Literary Powerhouses Ope Adedeji & Daniel Orubo Curate Zikoko's Anticipated Love Anthology

A new anthology titled “Nigerians Are Not Normal About Love” has been announced, born from a collaboration between Daniel Orubo, Ope Adedeji Zikoko, Big Cabal Media, and Ankara Press, the commercial imprint of Cassava Republic Press. This collection draws its inspiration from Zikoko’s popular and fan-favourite ‘Love Life’ series, which has resonated widely with audiences. The anthology is slated for publication in January 2027 and is meticulously curated and edited by seasoned creative writer Ope Adedeji and editor Daniel Orubo, promising a unique exploration of love.

The essence of the anthology lies in its ability to transform real-life interviews into vivid and engaging stories that intricately trace the strange yet tender choreography of love within contemporary Nigeria. Readers can anticipate a diverse array of narratives, including stories of lovers who first meet in university lecture halls or at lively, chaotic birthday parties during 'Detty December'. The collection delves into the heart of break-ups unfolding amidst Lagos gridlock, long-distance goodbyes whispered over late-night WhatsApp calls, and the complexities of situationships. It also explores themes of second chances, the nuances of asexual intimacy, the endurance of long marriages, quiet betrayals, and sudden, profound devotion, capturing the multifaceted nature of human connection.

At once funny, intimate, and unsparing, “Nigerians Are Not Normal About Love” promises to capture a broad spectrum of Nigerian intimacies. These relationships are shaped by modern influences such as dating apps, the pressures of economic precarity, the dynamics of migration, the role of faith, and the significant societal expectations of loving in a place with strong opinions about how one should navigate personal relationships. Boluwatito “Tito” Sanusi, Assistant Editor at Ankara Press, who acquired the world rights, expressed her excitement, stating, “This anthology is a celebration of our capacity to love — even when it’s messy. I cannot wait for readers to see themselves in these stories.” Daniel Orubo, co-editor, added, “The original Love Life series began as a way to explore the layered shades of love. This book takes that further, reimagining beloved episodes and introducing new stories through some of Nigeria’s most exciting storytellers. I’m excited for readers to discover new voices — and perhaps recognise their own stories too.” Co-editor Ope Adedeji also highlighted the transformative power of storytelling: “These stories gather the beauty and contradictions of loving, living and leaving into one place. They remind us that our love stories — in all their complexity — deserve to be told.”

The confirmed contributors to this highly anticipated anthology include Ani Kayode Somtochukwu, Nicole Asinugo, Mowa Badmos, Edwin Okolo, Chinonso Nzeh, Kanyinsola Olorunnisola, Mariam Sule, Jeffrey Jude, Aisha Bello, and Franklyn Usouwa. Ankara Press, the new commercial imprint from Cassava Republic, is dedicated to bringing readers a wide range of genres, from swoon-worthy romance and edge-of-your-seat thrillers to epic fantasy, bold horror, and insightful nonfiction. Operating across a global landscape from Lagos to Los Angeles, Kingston to Kigali, Ankara Press is committed to publishing stories that reflect the full diversity of human experience, specifically championing voices and perspectives that have been historically underrepresented. Beyond publishing books, the imprint also focuses on building community through live events, conversation cards, and real-life experiences that bring readers and writers together in vibrant, full colour. Ankara Press is scheduled to officially launch in Summer 2026.