The February 2025 edition of the Orange Poetry Live Show – iMi Poetry Slam
was a spectacular celebration of spoken word, artistry, and storytelling. Held at Café One Abuja, the event brought together poets, creatives, and literary enthusiasts from across the country and beyond, reinforcing the power of poetry as a tool for cultural and social expression.
The night was filled with electrifying performances, passionate storytelling, and deep emotional resonance. The theme, “Echoes of Place – Stories of Belonging, Borders, and Becoming,” inspired thought-provoking poetry that explored identity, migration, and the power of home.
The iMi Poetry Slam, a highlight of the evening, saw spoken word artists battle through three intense rounds, judged based on Quality of Poem, Performance/Stage Presence, and Alignment with the Theme. The winners of the night were:
🥇 First Prize Winner (₦150,000): Munachi Okafor (Abuja)
🥈 Second Prize Winner (₦100,000): Abdulrazaq Salihu (Kuje, Abuja)
🥉 Third Prize Winner (₦50,000): Obinna Melody (Zuba, Abuja)
🎖 Wild Card Prize Winner (₦50,000 – Best Virtual Contestant): Jochebed Peace Airede (Abuja, Nigeria)
Each winner showcased immense talent, using poetry to convey compelling narratives that captivated the audience and judges alike.
Special Highlights & Performances
The event featured musical interludes from guest artists REEF and Nimmo, adding a rhythmic flair to the evening. The presence of esteemed judges, including Jaypee, Iyanu Adebiyi, and other renowned poetry figures, ensured a fair and high-quality competition.
Café One, the host partner powered by Sterling Bank, provided attendees with an exclusive opportunity to onboard with Sterling Bank, reinforcing their commitment to empowering creatives and entrepreneurs.
The Orange Poetry Live Show continues to be a platform for celebrating voices, empowering artists, and strengthening the poetry community. The success of this edition paves the way for even more engaging and impactful editions in the future.
