ANA Congratulates Prof. Razinat Mohammed On Her Birthday

ANA CONGRATULATES PROF. RAZINAT MOHAMMED ON HER BIRTHDAY

By ANA Media Team

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated Prof. Razinat Talatu Mohammed on the joyous occasion of her birthday. 

This was contained in a press statement jointly issued by the President of ANA, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and Dame Joan Oji, PhD. 

The Association described the celebrant as a distinguished scholar, accomplished writer, and a towering figure in contemporary Nigerian literary scholarship.

Prof. Razinat Talatu Mohammed is widely celebrated as a renowned feminist literary critic, award-winning author, and influential academic with numerous publications to her credit. According to ANA, her intellectual depth and scholarly consistency have earned her an enviable place within African literary studies. Her work continues to shape critical conversations around gender, identity, and representation in literature.

The Association noted that her journey in the world of literature has been both remarkable and inspiring. Through her extensive research and writings, Prof. Mohammed has significantly impacted the study and understanding of African literature, particularly in feminist literary criticism and gender studies. Her critical insights and innovative perspectives have enriched scholarly discourse and strengthened literary scholarship in Nigeria and beyond.

ANA further highlighted her creative accomplishments, especially her award-winning novels, Habiba and The Travails of a First Wife. Habiba was a finalist for the ANA Prize for Prose in 2013, while The Travails of a First Wife, published in 2015, received commendation for its thematic depth and narrative strength. Beyond her novels, she has contributed to notable anthologies such as Camouflage: The Best of Contemporary Writings from Nigeria, Fireflies: An Anthology of New Nigerian Poetry, and Pyramids: An Anthology of Poems from Northern Nigeria, with her works published both locally and internationally.

In the academic sphere, Prof. Mohammed’s contributions are equally outstanding. Her articles and book chapters have appeared in reputable international outlets, including the African Literature Today published in Suffolk, UK, and by Routledge. She is the author of notable scholarly works such as Intra-gender Relations between Women: A Study of Nawal El-Saadawi and Buchi Emecheta’s Novels, published by Lambert Academic Publication, Germany, and Female Representation in Nigerian Literature, among others. Her expertise has also been recognized through her service as a two-time judge for the Nigeria Prize for Literature in 2015 and 2017, as well as her role as Chief Adjudicator for the annual Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange since 2013.

The Association concluded by affirming that Prof. Razinat Talatu Mohammed’s groundbreaking work in feminist literary criticism, gender studies, and creative writing has elevated the profile of African literature and inspired generations of writers and scholars.

ANA wished her many more years of sound health, intellectual vitality, and continued service to literature and humanity.

ANA Mourns Veteran Writer, Statesman Bello Musa Dankano

 ANA MOURNS VETERAN WRITER, STATESMAN BELLO MUSA DANKANO

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of one of its distinguished members, Bello Musa Dankano, former Secretary to the State Government of Katsina State, who died at the age of 78. 

According to ANA, His death represents a significant loss to the Nigerian literary community and the nation at large.

This was contained in a press statement jointly signed by the ANA President, Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Joan Oji, PhD 

The association described Dankano as a devoted writer, accomplished administrator, and patriot whose life was marked by integrity, intellectual depth, and unwavering commitment to national development.

Born in Malumfashi, Katsina State, Dankano dedicated much of his professional life to public service. He began his career as a primary school teacher and rose steadily through the ranks to become Secretary to the State Government. He later served as Director in federal ministries, where he distinguished himself through diligence, discipline, and exemplary leadership.

Beyond public administration, Dankano sustained a vibrant literary career. Early exposure to Hausa literature and illustration nurtured his creative instincts, which matured into fiction writing in the 1990s. His literary works consistently engaged Nigeria’s socio-political realities, reflecting deep concern for ethical governance and social responsibility.

His debut novel, A Season of Locusts (1999), was followed by Petrol Station (2004), My Cousins and I (2005), and The Last Caravan and Other Stories (2006). Through these works, he established himself as one of the major literary voices from Northern Nigeria, contributing meaningfully to contemporary Nigerian fiction.

Dankano’s fiction was characterized by humour, satire, and social realism. His narratives confronted themes such as corruption, electoral malpractice, and the contradictions of Nigerian politics. Influenced by renowned writers including Abubakar Imam and Chinua Achebe, he wrote primarily in English to reach a broader readership while preserving the cultural nuances of his heritage. Despite the challenges of the publishing landscape, he remained steadfast in his belief in literature as a vehicle for truth, ethical reflection, and social transformation.

The Association of Nigerian Authors extended heartfelt condolences to his family, the government and people of Katsina State, and the entire Nigerian literary community. 

The association affirmed that his legacy would endure through his writings and the many lives he inspired, and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.

ANA Greets Christians, Muslims on Lent, Ramadan

 ANA GREETS CHRISTIANS, MUSLIMS ON LENT, RAMADAN

By ANA Media Team

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has greeted Christians and Muslims across Nigeria as they commence the sacred seasons of Lent and Ramadan, describing the periods as significant moments of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, sacrifice, and renewed commitment to faith, humanity, and peaceful coexistence.

This was contained in a press statement jointly issued by the ANA President and General Secretary, Usman Oladipo Akanbi and Dame Joan Oji, PhD.

The Association observed that Lent and Ramadan, though rooted in different religious traditions, share enduring values of compassion, charity, humility, and reconciliation. According to ANA, these shared ideals are critical to national healing and unity, particularly at a time when collective understanding, ethical responsibility, and mutual respect are most needed in society.

