ANA Honours Basorun Seinde Arogbofa At 87 As Gov. Ayedatiwa Leads Dignitaries At Akure Book Launch

ANA HONOURS BASORUN SEINDE AROGBOFA AT 87 AS GOV. AYEDATIWA LEADS DIGNITARIES AT AKURE BOOK LAUNCH

By ANA Media Team 

The historic Obafemi Awolowo Auditorium at Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, was filled with dignitaries and admirers as eminent scholar, cultural advocate, and elder statesman, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, celebrated his 87th birthday with the public presentation of two books and his investiture into the College of Fellows of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA). 

The event drew a distinguished gathering of political leaders, academics, monarchs, clerics, writers, students, and other prominent personalities from across Ondo State.

The occasion was chaired by renowned legal luminary and former Minister of Defence, Adetokunbo Kayode, SAN, who praised the celebrant for his outstanding intellectual contributions and lifelong commitment to scholarship, public service, and Yoruba cultural heritage. Kayode described Arogbofa as a statesman whose life embodies dedication to truth, education, and leadership.

In attendance was the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Ayedatiwa, who served as the Book Presenter and Chief Launcher. The governor formally launched the book titled Understanding Afenifere: A Journey through the Yoruba Leadership Organization, authored by the celebrant. In his remarks, Ayedatiwa eulogised Arogbofa and commended his immense contributions to the development of the state, particularly in the area of education.

Governor Ayedatiwa also expressed appreciation to the Association of Nigerian Authors for honouring the elder statesman with induction into the College of Fellows. According to the governor, the fact that Arogbofa has authored twenty-one books is a testimony to his intellectual dedication and confirms him as one of the most distinguished literary figures produced by Ondo State.

Another highlight of the ceremony was the presentation and launching of a second book by the Chairman of the National Population Commission, Aminu Yusuf. Although he was unavoidably absent, he was ably represented by wife of a former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Mrs. Kemi Iyantan who described herself as a daughter of the celebrant and shared personal reflections about her encounters and experiences with him.

Serving as Special Guest of Honour was Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, Executive Director for Corporate Services at the Niger Delta Development Commission and the Asiwaju of Akureland. He commended Arogbofa’s enduring commitment to Yoruba cultural advancement and intellectual engagement.

The President of the Association of Nigerian Authors, Usman Oladipo Akanbi, described Arogbofa as one of the pillars of the association who has played a significant role in its growth over the years. 

According to him, the celebrant was the pioneer Chairman of the Ondo State Chapter of ANA and remains a central figure in the development of the association within the state.

Dr. Akanbi explained that the honour bestowed on Arogbofa was in recognition of his pioneering role in establishing and nurturing the Ondo State Chapter of ANA, as well as his remarkable contributions to literature and public service. He noted that the elder statesman has consistently demonstrated commitment to the advancement of writers and literary culture in the state.

He further revealed that over the years, Arogbofa had hosted numerous meetings of the association and provided unwavering support whenever the need arose. Such dedication, he said, has made the celebrant a respected mentor and benefactor within Nigeria’s literary community.

During his remarks, Dr. Akanbi also highlighted the significant contributions of Ondo State indigenes to the history of the Association of Nigerian Authors. He noted that the late Prof. Kole Omotoso served as the first General Secretary of the association and later became its second National President, while Arogbofa brought the organisation to Ondo State and served as its pioneer chairman.

The book review was delivered by renowned political scientist and former Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Prof. Femi Mimiko, who offered a detailed appraisal of Understanding Afenifere: A Journey through the Yoruba Leadership Organization. Prof. Mimiko described the work as an important historical and intellectual contribution that provides deep insight into the evolution and ideals of the Yoruba socio-political movement.

The Father of the Day, respected Yoruba leader and elder statesman Chief Dr. Reuben Fasoranti, CFR, was represented at the ceremony by the Secretary  General of Afenifere, Chief Sola Ebiseni

The event also featured the presence of prominent royal fathers including.H.I.M,Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, CFR – Deji of Akure Land,  Oba Olu Falae, former SSG and Former Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy of Nigeria.

Other Royal Fathers who were unavoidably absent but  represented at the occasion include, H.I.M, Oba Ajibade Gbadgesin Ogunoye III, CFR, Olowo of owo and Chairman of Ondo State Council of Oba, H.I..M, Oba, Dr. Victor Kiladejo, CFR – Osamawe of Ondo.

The Royal Host of the occasion was Oba Adebori Adeleye, the Olubaka of Okaland, while notable academic personalities such as Prof. Adebiyi Balogun, former Vice Chancellor of FUTA, and Prof. William Aderounmu, Pro-Chancellor of Federal University Kashere, were also in attendance.

The Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Technology Akure, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, FAS, served as the host of the memorable ceremony, which celebrated not only the literary achievements of the celebrant but also his enduring influence in academia and cultural leadership.

