ANA Celebrates Late Mamman Jiya Vatsa on 85th Posthumous Birthday

ANA CELEBRATES LATE MAMMAN JIYA VATSA ON 85TH POSTHUMOUS BIRTHDAY

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has paid glowing tribute to the late Major General Mamman Jiya Vatsa on the occasion of his 85th posthumous birthday. 

In a statement jointly signed by the ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dr. Joan Oji, the association described Vatsa as a rare national treasure whose immeasurable contributions to Nigerian literature continue to resonate deeply within the literary community.

ANA noted that the late Vatsa, a soldier, poet, cultural icon, and benefactor of the association, holds an enduring place of honour in the hearts of Nigerian writers. His remarkable generosity and vision led to the establishment of the Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village in Mpape, Abuja, now the vibrant and permanent home of ANA and a flourishing centre for literary development.

At the recently concluded 44th ANA International Convention, Vatsa’s legacy came alive through the performance of a specially curated play titled “Tori Don Geti Bow Leg – The Vatsa Story,” written by Denja Abdullahi. Staged at the Chinua Achebe International Conference Centre, the production highlighted lesser-known aspects of Vatsa’s life, revealing his courage, artistic spirit, and unwavering dedication to nurturing Nigeria’s literary landscape. The play left a profound emotional impact on attendees, with many describing it as both enlightening and deeply moving.

Directed by Oko Owi Ocho Afrika, the performance was widely acclaimed as one of the most memorable moments of the convention, which took place from October 30 to November 2, 2025. ANA emphasised that the convention not only celebrated contemporary literary achievements but also served as a powerful remembrance of Vatsa’s lasting influence and the enduring power of his vision for writers across the nation.

In marking his 85th posthumous birthday, ANA reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Vatsa’s legacy and upholding the ideals he championed—creativity, courage, community, and service to humanity. The association called on governments, cultural institutions, and the general public to continue honouring literary icons like Vatsa, whose contributions remain foundational to the growth and unity of Nigerian authorship.

Signed:

BM Nagidi (ANA PRO North)