ANA called on writers, artists, and cultural practitioners to draw inspiration from the lessons of these holy periods by promoting literature and creative expressions that foster dialogue, tolerance, and empathy among the nation’s diverse peoples. The Association reiterated that literature remains a powerful instrument for bridging divides and nurturing a sustainable culture of peace.

The Association further encouraged adherents to use the season to pray for the progress, stability, and prosperity of the country, while extending hands of fellowship to neighbours irrespective of religious or ethnic differences. Acts of kindness, generosity to the vulnerable, and commitment to justice, it noted, are practical ways of translating faith into nation-building.

ANA wished all Christians and Muslims a spiritually fulfilling Lenten and Ramadan experience and expressed hope that the lessons of sacrifice, renewal, and love embodied in these seasons would continue to guide citizens toward mutual respect, national unity, and a more humane and harmonious society.

ANA Constitutes Committees To Celebrate 80th Birthday of Prof. Femi Osofisan

ANA CONSTITUTES COMMITTEES TO CELEBRATE 80TH BIRTHDAY OF PROF. FEMI OSOFISAN

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has announced the constitution of planning committees for the celebration of the 80th birthday of its Chairman, Board of Trustees, Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan, scheduled for June 16, 2026. 

The milestone is being marked with a series of literary and cultural activities designed to honour the distinguished playwright, scholar, and cultural activist whose work has shaped modern African dramaturgy.

In a press statement jointly issued by ANA President, Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji PhD, the Association described the celebration as a national literary moment deserving of broad institutional collaboration and intellectual reflection. The statement noted that the committees will provide leadership, coordination, and overall supervision for the successful planning and execution of the anniversary programmes in Ibadan and Abuja.

According to ANA, the two-city structure is intended to reflect Professor Osofisan’s wide academic, theatrical, and cultural influence across Nigeria and beyond. The Ibadan and Abuja committees will work in synergy to deliver events that capture the depth of his artistic philosophy, scholarship, and mentorship of generations of writers and dramatists.

The Ibadan Event Committee will be chaired by Taslim Abiola Layonu, with Rufus Kehinde serving as Vice Chairman and Wole Adedoyin as Secretary. Other members include Phil Nwoko, Tunde Awosanmi, Freeman Okosun, and Busayo Fakunle.

The Abuja Event Committee will be chaired by Kyuka Lilymjok, with Ngozi Atululu-Ebulum serving as Secretary. Members of the committee are Chukwudi Eze, Umar Yogiza Jr., Esther Adelana, and Hussain Zaguru AbdulQadir.

The central commemorative event, titled Literary Celebration Marking the 80th Birthday of Emeritus Prof. Femi Osofisan, will take place in June 2026 in Ibadan. The gathering is expected to bring together writers, scholars, theatre practitioners, students, and cultural stakeholders for readings, stage performances, scholarly reflections, and tributes examining Osofisan’s enduring contributions to African theatre and critical discourse.

As part of the extended celebration, the September 2026 edition of the Mbari Lecture Series will be dedicated entirely to the eminent dramatist and will hold in the Federal Capital Territory. The lecture will critically engage his dramaturgy, ideological commitments, and pioneering innovations in adapting classical forms to African socio-political realities.

ANA also disclosed that it will collaborate with the Orpheus Foundation to publish a landmark Festschrift—a scholarly volume comprising essays, reflections, and critical studies that explore Osofisan’s life, works, and intellectual legacy across disciplines and generations.

In furtherance of its commitment to nurturing emerging voices, the Association will organise the Femi Osofisan @ 80 Playwriting Workshop, designed to mentor young dramatists in the aesthetics of socially engaged theatre, experimentation, and adaptation that define the celebrant’s body of work.

Complementing the workshop, a national playwriting competition will invite new dramatic works inspired by themes central to Osofisan’s oeuvre, including justice, resistance, community, and cultural memory. Winning entries will receive national recognition, with possibilities for staging and publication.

To document the breadth of his personal and professional influence, ANA will also publish a commemorative Tributes Book featuring messages, memoirs, essays, and artistic reflections from colleagues, former students, collaborators, and admirers across the world—ensuring that the legacy of Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan is preserved for future generations of scholars and artists.

ANA Announces Dates, Theme for 2026 International Convention in Abuja

ANA ANNOUNCES DATES, THEME FOR 2026 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION IN ABUJA

By ANA Media Team

The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has officially released the programme highlights for its 45th (2026) International Convention, reaffirming the association’s enduring commitment to the advancement of Nigerian literature and its global relevance.

The announcement was contained in a press statement issued by the Chairman of the ANA Convention Planning Committee and Vice President of ANA, Prof. Obari Gomba.

The convention is scheduled to hold from Thursday, 29th October to Sunday, 1st November 2026, at the serene Mamman Vatsa Writers' Village. The theme for the convention, “Nigerian Literature and the Place of Nigeria in the World,” reflects ANA’s resolve to interrogate the role of Nigerian writers in shaping cultural diplomacy, global narratives, and national identity.

Activities will commence on Thursday, 29th October 2026, with participants’ arrival and registration, followed by the traditional Festival of Life—a signature event celebrating literary creativity through readings, performances, and artistic expressions. This opening segment is designed to foster camaraderie and set the tone for the intellectual engagements ahead.

On Friday, 30th October 2026, registration will continue alongside the Opening Ceremony, which will formally declare the convention underway. The day will feature a Keynote Address by a distinguished scholar, practical workshops across genres and critical areas of writing, and the much-anticipated Convention Play, underscoring the dynamic relationship between literature and performance.

