A young Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Umeh, has shared vivid experiences of secondary school life in her latest book, titled ‘Ijanikin, My Journey to College’.

The author began writing at 13 when she debuted her first book, ‘The Twins of Ihazi’. Ms Umeh said she wanted to become the next legendary writer, like Chimamanda Adichie. She described ‘Ijanikin’ as a blend of autobiography and fiction.

The book reflects her personal experiences at Federal Government College, Ijanikin, Lagos, in an interview in Abuja on Saturday. The young author said she chose to write about her journey to college because it was adventurous.

Recalling her daily life in college, Ms Umeh said she learnt to “flow with the tide,” adding that she also had low moments, during which she felt like giving up.

Ms Umeh added, “I really wanted to run home at some point. In a unity college, you meet people from different backgrounds, who do not share your ideals or beliefs. Many times I felt broken, but I always got encouragement from my mother, who always said, ‘Never give up.’”

The author stated that readers of the book Ijanikin will gain a better understanding of the school life of students, especially those commuting in Lagos.

“Every child deserves encouragement to keep going; never underestimate any student, because every child has potential,” she noted.

According to her, recalling the challenges of her school life can be both hurtful and funny; however, writing a book to tell her story is ultimately rewarding.

Meanwhile, Ms Umeh spoke about the impact of transportation on access to education for schoolchildren and called for better support for learners.

“Even though I was a boarder, I had friends who were day students. They spent huge sums of money coming to school, and often, they were absent because they could not afford transport. 

“The government could set up an initiative for free transportation of school children to enhance access to school for many students who want to attend distant schools but get discouraged after trekking long hours,” she said

The author also appealed to policymakers to create an enabling environment that allows every Nigerian child to access basic education.

She said that the project, which took nearly three years to complete, is her heartfelt call to support the education and well-being of every child in Nigeria.

(NAN)