ANA Mourns Prof. Siyan Oyeweso, Guardian of Ulli Beier's Cultural Legacy

 ANA MOURNS PROF. SIYAN OYEWESO, GUARDIAN OF ULLI BEIER’S CULTURAL LEGACY

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Professor Abdulgafar Siyan Oyeweso, Chairman of the Governing Council and Pro-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. His death marks the loss of one of Nigeria’s most respected scholars whose contributions to education, cultural preservation, and intellectual development were profound and far-reaching.

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

Professor Oyeweso, a renowned historian, gifted educator, and distinguished mentor, dedicated his life to shaping minds, strengthening institutions, and advancing academic excellence. He touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, and political associates, leaving behind a legacy defined by integrity, scholarship, and exceptional service to humanity.

ANA recalls with pride his role as the founding Executive Director of the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding (CBCIU), where he championed the preservation and global projection of African history, culture, and heritage. His visionary leadership elevated CBCIU as a hub of research, documentation, and intercultural dialogue.

The Association particularly lauded Professor Oyeweso for his unwavering commitment to protecting and promoting the legacy of the late Ulli Beier, co-founder of the Osogbo School of Art and one of Africa’s foremost cultural ambassadors. Through his stewardship at CBCIU, he ensured that Beier’s invaluable contributions remained preserved and accessible to researchers, writers, artists, and future generations.

ANA extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, the academic community, and all who benefitted from his remarkable life of scholarship and cultural advocacy. His passing is a monumental loss, but his works and legacy will continue to illuminate the path for generations to come.

ANA Akwa Ibom Hosts Evening of Book Reading and Dinner on Creative Writing

 ANA AKWA IBOM HOSTS EVENING OF BOOK READING AND DINNER ON CREATIVE WRITING

By Richard Inya (ANA PRO South)

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, is set to host an inspiring Evening of Book Reading and Dinner themed “Challenge of Creative Writing in Akwa Ibom & The Way Forward.” The event aims to bring together writers, scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and stakeholders in the literary ecosystem to reflect on the state of creative writing in the state and explore pathways for growth and excellence.

The literary gathering is scheduled to hold on Thursday, 11th December, 2025, at 4:00 PM in the Conference Room of St. Athanasius Hospital, located on Clement Isong Street, Behind APICO House, Off Abak Road. The event promises an enriching blend of intellectual engagement, artistic performances, and cultural fellowship.

Distinguished personalities expected at the event include Prof. Joe Ushie, respected poet and Board of Trustees (BOT) member of ANA Nigeria; Dr. Bernard Dickson of the Department of English, University of Uyo; and Dr. Nestor Udo of Wine Empire. The occasion will be hosted by Dr. Emmanuel Akpenebong, Managing Director of St. Athanasius Hospital, while the ANA Akwa Ibom Chairman, Akan Essien, serves as Chief Host.

Attendees will experience a wide array of literary and artistic presentations, including book readings, spoken-word performances, and poem renditions. The evening will also feature a specially curated dinner designed to foster networking, collaboration, and meaningful discussions among writers and cultural advocates.

ANA Akwa Ibom invites writers, students, literature lovers, and the general public to be part of this remarkable event as the association continues to advance literary excellence and promote creative expression across the state.

ANA Members Congratulate President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi on his 57th Birthday

ANA MEMBERS CONGRATULATE PRESIDENT, DR. USMAN OLADIPO AKANBI, ON HIS 57TH BIRTHDAY

By Richard Inya (ANA PRO South)

Some members of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) have congratulated the National President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, on the occasion of his 57th birthday, celebrating his leadership, vision, and transformative contributions to Nigerian literature.

Dr. Joan Oji, ANA General Secretary, said: “To the man of the Moment. Sheu Usman Oladipo Akanbi, PhD, serving as the first female General Secretary under your presidency has been a tremendous learning curve for me. I never knew there was more to ANA than creative writing until we came on board in 2023. ‘Behold, half was not told me!’ Thank you Dipo, for teaching me to rediscover Robert Green’s THE 48 LAWS OF POWER, which I had read casually in the past but which re-reading has helped me understand ANA politics better. Here’s to many more years of outstanding success, personal growth, and higher leadership responsibilities, my Oga at the Top!”

Denja Abdullahi, former ANA President, praised Dr. Akanbi for reconciling warring factions within the association and rejuvenating the electoral system. He added that under Dr. Akanbi’s leadership, ANA has reached new heights, achieving remarkable feats through his administration skills and wealth of experience.