Proceedings on Saturday, 31st October 2026, will include the Annual General Meeting (AGM), where members will deliberate on policy, growth, and the future direction of the association. Additional workshops will hold during the day, culminating in a Dinner and Award Night at which winners of ANA’s prestigious literary prizes will be announced and celebrated.

NEC further directed that members must process convention payments strictly through their respective State Chapters. The early bird fee is Thirty Thousand Naira (₦30,000), covering participation and annual dues, while payments made after the deadline will attract a late fee of Forty-Five Thousand Naira (₦45,000). Participation entitles members to conference materials and access to the AGM.

Non-members are welcome to attend upon payment of Forty Thousand Naira (₦40,000) early bird or Fifty-Five Thousand Naira (₦55,000) late registration, which covers conference materials but excludes participation in the AGM. All such payments must also be routed through the nearest State Chapters, which are mandated to clearly classify such participants as non-members. For the avoidance of doubt, any individual not listed in the Revalidated Register shall be regarded as a non-member.

The deadline for early payment is 30th July 2026, while late registration closes on 30th September 2026.

All payments are to be made into the official ANA account domiciled with First Bank of Nigeria as follows:

Account Name: Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA)

Account Number: 2020543538

Bank Name: First Bank of Nigeria (FBN)

Evidence of payment must be submitted through State Chapters for proper documentation and accreditation.

ANA calls on writers, scholars, cultural advocates, and stakeholders within and outside Nigeria to prepare to participate in what promises to be a landmark gathering that will deepen conversations about Nigerian literature’s influence and Nigeria’s cultural standing in the global arena.

ANA Applauds Federal Government Over N1.2BN Copyright Levy, Restates Commitment To Authors' Welfare

 [2/15, 7:57 AM] Wole Adedoyin: ANA APPLAUDS FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OVER N1.2BN COPYRIGHT LEVY, RESTATES COMMITMENT TO AUTHORS’ WELFARE

By ANA Media Team

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has expressed profound appreciation to the Federal Government for the approval and release of N1.2 billion as the first tranche of the long-awaited copyright levy, describing the development as a landmark achievement in the recognition, protection, and monetization of intellectual property in Nigeria.

In a press statement jointly issued by ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji PhD, the Association noted that it is one of the beneficiaries of the disbursement by virtue of its membership in the Reproduction Rights Society of Nigeria (REPRONIG), the nation’s recognized Collective Management Organization for reprographic rights.

ANA commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for demonstrating visionary leadership through the approval and release of the fund, emphasizing that the payment signals a renewed national commitment to safeguarding the creative economy and ensuring that authors receive fair compensation for the use of their works.

The Association described the intervention as not merely financial support, but as a strong policy statement affirming that literary creativity and intellectual labour are indispensable to national development, cultural diplomacy, education, and the preservation of Nigeria’s diverse voices.

ANA also lauded the efforts of the Nigerian Copyright Commission under the leadership of Dr. John Asein for its steadfast advocacy, regulatory diligence, and sustained engagement with stakeholders that culminated in the successful implementation of the levy framework.

According to the Association, the release of this first tranche represents a turning point in the long struggle of Nigerian writers and publishers to institutionalize copyright remuneration and curb unauthorized reproduction of literary works across educational and commercial sectors.

It emphasized that the copyright levy is an internationally recognized mechanism designed to compensate authors for secondary uses of their works, particularly through photocopying, scanning, and digital reproduction—practices that have historically generated value without corresponding returns to creators.

ANA noted that the initiative strengthens the foundation for a more structured and transparent rights-management system in Nigeria, one capable of ensuring that creators are rewarded for their intellectual contributions while encouraging greater professionalism within the knowledge and publishing industries.

The Association further reiterated that the development aligns with global best practices in copyright administration, placing Nigeria on a stronger footing within the international creative ecosystem and reinforcing confidence among writers, publishers, and investors in the cultural sector.

ANA expressed optimism that sustained implementation of the levy will translate into measurable improvements in authors’ welfare, increased literary production, and renewed interest among young Nigerians to pursue writing as a viable and respected profession.

The Association therefore called for continued collaboration among government institutions, educational establishments, and industry stakeholders to ensure compliance, transparency, and the equitable distribution of royalties accruing from the use of protected works.

ANA concluded by affirming that this milestone is not an end but the beginning of a new era—one in which Nigerian authors are not only celebrated for shaping thought and culture, but are also justly rewarded for their labour, thereby strengthening the nation’s intellectual heritage and securing a sustainable future for generations of writers to come.

ANA Greets Khalid Imam On His 53rd Birthday

ANA GREETS KHALID IMAM ON HIS 53RD BIRTHDAY

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated Khalid Imam, Founder and Curator of All Poets Network, on the occasion of his 53rd birthday, celebrating his remarkable contributions to poetry, literary advocacy, and cultural development.

The felicitation was conveyed in a press statement jointly issued by ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, who commended Imam for his unwavering dedication to nurturing literary creativity and building platforms that support poets and writers within Nigeria and internationally.

ANA noted that Imam serves as Chairman, Board of Trustees of Poetry Renaissance Trust and was the pioneer Festival Director of the Nigeria Poetry Festival, where he has significantly advanced the visibility and appreciation of poetry as a dynamic art form and instrument of social engagement. Through All Poets Network International, he has fostered a thriving global community of poets and literary enthusiasts.

The Association further highlighted his participation in the 2017 literary exchange programme organised by the Wole Soyinka Foundation in Lebanon, describing him as a bilingual writer and multiple award-winning poet, playwright, and arts administrator whose works have been published across several continents.

