ANA Unveils Month-Lomg Commemorative Activities To Celebrate Emeritus Prof. Femi Osofisan At 80

 ANA UNVEILS MONTH-LONG COMMEMORATIVE ACTIVITIES TO CELEBRATE EMERITUS PROF. FEMI OSOFISAN AT 80

By ANA Media Team

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has unveiled a month-long programme of literary and cultural activities to celebrate the 80th birthday of Emeritus Prof. Femi Osofisan, one of Africa’s most distinguished playwrights, scholars, and cultural icons. 

Scheduled for June 2026, the commemorative events are designed to honour his immense contributions to literature, theatre, education, and cultural advocacy across Nigeria and the African continent under the theme, “Emeritus Prof. Femi Osofisan at 80.”

The celebration will bring together writers, academics, theatre practitioners, students, and cultural enthusiasts to reflect on the enduring legacy of a literary giant whose works have shaped generations of African literary and dramatic expression. 

According to ANA, the programme is intended not only as a tribute to Prof. Osofisan’s achievements but also as an opportunity to deepen conversations around literature, performance, and cultural identity.

Activities will begin with the Association of Nigerian Authors Commemorative Exhibition, scheduled to run from Wednesday, June 1 to Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Prince Tunde Odunade Arts and Culture Connexions. The exhibition will showcase rare photographs, books, manuscripts, stage memorabilia, and archival materials documenting the life, works, and achievements of Prof. Osofisan. Organizers say the exhibition will offer visitors a unique opportunity to engage closely with the creative journey of one of Nigeria’s foremost literary voices.

As part of the celebration, a Masterclass Playwriting Clinic will hold from Monday, June 8 to Friday, June 12, 2026, at the Wole Soyinka Arts Theatre. The clinic is expected to provide aspiring and emerging playwrights with practical insights into dramatic writing, theatrical storytelling, and performance traditions. The programme will also serve as a platform for mentorship and creative exchange, reinforcing Prof. Osofisan’s longstanding commitment to nurturing younger generations of writers and theatre practitioners.

The commemorative events will continue on Monday, June 22, 2026, with an International Colloquium on African Drama and Performance Traditions. Scholars, researchers, and theatre professionals from different parts of the world are expected to participate in discussions examining the impact of African dramaturgy and the role of Prof. Osofisan’s work in shaping contemporary theatre discourse. 

The colloquium aims to foster intellectual engagement around performance traditions, literary scholarship, and cultural identity. Later the same day, ANA will host an Evening of Homage Reading and Performance featuring excerpts from selected works by Prof. Osofisan, tribute presentations, and the unveiling of a commemorative book of tributes. 

The evening programme will celebrate the playwright’s artistic achievements through dramatic readings, reflections, and performances inspired by his influential body of work. Organizers say the tribute session will provide an emotional and reflective space for admirers, colleagues, and students to honour his remarkable contributions to literature and performance.

The celebration will conclude on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, with a Day of Indigenous Art and Culture dedicated to showcasing traditional performances, music, dance, and cultural expressions that reflect the richness of African heritage. 

ANA described the month-long programme as a celebration of excellence, creativity, and cultural impact, inviting members of the public to participate in honouring a lifetime of artistic achievement and the enduring legacy of Emeritus Prof. Femi Osofisan at 80.