Olympic Rugby Sevens champion Aaron Grandidier-Nkanang has joined forces with global nonprofit publisher NABU to launch a literacy campaign putting culturally relevant, mother tongue books into the hands of children who need them most in Nigeria.
The partnership began with a landmark trip to Lagos, where Aaron personally launched his debut children's book and introduced the campaign to communities, schools, and educators across the country.
Aaron Grandidier-Nkanang reading his book to children in Lagos, Nigeria
At the heart of the project is Aaron's children's book, Go Akpan — a story rooted in perseverance, identity, and the belief that every child, regardless of language, background, or circumstance, has what it takes to succeed. The book is published in English and Ibibio, reflecting Aaron's Akwa Ibom heritage, with translations into Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba underway, ensuring children are not just reading words, but connecting with a story told in the language of their home.
"I know what it feels like to be counted out," said Aaron. "This book is my way of telling children: don't give up. Your dreams are valid. Together with NABU, we want every child in Nigeria to see themselves in the stories they read."
For the rugby community, Aaron's journey from Nigeria to Olympic gold has always carried something deeper than sport. This project is an extension of that, a chance for fans and supporters to stand behind one of the game's most compelling stories, and to help turn it into something that outlasts any medal.
The campaign is open for public support now on GoFundMe. Every contribution directly funds the translation, printing, and distribution needed to reach children in Nigeria's most underserved communities.
Support the Campaign: https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-champion-comes-home-NABU
About NABU
NABU is a global nonprofit publisher working to close the literacy gap by providing children with free, high-quality, culturally relevant books in their mother tongue. Through digital access, local creator ecosystems, and community programs, NABU is reaching millions of young readers across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.
Read free books: https://read.nabu.org
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