ANA praised Imam’s authorship of over two dozen books in diverse genres, as well as his commitment to sharing numerous unpublished poems in both English and Hausa on social media platforms. The Association also recognised his editorial contributions to anthologies such as Corona Blues: A Bilingual Anthology of Nigerian Poetry, Kwaraption: An Engausa Poetry Anthology, and Tulu: A Multilingual Anthology of Northern Nigerian New Writings, wishing him continued good health and greater accomplishments in the years ahead.

ANA Announces Landmark Events To Honour Prof. Femi Osofisan At 80

 ANA ANNOUNCES LANDMARK EVENTS TO HONOUR PROF. FEMI OSOFISAN AT 80

By ANA Media Team

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has announced a series of landmark activities to celebrate the 80th birthday of eminent dramatist and scholar Femi Osofisan, whose contributions to literature and theatre have left an enduring imprint on Nigeria, Africa, and the global cultural landscape.

The announcement was contained in a press statement issued by the General Secretary of the Association, Dame Joan Oji, PhD, who noted that the celebration is intended to recognise a lifetime devoted to creative excellence, cultural engagement, and intellectual leadership.

The playwright, who will attain the milestone age in June 2026, is widely regarded as one of the most prolific voices in African dramaturgy—an accomplished playwright, poet, novelist, critic, actor, director, songwriter, and activist. He currently serves as Chairman of ANA’s Board of Trustees, continuing decades of commitment to the growth of Nigerian literature and the nurturing of younger generations of writers.

A distinguished academic, he taught Drama for many years at the University of Ibadan, where he mentored countless theatre practitioners, scholars, and cultural workers. Beyond the classroom, he has remained actively engaged in directing plays, writing creative and critical works, and contributing to national discourse through essays and newspaper columns.

With a creative output that includes more than sixty plays, several poetry collections, novels, and scholarly essays, his works have consistently explored themes of justice, resistance, history, and communal responsibility. His early recognition included winning the first ANA Literature Award in 1983 for Morountodun and Other Plays, followed by another major award for Yungba-Yungba and the Dance Contest in 1993, while his poetry collection Minted Coins earned both Commonwealth and national honours.

Over the decades, he has received numerous distinctions, including the Nigerian National Order of Merit in the Humanities and international recognition for his role in advancing literature as a vehicle for human rights, social critique, and cultural dialogue. His works have been staged and studied across continents, affirming his place among the foremost interpreters of African realities through theatre.

His cultural leadership has also extended to public service, including his tenure as General Manager and Chief Executive of the National Theatre, Lagos and as President of PEN Nigeria, where he championed artistic freedom and professional solidarity among writers.

A founding member of the editorial board of The Guardian, he has played a defining role in shaping literary journalism in Nigeria. Many of his dramatic works creatively reinterpret classical texts within African contexts, demonstrating his innovative fusion of global traditions with indigenous histories and performance aesthetics.

To honour this extraordinary legacy, ANA has scheduled a Grand Literary Celebration to be held in Ibadan in June 2026. The event will bring together writers, scholars, theatre practitioners, students, and cultural stakeholders for readings, stage performances, and scholarly reflections examining his enduring influence on African dramaturgy and critical thought.

Further commemorative activities will include a special edition of the Mbari Lecture Series in September 2026, as well as a collaborative Festschrift to be published with the Orpheus Foundation. The celebratory year will also feature a national playwriting competition, a mentorship workshop for emerging dramatists, and a commemorative tributes volume gathering reflections from colleagues, former students, and admirers around the world.

ANA described the Osofisan @ 80 celebration as more than a birthday observance, noting that it represents a national literary milestone and an opportunity to reaffirm the transformative power of art in society. 

The Association therefore called on its members, the academic community, creative professionals, and the general public to participate actively in the programmes lined up to celebrate a towering figure whose life’s work continues to inspire critical engagement, cultural pride, and artistic excellence.

ANA Celebrating an Icon @ 80: Programmes Unveiled In Honour of Prof. Femi Osofisan

 ANA CELEBRATING AN ICON @ 80: PROGRAMMES UNVEILED IN HONOUR OF PROF. FEMI OSOFISAN

Come June 2026, Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan will clock 80 years of age. Femi Osofisan is an internationally lauded playwright, scholar, poet, novelist, actor, director, songwriter, and activist, and currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA). 

He has had a distinguished academic career, having taught Drama at the University of Ibadan, where he mentored generations of theatre practitioners and scholars. Beyond academia, he has remained deeply engaged in directing plays, performing, writing reviews, poems, novels, and newspaper columns.

Osofisan has written and produced more than sixty plays, alongside five collections of poetry, four novels, and numerous essay collections. The very first ANA Literature Award in 1983 was conferred on him for Morountodun and Other Plays, while he later won another ANA award for drama with Yungba-Yungba and the Dance Contest in 1993. His poetry collection Minted Coins, published under the pseudonym Okinba Launko in 1987, won both the Regional Commonwealth Poetry Award for First Collection and the ANA Poetry Prize.

His long list of honours includes the Western Nigeria Broadcasting Service Prize for Independence Anniversary Essay, Officier de l’Ordre Nationale de Mérite (France, 1999), the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) in the Humanities (2004), the Fonlon-Nichols Prize for Literature and Human Rights (2006), and Fellowship of the Nigerian Academy of the Arts. He was also a finalist for the prestigious Neustadt International Prize for Literature in 2000.

