Evaluating ANA's Progress Under Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi

EVALUATING ANA’S PROGRESS UNDER DR USMAN OLADIPO AKANBI

ANA Media Team

Since his election as President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Dr Usman Oladipo Akanbi has demonstrated a purposeful and strategic approach to leadership, anchored in strengthening the Association’s institutional framework and expanding its cultural influence. His tenure has been marked by a commitment to building robust systems, fostering inclusivity, and enhancing ANA’s contribution to national literary development.

A signature achievement of Dr Akanbi’s presidency has been the establishment and successful implementation of the Ken Saro-Wiwa Writers Residency. Named after the iconic Nigerian writer and activist, the residency has provided Nigerian authors with dedicated time and space to create, reflect, and engage with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. By institutionalising this residency, Dr Akanbi has reinforced ANA’s role in nurturing literary talent and honouring Nigeria’s rich literary heritage.

Another noteworthy accomplishment under Dr Akanbi’s leadership is the ANA Book Party, a quarterly event that celebrates the creative achievements of writers. By creating a platform where authors can showcase their works, connect with readers, and engage with publishers and the media, the Book Party has enhanced the visibility of Nigerian literature and strengthened networks within the literary community.

Under Dr Akanbi, the Mbari Quarterly Discourse has evolved into a respected forum for critical literary and cultural dialogue. These quarterly gatherings provide writers, scholars, and literary enthusiasts with a space for in-depth discussions on contemporary literary issues, cultural trends, and national affairs. The discourse has helped elevate literary criticism and intellectual engagement within ANA and beyond.

Recognising the interconnectedness of artistic expressions, Dr Akanbi expanded ANA’s cultural reach through the Mbari Arts Exhibition. This visual arts showcase has brought together writers and visual artists, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and enriching Nigeria’s cultural ecosystem. The exhibition has also broadened public appreciation of the arts and positioned ANA as a multidisciplinary cultural advocate.

The ANA 2025 Convention, convened under Dr Akanbi’s stewardship, stands out as a defining moment of his presidency. Bringing together writers, cultural advocates, policymakers, and stakeholders from across Nigeria and the diaspora, the convention provided a platform for high-level discussions, professional development workshops, book presentations, and policy dialogues. The event showcased ANA’s capacity to convene large-scale engagements that advance the literary arts.

Other initiatives include a Holiday Literary Bootcamp for secondary school students, as well as sustained advocacy on critical issues affecting Nigerians through press releases. The Association also collaborated with other stakeholders in efforts to have Abuja recognised as a UNESCO City of Literature and worked with PAWA to organise the maiden edition of the World Organisation of Writers Congress at the Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, Mpape, Abuja.

Among the advocacies that yielded tangible results was the call for a posthumous pardon for the late Major-General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, a celebrated poet and writer who was executed in 1986 following allegations of involvement in a coup plot. Prior to the grant of the pardon, the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), under the leadership of Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, formally made the appeal during the second-quarter session of the ANA Mbari Series held in June. The session was convened under the theme, “Mbari Through the Eyes of the Founding Fathers.”

In October of the same year, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu granted a posthumous pardon to the late Mamman Vatsa. The Association described the gesture as a “commendable act of national healing” and a significant recognition of Vatsa’s enduring contributions to Nigerian arts and literature. In addition, the Association has strongly condemned the recent surge in killings and the worsening insecurity currently plaguing the country, calling for decisive and sustained action to safeguard lives and restore public confidence.

A critical aspect of Dr Akanbi’s leadership has been the fostering of reconciliation and unity among members. In response to past internal divisions and disagreements, he initiated inclusive dialogues and conflict-resolution processes that restored trust and strengthened relationships within the Association. This emphasis on unity has helped create a more cohesive and collaborative ANA, better positioned to pursue its mission.

Dr Akanbi’s administration also sustained the Yusuf Ali Reading Awareness Campaign, aimed at promoting a reading culture among young Nigerians. By partnering with schools, libraries, and community organisations, the campaign has encouraged early literacy, expanded access to reading materials, and fostered a generation of informed and engaged readers. This initiative underscores ANA’s commitment to community engagement and national development beyond professional literary circles.

In terms of governance reform, Dr Akanbi has prioritised transparency and accountability, particularly through improvements to ANA’s accounting and electoral systems. By instituting rigorous financial reporting standards, regular audits, and transparent budgeting processes, he has enhanced confidence in the Association’s stewardship of resources. Reforms to the electoral system—such as clearer nomination procedures, strengthened oversight, and fairer election processes—have promoted democratic participation and reinforced the legitimacy of leadership transitions.

Overall, Dr Usman Oladipo Akanbi’s performance as President of the Association of Nigerian Authors reflects transformative leadership that balances institutional strengthening, programme innovation, and cultural advocacy. From the Ken Saro-Wiwa Writers Residency and the ANA Book Party to governance reforms in accounting and elections, his tenure has broadened ANA’s relevance and influence. As the Association looks ahead, the systems, programmes, and unity cultivated under his leadership promise sustained growth for Nigerian literature and expanded opportunities for writers nationwide.