Foluke Falayi brings ‘Unbending Steel’ to life at UNESCO World Book Day

By Isa Isawade

Prolific author, Foluke Sijuwola Falayi, on 23rd April brought ‘Unbending Steel’ to life at the 2026 International UNESCO World Book and Copyright Day event in Lagos.

The novel traces Tomobi, a gritty young boy thrown into the chaos of urban Nigeria. Life knocks him down, but Tomobi won’t snap. Like steel under pressure, he bends — but never breaks.

It’s a story that hit home. Unbending Steel has been adopted by several state ministries of education across Nigeria, earning its place on school reading lists. At its core, the book is a love letter to the stubborn hope and raw potential of the Nigerian and African child.

Falayi is no newcomer. With over 20 titles to her name, she’s become a powerhouse in African literature. Her works include Rainy Day, Ada in Port Harcourt, The Last Penny, The Reverend’s Daughter, Sam Goes to College, Trouble in the Exam and Bond.

others are A Night at Edet’s House, The Pride of Parents, The Slaves in the Palace and many more stories that have shaped both young and old readers for years.

The event, organized by the World Literacy Foundation and Sun Books, put Falayi’s work at center stage — reminding the audience why African stories, told by African voices, still matter.