Professor Osofisan has served the cultural sector in numerous capacities, including as General Manager and Chief Executive of the National Theatre, Lagos (1988–1990), President of PEN Nigeria (2004–2010), and drama consultant to national and international cultural initiatives such as MAMSER and the Cultural Olympiad linked to the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games. His works have been staged globally, and he has held teaching and research engagements in countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.

A founding member and literary editor of The Guardian newspaper’s pioneer editorial board, he also established CentreSTAGE–Africa and earlier edited the poetry chapbook Opon Ifa, which evolved into Opon Ifa Review. Among his prose works are Ma’ami, Abigail, Pirates of Hurt, and Cordelia, originally written as newspaper serials; Ma’ami was later adapted into a film in 2011. Many of his plays creatively reinterpret classical works, including Women of Owu (after Euripides’ Trojan Women) and Tegonni: An African Antigone.

In recognition of this towering legacy and his immense contributions to Nigerian, African, and global literature, the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has earmarked a series of landmark programmes to celebrate his 80th Birthday Anniversary.

HIGHLIGHTS OF ANA’S PLANNED ACTIVITIES FOR OSOFISAN @ 80

GRAND LITERARY CELEBRATION (JUNE 2026)

The central commemorative event, titled Literary Celebration Marking the 80th Birthday of Emeritus Prof. Femi Osofisan, will take place in June 2026 in Ibadan. The gathering will bring together writers, scholars, theatre practitioners, students, and cultural stakeholders for readings, performances, scholarly reflections, and tributes examining Osofisan’s enduring influence on African dramaturgy, literary scholarship, and cultural activism.

MBARI LECTURE SERIES (SEPTEMBER 2026 EDITION)

The September edition of the prestigious Mbari Lecture Series will be dedicated entirely to Professor Osofisan and will hold in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The lecture will critically engage his dramaturgy, ideological commitments, and innovations in adapting classical forms to African socio-political realities.

COLLABORATIVE FESTSCHRIFT PUBLICATION WITH ORPHEUS FOUNDATION

ANA, in collaboration with the Orpheus Foundation, will publish a landmark Festschrift—a scholarly volume of essays, reflections, and critical studies celebrating Osofisan’s life, works, and intellectual impact across disciplines.

FEMI OSOFISAN @ 80 PLAYWRITING WORKSHOP

To nurture emerging voices, ANA will organise a specialised playwriting workshop for young dramatists. The workshop will transmit Osofisan’s aesthetics of socially engaged theatre, experimentation, and adaptation, ensuring continuity of his artistic philosophy.

FEMI OSOFISAN @ 80 PLAYWRITING COMPETITION

A national playwriting competition will invite new dramatic works inspired by themes central to Osofisan’s oeuvre—justice, resistance, community, and cultural memory. Winning entries will receive recognition and possible staging opportunities.

TRIBUTES BOOK IN HONOUR OF PROF. FEMI OSOFISAN AT 80

A commemorative Tributes Book will assemble messages, essays, memoirs, and artistic reflections from colleagues, former students, collaborators, and admirers worldwide, capturing the personal and professional reach of the literary icon.

ANA describes the Osofisan @ 80 celebration not merely as a birthday observance but as a national literary milestone—an opportunity to honour a dramatist whose work consistently interrogates power, amplifies the voices of the marginalised, and demonstrates the transformative role of art in society.

Members of ANA, the academic community, theatre professionals, students, and the general public are encouraged to watch out for announcements and actively participate in the programmes lined up throughout the celebratory year, as Nigeria and the world salute one of Africa’s most prolific and influential men of letters.

Signed:

Dame Joan Oji PhD,

General Secretary 

Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA)

ANA Congratulates Dr. Cecilia Etchie On Her Birthday

ANA CONGRATULATES DR. CECILIA ETCHIE ON HER BIRTHDAY

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated Dr. Cecilia Etchie on the joyful occasion of her birthday, celebrating a life devoted to literature, creativity, and service to the arts. 

Described as a revered matriarch within the Association, Dr. Etchie has remained a steadfast and inspiring member of the Kwara State Chapter, where her influence continues to nurture generations of writers and artists.

The congratulatory message was contained in a press statement jointly issued by ANA President, Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Joan Oji, who commended her immense contributions to Nigerian literature and her longstanding commitment to mentoring emerging creative talents across the country.

Dr. Etchie’s academic journey reached a defining milestone when she earned her Ph.D. in Creative Arts from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 1984, an achievement that positioned her among the pioneering scholars in the discipline. Since then, she has sustained a vibrant intellectual and creative presence, contributing significantly to the growth of literary scholarship and artistic expression in Nigeria.

Over the decades, she has built an impressive body of work spanning children’s literature, young adult fiction, and fine arts, reflecting both versatility and a deep commitment to cultural education. The Association acknowledged her enduring legacy, noting that her writings—rich in moral insight and artistic depth—continue to engage young minds while preserving values that resonate across generations, and wished her many more years of health, happiness, and inspiring service to the literary community.

Nigerian Literature Loses a Titan - ANA Mourns Biodun Jeyifo

 NIGERIAN LITERATURE LOSES A TITAN — ANA MOURNS BIODUN JEYIFO

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Professor Emeritus Biodun Jeyifo, describing his death as a monumental loss to Nigerian literature, African scholarship, and the global intellectual community. 

The Association noted that his demise has created a profound vacuum in the world of literary criticism, cultural studies, and humanistic inquiry.

It would be recalled that ANA, in early January, joined other Nigerians and admirers across the world in celebrating Professor Jeyifo on the occasion of his 80th birthday, paying tribute to his immense contributions to literary scholarship and national cultural development. 

