Senator Shehu Sani Unveils New Works as ANA Reaffirms Literature's Role in National Discourse

 SENATOR SHEHU SANI UNVEILS NEW WORKS AS ANA REAFFIRMS LITERATURE’S ROLE IN NATIONAL DISCOURSE

By ANA Media Team 

The President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, on Thursday, 15 January 2026, attended the presentation of two new books authored by Senator Shehu Sani, CFR, at the Mamman Vatsa Writers Village, Mpape, Abuja.

The books, titled The Village and the Vigilante and The Perilous Path to Europe: The Sahara Odyssey, were presented under the auspices of the Orpheus Foundation, led by Mallam Denja Abdullahi, FANA, former President of ANA.

The well-attended event attracted writers, scholars, diplomats, policymakers, and other distinguished guests, who gathered to honour Senator Shehu Sani, a renowned public intellectual, writer, and long-time supporter of the Association of Nigerian Authors. 

Of particular note was the presence of several members of the diplomatic community, lending international significance to the occasion.

The keynote address was delivered by Professor Emeka Aniagolu, who spoke extensively on the contemporary challenge of emigration from Nigeria. 

His presentation was further examined by a panel of discussants comprising Dr. Kabura Zakama, FANA; Madam Lois Adams; Esther Temitayo Adelana; and Dele Kogbe, all of whom offered diverse perspectives on the social and literary issues raised by the books.

A major highlight of the programme was the stage adaptation of The Village and the Vigilante. 

The dramatic performance was widely applauded for its relevance and artistic execution, with participants calling for the production to be taken on tour across other northern states.

The book review, delivered by Madam Salamatu Sule, was equally commended for its depth and critical insight.

The event also provided an opportunity for meaningful literary and cultural exchange. Dr. Akanbi interacted with several guests who expressed admiration for the Mamman Vatsa Writers Village as a vital hub for literary creativity and engagement in Nigeria. 

He also held discussions with members of the diplomatic corps, including the Ambassador of Colombia to Nigeria and Madam Gladys M. V. Feddy Akyea (Ph.D), Deputy Head of Mission, Ghana High Commission, Abuja.

In his remarks, Senator Shehu Sani explained that the books were inspired by pressing national concerns, particularly the issues of insecurity, banditry, and the growing sense of hopelessness among Nigerian youth, which continues to drive irregular migration.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Professor Udenta O. Udenta, who emphasised the enduring role of literature in interrogating social realities and shaping national discourse.

Dr. Akanbi described the book presentation as a significant literary event that reinforces the importance of creative writing as a tool for social reflection, advocacy, and transformation in Nigeria.

ANA Greets Patrick Nwagbo Obi on his Birthday

 ANA GREETS PATRICK NWAGBO OBI ON HIS BIRTHDAY

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated renowned playwright, Mr. Patrick Nwagbo Obi, on the occasion of his birthday, celebrating his remarkable contributions to Nigerian literature and the dramatic arts. 

ANA described Mr. Obi as a dedicated literary practitioner whose creative efforts have continued to enrich the nation’s cultural and intellectual space.

This message was contained in a press statement jointly issued by the President of ANA, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD. According to the statement, Mr. Obi’s birthday offers an opportunity to reflect on his commitment to playwriting, his consistency as a writer, and his influence on the growth of Nigerian theatre.

The association recalled with pride Mr. Obi’s outstanding achievement when his unpublished play, When Women Go Naked, won the 2015 SONTA–Olu Obafemi Playwriting Prize. ANA noted that the recognition highlights his creative depth, originality, and strong engagement with social issues through drama.

ANA wished Mr. Patrick Nwagbo Obi good health, continued inspiration, and many more fruitful years of literary service. 

The association reaffirmed its appreciation of his achievements and expressed confidence that he will continue to make meaningful contributions to Nigerian and African drama.

ANA Pays Tribute to Jahman Anikulapo at 63

ANA PAYS TRIBUTE TO JAHMAN ANIKULAPO AT 63

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has paid glowing tribute to renowned journalist, arts and culture advocate, and editor, Mr. Jahman Anikulapo, as he marks his 63rd birthday, celebrating a life devoted to the advancement of Nigeria’s cultural and literary heritage.

The tribute was contained in a press statement jointly signed by the President of ANA, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD. 

According to the association, Anikulapo’s enduring contributions to arts, culture, and creative expression have positioned him as a guiding light whose influence continues to resonate across generations of writers and cultural practitioners.

A former Arts Editor at The Guardian on Sunday, including Guardian Life magazine, Jahman Anikulapo has been actively engaged in arts and culture journalism since 1987.

Over the decades, he has reported major cultural events and coordinated creative programmes across continents, earning widespread respect as one of Africa’s most authoritative and consistent cultural voices.

Beyond the newsroom, Anikulapo has distinguished himself as a former stage actor, manager, and director, working on notable national and international productions. Through these varied roles, he has contributed to shaping cultural discourse and policy, serving on influential bodies such as the Commonwealth Foundation and the Tony Blair Commission for Africa’s sub-committee on Culture.

Currently, he serves as Programme Chairman of the Committee for Relevant Art (CORA), where he has co-directed the Lagos Book and Art Festival (LABAF) since 1999. He is also the Executive Director of the iREP Film Festival, a board member of the Arts and Business Foundation (ABF), and a respected consultant on books and magazine publications. 

ANA wished him continued good health, renewed strength, and many more years of meaningful service to arts, culture, and national development.