Freeman Okosun, former National Assistant Secretary of ANA and former ANA Oyo Secretary, described Dr. Akanbi’s first tenure as remarkable and inclusive. He emphasized that the President has transformed ANA, ensuring that every member of his administration is actively involved in decision-making.

B.M. Nagidi, the current ANA PRO (North), expressed pride in serving under the Akanbi-led administration. He highlighted Dr. Akanbi’s transparency, honesty, and dedication to carrying all executives along in every aspect of his leadership.

Wasiu Omobewaji, ANA Osun Chairman, noted the significant administrative and financial reforms Dr. Akanbi introduced. He praised the President’s cordial and supportive relationship with state chapter chairmen, adding that his corporate and academic expertise has strengthened ANA considerably.

Umar Yogiza, former ANA PRO (North) and Residency Manager of the Imodoye Writers Residency, recalled that even before aspiring for ANA presidency, Dr. Akanbi had demonstrated genuine passion for supporting Nigerian writers through the residency. He remarked that the current developments in ANA are a continuation of a longstanding commitment to writers’ welfare.

Abiola Layonu, former ANA Oyo Chairman and author of Once Upon a Crisis in the Annals of ANA, commended Dr. Akanbi for his support during the writing, editing, and proofreading of her book. He also noted his contribution in writing the foreword, describing him as a President with a listening ear.

Mrs. Awele Ilusanmi, FANA, a Fellow of ANA, described Dr. Akanbi as humble and always ready to uplift others. She emphasized that under his leadership, ANA has maintained a strong relationship with LITACO, and he continues to serve as a leader worthy of emulation.

Key achievements of Dr. Akanbi’s presidency during his first tenure include infrastructure development, with the commissioning of the ANA Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers’ Residency in 2024 and hosting residents by September 2025; international collaborations, including the Pan-African Writers Association partnership for the inaugural World Organisation of Writers (WOW) Congress in April 2024; and literacy initiatives such as A Reading Book Camp for secondary students.

Other notable accomplishments include strategic partnerships with Wikimedia Nigeria and other organisations to standardize operations at the ANA Secretariat, reconciliation of conflicts in several state chapters, recognition through a Certificate of Merit for contributions to literature, appointment as a Copyright Ambassador by the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), and the advancement of literary awards, including the Young Adult Literature Prize.

Born in Jos, Plateau State, on December 3, 1968, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi joined ANA in 1998 and currently serves as its National President. A creative writer, academic, and researcher, he has published works in poetry, prose, and drama. He founded the Imodoye Writers Enclave in 2001, which hosts a writers’ residency program.

In addition to his literary and academic pursuits, Dr. Akanbi is the immediate past Head of the Department of Agricultural Economics and Farm Management at the University of Ilorin. He is also a management consultant and a member of the Nigerian Institute of Management. He resides in Ilorin with his family, continuing to lead ANA with dedication and vision.

ANA Members Congratulate President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi on his 57th Birthday

 ANA MEMBERS CONGRATULATE PRESIDENT, DR. USMAN OLADIPO AKANBI, ON HIS 57TH BIRTHDAY

By Richard Inya (ANA PRO South)

Some members of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) have congratulated the National President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, on the occasion of his 57th birthday, celebrating his leadership, vision, and transformative contributions to Nigerian literature.

Dr. Joan Oji, ANA General Secretary, said: “To the man of the Moment. Sheu Usman Oladipo Akanbi, PhD, serving as the first female General Secretary under your presidency has been a tremendous learning curve for me. I never knew there was more to ANA than creative writing until we came on board in 2023. ‘Behold, half was not told me!’ Thank you Dipo, for teaching me to rediscover Robert Green’s THE 48 LAWS OF POWER, which I had read casually in the past but which re-reading has helped me understand ANA politics better. Here’s to many more years of outstanding success, personal growth, and higher leadership responsibilities, my Oga at the Top!”

Denja Abdullahi, former ANA President, praised Dr. Akanbi for reconciling warring factions within the association and rejuvenating the electoral system. He added that under Dr. Akanbi’s leadership, ANA has reached new heights, achieving remarkable feats through his administration skills and wealth of experience.

Freeman Okosun, former National Assistant Secretary of ANA and former ANA Oyo Secretary, described Dr. Akanbi’s first tenure as remarkable and inclusive. He emphasized that the President has transformed ANA, ensuring that every member of his administration is actively involved in decision-making.