The Association stated that it is particularly painful that the celebration of such a remarkable milestone has been so swiftly followed by the news of his passing.

This was contained in a press statement jointly issued by the ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD, who described Professor Jeyifo as one of the most rigorous and influential voices in African literary criticism. They noted that his lifelong dedication to scholarship helped shape generations of writers, academics, and students within and beyond Nigeria.

Professor Jeyifo was widely recognised as a leading authority on the life and works of Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka. His seminal book, Wole Soyinka: Politics, Poetics and Postcolonialism, published by Cambridge University Press in 2004, earned international acclaim and several awards, further cementing his reputation as a foremost interpreter of African literature and postcolonial discourse.

Beyond his scholarly achievements, ANA emphasised that Professor Jeyifo was deeply committed to the growth of Nigerian literature, consistently engaging with writers, mentoring younger scholars, and contributing to critical conversations that strengthened the intellectual foundations of the nation’s literary tradition. His work combined analytical depth with a passionate belief in the social responsibility of literature.

The Association further described him as a bridge between generations and continents—an academic whose influence resonated globally yet remained firmly rooted in the cultural realities of Africa. His writings, teachings, and public engagements reflected clarity of thought, ideological courage, and an abiding commitment to justice, culture, and human dignity.

ANA extended its heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, students, and the entire literary and academic community, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul. The Association affirmed that Professor Biodun Jeyifo’s legacy will endure through his writings, his intellectual interventions, and the countless lives he inspired, assuring that his contributions will remain an indelible part of Nigeria’s literary history.

 

The Incomplete Works of Prof. Akachi Ezeigbo

THE INCOMPLETE WORKS OF PROF. AKACHI EZEIGBO

By ANA Media Team

As part of the Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi-led ANA Presidency’s initiative to archive and document the works of its members and distinguished Nigerian authors, below is a compiled list of the works of Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo.

Professor Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo is a renowned Nigerian author and educator whose published works span novels, poetry, short stories, children’s literature, essays, literary criticism, and journalism. 

She is a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Nigeria Prize for Literature.

CHILDREN’S BOOKS

Two of her children’s stories have been translated into Swahili and Xhosa. Her works include:

• The Buried Treasure (Junior African Writers Series), Oxford: Heinemann, 1992. Swahili translation: Hazina Iliyojikwa (Junior African Writers Series), Oxford: Heinemann, 1996.

• The Prize (Junior African Writers Series), Oxford: Heinemann, 1994.

• Alani the Troublemaker & Other Stories, Literamed Publications, 2003.

• Asa and the Little Stream, Literamed Publications, 2004.

• Whisker the Brave Cat, Literamed Publications, 2005.

• Red One and the Wizard of Mula, Literamed Publications, 2005.

• Snake Child and Star Baby, Literamed Publications, 2006.

• Ezezemale and the Tree Spirits, Literamed Publications, 2006.

• Sunshine, the Miracle Child, Literamed Publications, 2006.

• Heart Songs (Poems), Ibadan: Kraft Books Ltd., 2009.

• Clouds and Other Poems for Children, Ibadan: University Press Ltd., 2009.

• Ako the Storyteller (Children’s novel), Ikeja: Lantern Books, 2009.

• Zoba and His Gang (Children’s novel), Ikeja: Lantern Books, 2009.

• Waiting for Dawn (Poems), Ibadan: Kraft Books Ltd., 2010.

• The Slave Girl (Children’s novel), Lagos: Eph Communications Ltd., 2010.

• The Dwarf’s Story (Children’s novel), Lagos: Eph Communications Ltd., 2010.

• The Return of the Thief (Children’s novel), Lagos: Eph Communications Ltd., 2010.

• The Boy and His Dog (Children’s novel), Lagos: Eph Communications Ltd., 2010.

• Toki Learns the Hard Way, Lagos: Melrose Books and Publishing Ltd., 2011.

• Mina the Shy Girl, Lagos: Melrose Books and Publishing Ltd., 2011.

• Kidnapped at Noon, Lagos: Melrose Books and Publishing Ltd., 2012.

• Seyi’s Strong Voice, Lagos: Melrose Books and Publishing Ltd., 2012.

• Dancing Mask, Ibadan: Kraft Books, 2013.

• Singing in the Rain & Other Poems for Children, Ibadan: University Press, 2014.

• Ona and the Dwarf (Co-authored with Odinaka Azubuike), Benin: God Scholars’ Publishers, 2014.

• The Eagle and Other Poems for Secondary Schools, Benin: God Scholars’ Publishers, 2014.

PLAYS

• Hands That Crush Stone, Ibadan: University Press Plc, 2010.

• Barmaid and the Witches of Izunga, Ibadan: University Press Plc, 2010.

FICTION

• The Last of the Strong Ones (Novel), Lagos: Vista Books, 1996.

• House of Symbols (Novel), Lagos: Oracle Books Limited, 2001.

• Children of the Eagle (Novel), Lagos: Vista Books, 2002.

• Rhythms of Life (Short Stories), London: Karnak House, 1992.

• Echoes in the Mind (Short Stories), Foundation Publishers, 1994; Vista Books, 1996.

• Rituals & Departures (Short Stories), London: Karnak House, 1996.

• Fractures & Fragments (Short Stories), Lagos: African Cultural Institute, 2006.

• Adventures of Anum the Tortoise, Lagos: Lantern Books/Literamed Publications, 2006.

• My Cousin Sammy, Ikorodu: The Book Company, 2007.

• Fire from the Holy Mountain, Ibadan: University Press, 2007.

