianahKolajo ZainabAlimat Abu<figure id="figure-j55r4ktjbnmk5wzov9"><img id="j55r4ktjbnmk5wzov9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36jy99URNWBXkMhqjgHCSHm85Be001t3POOQgigCqHcTdEmRbrtoIgsd4zh2TlOA.jpg" alt="We present our winners" title="We present our winners" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="December Contest Winners" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36jy99URNWBXkMhqjgHCSHm85Be001t3POOQgigCqHcTdEmRbrtoIgsd4zh2TlOA.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">December Contest Winners</figcaption></figure><blockquote><h3>What was originally planned as a Top 4 expanded to a Top 5, following the generous support of an anonymous donor who added an extra ₦25,000 to the initial award announced.&nbsp;</h3></blockquote>Winners AwardA total cash prize of ₦125,000 was shared equally among the Top 5 winners.AppreciationWe 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 December Poetry Contest a success. Your words mattered.&nbsp;Special thanks to the YACSO Foundation for the continued support and partnership.<blockquote>See you in the next edition</blockquote>..............Compiled by&nbsp; Adetule O. Adetutu&nbsp;

Yemipoet December Poetry Contest’25

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

Blog

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...

If This Isn’t Love‎

Yemipoet December Poetry Contest’25