LAGOS, Nigeria — Google has partnered with Slum2School Africa and a group of Nigerian creatives to unveil “Stories from Our Home,” a culturally themed colouring book designed to support learning among children in underserved communities.
Okay News reports that the initiative will see 1,000 copies of the book distributed to primary school pupils, addressing a persistent shortage of basic creative learning materials such as colouring books and crayons in many Nigerian classrooms.
The project blends technology with storytelling, using Google Gemini to transform African folklore into print-ready line art. The creative process brought together notable contributors including Broda Shaggi, Falz, and Layi Wasabi, who shared cultural stories and memories during an Imagination Workshop.
The artwork was later refined and published by Inked Memory to meet child-focused educational standards.
Speaking on the initiative, Otto Orondaam, Founder of Slum2School Africa, highlighted the deeper role of storytelling in early education.
“At Slum2School Africa, we have always believed that education is the most powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty,” he said.
He added that access to stories and creative materials plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s identity and future.
“Stories from Our Home is an extension of everything we stand for, ensuring that every child, no matter where they are born, has access to the resources and the identity that will shape their future.”
The book was formally unveiled at the Slum2School Innovation Hub in Lekki, Lagos, where children participated in interactive reading sessions. Google West Africa Director Olumide Balogun opened the event by reading a story themed around Nigeria’s rivers.
Guest readers Nancy Isime and Bisola Aiyeola also engaged the children with stories celebrating Nigerian heritage, including tales of the Walls of Benin and Queen Moremi Ajasoro.
Reflecting on his involvement, Broda Shaggi, whose real name is Samuel Animashaun Perry, spoke about the personal significance of the initiative.
“I know what it feels like to grow up without these things,” he said.
“I know what it means when a child does not have the basic tools that others take for granted. That experience never leaves you, and it is why I am committed to doing whatever I can to make sure young people today do not have to go through what I went through. Being part of this project, and seeing 1,000 packs go into the hands of these children, means everything to me.”
Each beneficiary received a “Dream Pack” containing the colouring book, crayons, notebooks, pencils, and educational games, aimed at encouraging creative play and improving foundational skills such as focus, coordination, and imagination.