• Trafficked, Ikeja: Lantern Books/Literamed Publications, 2008.

• Roses and Bullets (Novel), Lagos: Jalaa Writers’ Collective, 2011.

• Magic Breast Bags, Ibadan: University Press Plc, 2019.

• A Million Bullets and a Rose, London: Abibiman Publishing, 2022.

• Do Not Burn My Bones & Other Stories, Lagos: Purple Shelves Limited, 2022.

POETRY

• Heart Songs, Ibadan: Kraft Books, 2009.

• Broken Bodies, Damaged Souls & Other Poems, Lagos: Purple Shelves Limited, 2022.

EDITED WORKS / ANTHOLOGIES

• Silver Lining: An Anthology of Nigerian Literature (Co-edited with Folu Agoi), PEN Nigeria Centre, 2019.

• Metaphor for Happiness & Other Stories (Co-editor), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Press, 2019.

• Tolerance & Other Poems (Co-editor), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Press, 2019.

• Contours of Tolerance (Co-editor), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Press, 2019.

• Resident Alien & Other Stories (Co-edited with Ada Uzoamaka Azodo), Goldline & Jacobs, USA, 2020.

• Footmarks: Poems on One Hundred Years of Nigeria’s Nationhood (Co-edited with Naza Amaeze Okoli), Ikeja: ICS Services Limited, 2014.

• Wings of Dawn: An Anthology of New Writing by Nigerian Women (Co-edited with Ronnie Uzoigwe), British Council/WRITA, Lagos, 2006.

NON-FICTION

• Fact & Fiction in the Literature of the Nigerian Civil War, Lagos: Unity Publishing & Research Company, 1992.

• Gender Issues in Nigeria – A Feminine Perspective, Lagos: Vista Books, 1996.

• A Companion to the Novel, Lagos: Vista Books, 1998.

• The Literatures of War (Edited with Liz Gunner), SOAS, University of London.

• Literature, Language and National Consciousness (Edited with K. King-Aribisala), Lagos: University of Lagos Press, 2006.

• Snail-Sense Feminism: Building on an Indigenous Model, Faculty of Arts, University of Lagos, 2012.

ESSAYS AND MEDIA FEATURES ON HER WORK

• “When a Novelist Writes a Play” by Chika Abanobi, The Spectator, 20–26 February 2009, p. 41.

• “Escape into Poetry, Audacity of Pidgin” by Akeem Lasisi, The Punch, 19 May 2009, p. 46.

• “Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo’s Post-Inaugural Harvest” by Ezechi Onyerionwu, Sunday Vanguard, 14 June 2009, p. 47.

• “10 Most Significant Contemporary Nigerian Novelists” by Henry Akubuiro, The National Life, 22 March 2009, p. 21.

• “Profile of a Role Model, Prof. Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo,” Growing Up, Action Health Incorporated, Vol. 17, No. 14, December 2009, p. 20.

 

ANA Congratulates Prof. Akachi Ezeigbo on Her 79th Birthday

ANA CONGRATULATES PROF. AKACHI EZEIGBO ON HER 79TH BIRTHDAY

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has warmly congratulated Professor Akachi Ezeigbo, current Chairperson of the Advisory Board of the NLNG Nigeria Prize for Literature and Member of the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL), on the joyous occasion of her 79th birthday. 

The congratulatory message was contained in a press statement jointly issued by the ANA President, Dr. Uman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD.

In the statement, ANA described Professor Ezeigbo as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished literary icons whose enduring contributions to creative writing, scholarship, and mentorship have left an indelible mark on the nation’s literary landscape. 

The Association praised her unwavering commitment to excellence and her tireless efforts in nurturing generations of writers, scholars, and literary enthusiasts.

Professor Ezeigbo, an accomplished Nigerian author and educator, has published extensively across genres, including novels, poetry, short stories, children’s literature, essays, and journalism. A recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Nigeria Prize for Literature, her body of work reflects depth, cultural consciousness, and a profound engagement with societal issues. Her writings continue to inspire readers within and beyond Nigeria.

Beyond her creative accomplishments, ANA highlighted her remarkable academic career and supervisory record. At the University of Lagos, she supervised over 160 undergraduate projects between 1986 and 2015, in addition to supervising 12 projects at the Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo, from 2015 to 2022. She also guided more than 100 Master’s dissertations at Unilag and successfully supervised 12 PhD candidates who graduated between 2003 and 2018. She is currently supervising a doctoral student at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State. Additionally, she supervised six Postgraduate Diploma students at the University of Lagos between 2012 and 2014.

The Association further commended her contributions to journalism and public discourse. Professor Ezeigbo served on the editorial boards of two Lagos-based newspapers, The Independent (1992–1995) and The Post Express (1997–1999), where she wrote editorials, feature articles, and maintained regular columns. Through these platforms, she demonstrated her versatility and commitment to shaping informed public opinion.

ANA also acknowledged her global literary engagements, noting that Professor Ezeigbo has toured several countries, reading from her works and participating in international literary events. In 1993, she toured six British cities—London, Bristol, Leicester, Liverpool, Manchester, and Nottingham—where she read from her short story collection Rhythms of Life: Stories of Modern Nigeria. She was a guest of the Centre for African Studies at the University of Edinburgh in 1998 and delivered readings in Germany at the Evangelische Akademie in Bad Boll (2000) and Humboldt University, Berlin (2002). She also participated in the Time of the Writer Festival in South Africa, the 2002 International PEN Convention in Macedonia, and presented a paper at the Zimbabwe International Book Fair in 2003.