At 73, ANA Salutes Prof. Hyginus Ekwuasi’s Contributions to African Cinema

AT 73, ANA SALUTES PROF. HYGINUS EKWUASI’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO AFRICAN CINEMA

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated renowned Nigerian academic, author, filmmaker, and poet, Professor Hyginus Ekwuasi, on the occasion of his 73rd birthday, celebrating a life devoted to scholarship, creativity, and the advancement of African cinema and letters.

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

The Association described Professor Ekwuasi as a towering intellectual whose pioneering work continues to shape film studies, media arts, and literary discourse in Nigeria and beyond.

Born in 1953 in Enugu, Professor Ekwuasi received his early education in Nigeria before earning a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Ibadan, where he also obtained his Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Theatre Arts. His academic training was further enriched through advanced studies in media arts at Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania in the United States, experiences that broadened his global scholarly outlook.

Over a distinguished career spanning more than four decades, Professor Ekwuasi served as Professor of Broadcasting and Film at the University of Ibadan, where he also acted as Head of the Department of Theatre Arts. Beyond the university, he made indelible marks in the film industry as Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation, founding Director of the National Film Institute, Jos, and as a consultant to international bodies including UNESCO and the World Bank, contributing significantly to film education, production, and policy development.

ANA noted that his seminal book, Film in Nigeria, remains a foundational text in African film studies, offering rigorous analysis of Nigerian cinema from its early beginnings to contemporary practice. His numerous scholarly works on screenwriting, television, documentary film, and advertising have continued to bridge theory and practice, mentoring generations of filmmakers, scholars, and media practitioners.

As a creative writer, Professor Ekwuasi has also distinguished himself in poetry, drama, and fiction, earning multiple awards and critical acclaim. The Association lauded his enduring legacy as a mentor, juror, and cultural advocate, and wished him continued good health, fulfillment, and inspiration as he marks his 73rd birthday, celebrating his lasting contributions to Nigerian and African cultural life.

ANA Congratulates Okuyeme, New ACWAN Executive Committee

 ANA CONGRATULATES OKUYEME, NEW ACWAN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated the newly elected Executive Committee of the Arts and Culture Writers Association of Nigeria (ACWAN), describing the outcome of the election as a positive development for arts and culture journalism in the country.

The congratulatory message was contained in a press statement jointly issued by the President of ANA, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD. The Association commended ACWAN for conducting a credible process that produced experienced professionals with proven commitment to cultural advocacy.

ANA particularly congratulated the newly elected Chairman of ACWAN, veteran journalist Mr. Tony Okuyeme of New Telegraph Newspaper, noting his long-standing contributions to arts, culture, and media practice in Nigeria. The Association expressed confidence that his leadership will strengthen the visibility and relevance of arts and culture reporting nationwide.

The statement also acknowledged other members of the newly elected Executive Committee, including Toyin Falade who emerged as Vice Chairman, Anote Ajeluorou of TheArtHubNg, who emerged as Secretary-General, and Ngozi Uma of Daily Independent, elected as Assistant Secretary-General. ANA described the team as a blend of experience, professionalism, and passion for cultural development.

According to ANA, the emergence of the new ACWAN leadership comes at a critical time when sustained documentation, critique, and promotion of Nigeria’s creative industries are essential to national identity, cultural preservation, and economic growth. The Association stressed the importance of strong partnerships among literary, artistic, and media bodies in advancing shared cultural goals.

The Association of Nigerian Authors reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with ACWAN under the new leadership to promote literature, arts, and cultural discourse in Nigeria. ANA wished the Executive Committee a successful tenure marked by innovation, unity, and impactful service to the nation’s creative ecosystem.

ANA Salutes Dr. Tony Marinho's Legacy at 77

ANA SALUTES DR. TONY MARINHO’S LEGACY AT 77

By ANA Media Team

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has joyfully saluted the enduring legacy of renowned philanthropist, medical doctor, columnist and author, Dr. Tony Marinho, as he marks the distinguished age of 77—an age not just of years, but of cheers for service rendered and paths well steered.

ANA described the milestone as a moment to celebrate a life defined by purpose and probity, where intellect meets impact and compassion fuels action, leaving lasting impressions on medicine, literature and social development in Nigeria—achievements that shine brighter with time, like wisdom in its prime.

The goodwill message was conveyed in a press statement jointly signed by the President of ANA, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD. The statement praised Dr. Marinho as a rare harmony of professional excellence and creative brilliance, whose journey continues to inspire writers, healers and leaders to dream, to serve, and to rise above limits.

A practicing obstetrician and gynaecologist based in Ibadan, Dr. Marinho’s story began at St. Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, Lagos, where he emerged Head Boy in 1967, already marked for distinction. He later graduated as a medal-winning medical student of the University of Ibadan, where his love for the arts found expression on the vibrant stage of the Arts Theatre—proof that science and creativity can walk side by side.

From writing The Victim during his National Youth Service in Plateau State to building a remarkable career as a Consultant Gynaecologist, lecturer, playwright, poet and social critic, Dr. Marinho has woven healing and storytelling into a single calling. As founder of Educare Trust, he has also extended hope to the young through education and health advocacy. ANA therefore celebrates not just 77 years lived, but a legacy that is alive, active and giving—wishing Dr. Tony Marinho continued health, deeper fulfillment, and many more years of purposeful living and inspired giving.

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.