B.M. Nagidi, the current ANA PRO (North), expressed pride in serving under the Akanbi-led administration. He highlighted Dr. Akanbi’s transparency, honesty, and dedication to carrying all executives along in every aspect of his leadership.

Wasiu Omobewaji, ANA Osun Chairman, noted the significant administrative and financial reforms Dr. Akanbi introduced. He praised the President’s cordial and supportive relationship with state chapter chairmen, adding that his corporate and academic expertise has strengthened ANA considerably.

Umar Yogiza, former ANA PRO (North) and Residency Manager of the Imodoye Writers Residency, recalled that even before aspiring for ANA presidency, Dr. Akanbi had demonstrated genuine passion for supporting Nigerian writers through the residency. He remarked that the current developments in ANA are a continuation of a longstanding commitment to writers’ welfare.

Abiola Layonu, former ANA Oyo Chairman and author of Once Upon a Crisis in the Annals of ANA, commended Dr. Akanbi for his support during the writing, editing, and proofreading of his book. He also noted his contribution in writing the foreword, describing him as a President with a listening ear.

Mrs. Awele Ilusanmi, FANA, a Fellow of ANA, described Dr. Akanbi as humble and always ready to uplift others. She emphasized that under his leadership, ANA has maintained a strong relationship with LITACO, and he continues to serve as a leader worthy of emulation.

Key achievements of Dr. Akanbi’s presidency during his first tenure include infrastructure development, with the commissioning of the ANA Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers’ Residency in 2024 and hosting residents by September 2025; international collaborations, including the Pan-African Writers Association partnership for the inaugural World Organisation of Writers (WOW) Congress in April 2024; and literacy initiatives such as A Reading Book Camp for secondary students.

Other notable accomplishments include strategic partnerships with Wikimedia Nigeria and other organisations to standardize operations at the ANA Secretariat, reconciliation of conflicts in several state chapters, recognition through a Certificate of Merit for contributions to literature, appointment as a Copyright Ambassador by the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), and the advancement of literary awards, including the Young Adult Literature Prize.

Born in Jos, Plateau State, on December 3, 1968, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi joined ANA in 1998 and currently serves as its National President. A creative writer, academic, and researcher, he has published works in poetry, prose, and drama. He founded the Imodoye Writers Enclave in 2001, which hosts a writers’ residency program.

In addition to his literary and academic pursuits, Dr. Akanbi is the immediate past Head of the Department of Agricultural Economics and Farm Management at the University of Ilorin. He is also a management consultant and a member of the Nigerian Institute of Management. He resides in Ilorin with his family, continuing to lead ANA with dedication and vision.

 

ANA Benue, Orshio Adasu University set to Honour Prof. Maria Ajima at 68

 ANA BENUE, ORSHIO ADASU UNIVERSITY SET TO HONOUR PROF. MARIA AJIMA AT 68

By BM Nagidi ANA PRO North

The Central Planning Committee, acting on behalf of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Benue State Chapter and the Department of English, Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, has announced plans for a grand celebration in honour of Prof. Maria Ajima, a distinguished literary icon and esteemed member of the ANA Board of Trustees, as she marks her 68th birthday. The event is scheduled to take place on 12th December 2025 at the Social Sciences Hall of the University at 2:00 PM.

According to the Committee, the celebration is designed to recognize Prof. Ajima’s extensive contributions to literary scholarship and her unwavering commitment to the development of Nigerian literature. Over the decades, she has made a remarkable impact as a scholar, critic, mentor, and cultural advocate, influencing generations of writers and researchers within and beyond Benue State.

A major highlight of the event is a conference dedicated to the presentation of scholarly essays for a festschrift in her honour. The gathering will provide a platform for academics, writers, and students to critically engage with her works and celebrate her intellectual legacy, which continues to shape discourses in African literature and gender studies.

The Committee further announced that Prof. Ode Ogede, renowned Professor of English and former faculty member of North Carolina Central University, Durham, North Carolina, USA, will serve as Guest Speaker. His presence, they noted, reflects the global scholarly community’s recognition of Prof. Ajima’s influence and the international scope of her academic engagements.

Serving as Chairlady of the event is Prof. Lucy Irene Vajime, formerly of the Department of English, Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi. Prof. Vajime.

The Committee also disclosed that Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), will grace the event as Special Guest of Honour. His attendance stressed the national significance of Prof. Ajima’s contributions to ANA and her role in advancing the literary arts across Nigeria.