Among her numerous publications are The Buried Treasure, The Prize, Alani the Troublemaker & Other Stories, Asa and the Little Stream, Whisker the Brave Cat, Red One and the Wizard of Mula, Snake Child and Star Baby, Ezezemale and the Tree Spirits, Sunshine, the Miracle Child, Heart Songs, Clouds and Other Poems for Children, Ako the Storyteller, and Zoba and His Gang. These works, spanning children’s fiction and poetry to adult literature, underscore her versatility and commitment to promoting literacy and storytelling among diverse audiences.

While celebrating her 79th birthday, ANA expressed profound gratitude for Professor Ezeigbo’s steadfast dedication to the advancement of Nigerian literature and scholarship. The Association prayed for her continued good health, strength, and inspiration, noting that her legacy remains a guiding light for emerging and established writers alike. ANA reaffirmed its pride in associating with such a distinguished literary matriarch whose life embodies service, excellence, and creative brilliance.

 

ANA President joins PAWA Secretary General To Honour Chief Afe Babalola

ANA PRESIDENT JOINS PAWA SECRETARY GENERAL TO HONOUR CHIEF AFE BABALOLA

By ANA Media Team

The President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, joined the Secretary General of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), Dr. Wale Okediran, on 5th February 2026 to honour Aare Emmanuel Afe Babalola, CON, SAN, at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti.

The honour, conferred by PAWA as the umbrella body of writers’ associations across Africa, recognized Chief Afe Babalola’s enduring contributions to education, intellectual development, and nation-building.

Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, as ANA President, participated in the delegation led by Dr. Wale Okediran to formally celebrate the visionary leadership that birthed Afe Babalola University sixteen years ago.

PAWA noted that the university has distinguished itself within a short period through academic excellence, sound character formation, and world-class infrastructure comparable to older institutions.

The institution’s serene environment, quality scholarship, and emphasis on discipline were highlighted as factors that have positioned it as a preferred destination for parents seeking high educational standards for their wards.

In his remarks, Aare Emmanuel Afe Babalola reflected on his journey from poverty to prominence and reaffirmed his belief that education remains the strongest catalyst for societal growth and sustainable development.

He emphasized that investing personal resources in education provides a more enduring legacy than material inheritance, a conviction that informed his commitment to building and sustaining the university.

Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, alongside the PAWA delegation, expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded them and affirmed that the honour bestowed on Chief Afe Babalola was timely, fitting, and richly deserved.

Oyin Oyegoke To Headline ANA Osun February Reading

OYIN OYEGOKE TO HEADLINE ANA OSUN FEBRUARY READING

The Osun State Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA Osun) has announced that its February Monthly Reading will be headlined by acclaimed author and cultural storyteller, Oyin Oyegoke.

The literary gathering is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Ila Bar, Madam Aderinu Shopping Complex, Gbongan Road, MDS, Osogbo, Osun State, beginning at 12 PM.

This announcement was made in a press statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary of ANA Osun, Odetayo Wasiu Mobewaji and Olaonipekun Olatunde, who described the event as yet another milestone in the Association’s ongoing commitment to celebrating literary excellence and fostering a vibrant reading culture across the state.

Oyin Oyegoke is an author, cultural storyteller, and advocate for education, youth development, and the promotion of African heritage. His recently launched bilingual graphic novel, Ọlọ́dẹ Ọ̀ṣọ́ (Hunter Diamond in English), fuses African culture, language, and values with modern storytelling to inspire young readers. As a creative entrepreneur and tech professional, Oyegoke is dedicated to producing engaging educational content that promotes literacy, cultural identity, and socio-cultural growth across Africa.

In his graphic novel series, beginning with Era of Diamonds (Àkókò Òșó), Oyegoke demonstrates how arts and literature can be simultaneously colorful, entertaining, and instructive. The work is designed to revive the reading culture, encourage African language literacy, and provide both educational and recreational value to readers of all ages.

The February reading promises to be an interactive platform for writers, readers, and literary enthusiasts, celebrating creativity while nurturing the growth of a sustainable literary culture in Osun State.

ANA Osun warmly invites students, book lovers, and the general public to participate in this enriching experience.

For participation and further inquiries, interested individuals may contact 08160881375 for directions and additional information.

Yusuf Ali, SAN Funds 2026 ANA Reading Awareness Campaign

 YUSUF ALI, SAN FUNDS 2026 ANA READING AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

By ANA Media Team

The Principal Partner of Yusuf O. Ali & Co. (Ghalib Chambers), Yusuf Ali, SAN, FCIArb, has donated the sum of ₦3 million (Three Million Naira) to fund the 2026 ANA/Yusuf Ali Reading Awareness Campaign.

A highly respected and intellectually inclined Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Yusuf Ali, SAN, has consistently sponsored the reading campaign since 2012. His continued support of the initiative reflects his deep commitment to literacy development and the promotion of a vibrant reading culture across Nigeria.

The President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD, expressed delight and profound gratitude to the philanthropist for his unwavering support of the Association’s annual literary awareness campaign. 

They also urged wealthy and well-meaning Nigerians from all walks of life to emulate Yusuf Ali, SAN, by investing in educational and literary development initiatives that strengthen national growth.

The Yusuf Ali Grant further reinforces his long-standing commitment to the advancement of literature in Nigeria. 

The grant will provide much-needed support to selected ANA state branches, enabling them to organise reading programmes, expand literary activities, and promote the steady growth of their chapters.

The Association of Nigerian Authors sincerely thanks Yusuf Ali, SAN, FCIArb, for his generosity, vision, and sustained support for Nigerian literature.