Nigerian author and journalist Tomi Falade has taken Nigerian historical stories and contemporary literature to an international audience at the 2026 Helsinki Book Fair in Finland, where her books attracted interest from Finnish readers and members of the Nigerian diaspora.
Falade attended the fair alongside a delegation of Nigerian creatives following an invitation from AFAES ry, a Helsinki-based multicultural non-profit organisation. The exhibition, held at the Messukeskus Exhibition Centre from October 22 to 25, featured literature, visual art and traditional crafts, giving visitors an opportunity to experience different aspects of African culture.
At Stand 7f118, Falade presented four of her books, including ỌLỌ́BÙN: Matriarch of Ondo, Mother of Legacy, Orompotoniyun: 12 Nights For A Crown, Alayemore: The Twice-Crowned King and Dates From Hell.
The first three titles explore Nigerian history through dramatic storytelling, while Dates From Hell offers a collection of contemporary prose.
Speaking about the reception, Falade said she initially had concerns about how her English-language books would appeal to visitors who did not speak English. However, she was encouraged by the interest shown by Finnish readers, some of whom requested to purchase the digital editions available on Amazon.
She also disclosed that her sister, Oluwafunmilayo Falade, was in discussions with Finnish publishers about producing translated editions of the books to reach a wider audience.
The author said the experience reinforced her belief that African stories can find readers beyond the continent when they are presented in ways that preserve their cultural identity.
Before the book fair, Falade also participated in a diplomatic event organised by the Council of Moroccans in Finland at the International School of Vantaa on Wednesday, October 21.
She joined a panel discussion on the theme, “The Cultural Dimensions of Regional Development in Africa,” alongside representatives from Morocco, Finland and the Middle East. Her contribution focused on the role of culture in promoting sustainable development across Africa.
Other members of the Nigerian delegation at the book fair included London-based Nollywood filmmaker and playwright Christopher Nnodim Iheuwa, who presented his work, The Quest.
Oluwafunmilayo Falade, a lawyer, professional editor and digital publishing strategist, also supported the delegation, while Nigerian visual artist Abolore Sobayo showcased his artworks.
The exhibition was organised with the support of AFAES ry and its team led by Fatima Usman. It provided an opportunity for Nigerian writers and artists to introduce their work to new audiences and strengthen cultural connections between Nigeria and Finland.
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