The celebration will be hosted by Onwanyi Ulegede, Esq, Chair of ANA Benue State Chapter, while the Chief Host is Prof. Philip Sunday Bagu, Head of the Department of English, Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu Universit.

Members of the public, the academic community, writers, students, and admirers of Prof. Ajima’s work are warmly invited to attend. For further inquiries, the Central Planning Committee can be reached through Dr. Rhoda Aorabe (Chairwoman, 08023694008), Dr. Joshua Agbo (Alternate Chairman, 08151865901), and Dr. Regina Achie Nege (Secretary, 08078029212).

Lindsay Barrett to Chair ANA Book Party as Yogiza Umar Jr. Headlines Reading

 

LINDSAY BARRETT TO CHAIR ANA BOOK PARTY AS YOGIZA UMAR JR. HEADLINES READING

By BM Nagidi (ANA PRO North)

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has announced its December Book Party scheduled for Saturday, 13th December 2025, at the ANA Yusuf Ali Library and Research Centre, Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, Maitama Extension, Mpape Road, Abuja.

The event, set to begin at 3:00 pm, promises to be a remarkable gathering of writers, poets, and literature enthusiasts from across the country.

This edition of the ANA Book Party will be chaired by the renowned Jamaican-Nigerian poet, novelist, and journalist, Lindsay Barrett, whose contributions to African and Caribbean literature continue to inspire generations. The event will be hosted by the ANA National President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, under the central theme, Footprints on Stones: Writing Our Stories Before They Fade, a call to preserve African narratives and lived experiences through storytelling.

A major highlight of the event will be a special book reading session featuring the distinguished guest author, Yogiza Umar Jr., who will engage the audience with his acclaimed work, A Taste of Stone. Known for his lyrical depth and compelling imagery, Yogiza Umar Jr. is expected to deliver a reading that will provoke thought and deepen appreciation for contemporary Nigerian literature.

The session will be moderated by Mr. Husayn Zaguru. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with the guest author, ask questions, and share reflections on the book and its themes.

ANA encourages writers, poets, students, and lovers of literature to attend this exciting gathering, which aims to promote creative exchange and strengthen the bonds within the literary community. The Association emphasised that the event is open to the public and will provide an inspiring atmosphere for intellectual engagement and meaningful conversation.

Interested participants are urged to mark their calendars and join the celebration at the ANA Yusuf Ali Library and Research Centre. For further information and coordination, the event coordinator, Ngozi Alutulu-Ebulum, can be contacted on +2348060211263.

 

ANA Applauds Denja Abdulahi's New Role at NERDC, Expresses Solidarity

ANA APPLAUDS DENJA ABDULLAHI’S NEW ROLE AT NERDC, EXPRESSES SOLIDARITY

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated Mallam Denja Abdullahi, a former President of the Association, on his recent appointment and inauguration into the Governing Board of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC). 

This was conveyed in a press statement jointly signed by the President of ANA, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dr. Joan Oji, who expressed the Association’s heartfelt felicitations to the distinguished writer and cultural advocate.

ANA described the appointment as a well-deserved recognition of Mallam Abdullahi’s illustrious contributions to literature, arts administration, and national development. 

The Association noted that his appointment reflects his remarkable achievements, intellectual depth, and enduring commitment to advancing Nigeria’s cultural and educational sectors.

The Association affirmed that Mallam Denja Abdullahi’s presence on the NERDC Governing Board holds great promise for Nigeria’s literary and educational landscape. His vast experience, scholarly insight, and deep understanding of the strategic connection between language, literature, culture, and national growth are expected to significantly enrich the Council’s mission and policy direction.

Reassuring him of its unwavering support, ANA stated that the entire literary community stands firmly behind Mallam Abdullahi as he undertakes this national assignment. The Association expressed confidence that he will bring to the Board the same passion, dedication, and visionary leadership he demonstrated during his tenure as ANA President.

ANA concluded by wishing Mallam Denja Abdullahi a fruitful and impactful tenure. The Association expressed hope that this new responsibility will open greater opportunities for him to continue contributing to national development. A renowned poet, dramatist, playwright, cultural administrator, and UNESCO-certified expert on intangible cultural heritage, Mallam Abdullahi has authored 13 books and previously served as ANA President from 2015 to 2019. He recently retired as a Director with the National Council for Arts and Culture and continues to serve as Chairman of the Orpheus Literary Foundation.

Signed: 

Mr. Richard Inya

ANA PRO South

PICTURES FROM THE INAUGURATION