In his closing remarks, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa expressed deep appreciation to the governor, dignitaries, and guests who honoured him with their presence. He used the opportunity to passionately appeal to the government to take urgent steps to rescue the Yoruba language from decline and called on the Ondo State Government to consider endowing a special fund dedicated to the promotion and preservation of the language.

He also extended heartfelt gratitude to the Association of Nigerian Authors for inducting him into the College of Fellows, describing the recognition as a great honour and a source of encouragement for his continued commitment to literature, culture, and national development. 

The ceremony concluded on a celebratory note as guests paid tribute to a man widely regarded as one of the enduring intellectual lights of Ondo State and Nigeria.

ANA Set to Induct Basorun Seinde Arogbofa Into College of Fellows Tomorrow

ANA SET TO INDUCT BASORUN SEINDE AROGBOFA INTO COLLEGE OF FELLOWS TOMORROW

By ANA Media Team

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) will tomorrow induct elder statesman, scholar, and cultural advocate, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, into the prestigious College of Fellows of the association as part of activities marking his 87th birthday celebration. 

The ceremony is scheduled to hold on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Obafemi Awolowo Auditorium in Akure, Ondo State.

The event will also feature the public presentation of two important books celebrating the life and intellectual contributions of the renowned writer and political leader. One of the books, Understanding Afenifere: A Journey through the Yoruba Leadership Organization, authored by Arogbofa, explores the evolution, philosophy, and influence of Afenifere, offering readers deeper insight into the organisation’s historical foundations and its role in shaping contemporary political discourse in Nigeria.

Also to be presented is Seinde Arogbofa: A Quintessential Role Model, a tribute volume that examines the life, leadership, and contributions of the distinguished public servant. 

The book is co-authored by respected academic W. Aderounmu and media practitioner Jare Ajayi, who highlight Arogbofa’s enduring legacy in public service, scholarship, and community leadership.

As part of the celebration, the Association of Nigerian Authors will formally confer on Basorun Arogbofa its prestigious College of Fellows honour in recognition of his outstanding contributions to literature, intellectual discourse, and national development. 

The investiture will be performed by the President of ANA, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi.

Dr. Akanbi stated that the honour is in recognition of Arogbofa’s pioneering role in the establishment and development of the Ondo State Chapter of ANA, as well as his remarkable contributions to literature and public service. He added that the elder statesman has remained a major pillar in the growth of the association in the state.

The ANA President further disclosed that Arogbofa served as the pioneer Chairman of the Ondo State Chapter of the association and remains one of the key financiers and supporters of the chapter. 

Over the years, he has hosted numerous meetings of the association and consistently provided support whenever the need arose.

The Chairman of the Ondo State Chapter of ANA, Dr. Sunday Afolayan, thanked the National Executive Council of the association for deeming it fit to honour the pioneer Chairman of the chapter. He noted that the event is expected to attract scholars, writers, political leaders, cultural stakeholders, and admirers from across the country who will gather in Akure to celebrate the remarkable life and achievements of the octogenarian.

ANA Congratulates Muslims on Successful Completion of Ramadan

ANA CONGRATULATES MUSLIMS ON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF RAMADAN

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the world on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan. 

The felicitation 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.

In the statement, the leadership of ANA commended Muslim faithful for their devotion, sacrifice, and spiritual commitment throughout the sacred period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. 

The association noted that Ramadan remains a significant period that promotes discipline, compassion, generosity, and moral renewal among adherents of the Islamic faith. 

ANA further described the completion of the fasting period as a moment of joy and thanksgiving, urging Muslims to sustain the virtues of love, peace, tolerance, and charity that define the Ramadan season. 

According to the association, these values are essential for strengthening national unity and fostering peaceful coexistence in Nigeria’s diverse society. 

The association also encouraged Nigerians, irrespective of religious or cultural backgrounds, to continue promoting understanding, mutual respect, and harmony among citizens. 

ANA emphasized that literature and the arts have a crucial role to play in building bridges of dialogue and promoting shared human values across communities. 

While wishing Muslims a joyous celebration of Eid al‑Fitr, the leadership of ANA prayed for continued peace, progress, and prosperity in Nigeria. 

The association reaffirmed its commitment to promoting creativity, cultural understanding, and national development through literary engagement. 

ANA Honours Seinde Arogbofa with Hall of Fame Induction, Book Launch at 87

 

ANA HONOURS SEINDE AROGBOFA WITH HALL OF FAME INDUCTION, BOOK LAUNCH AT 87

Elder statesman, scholar, and cultural advocate, Seinde Arogbofa, will mark his 87th birthday with the public presentation of two significant books and his investiture into the Hall of Fame of the Association of Nigerian Authors. The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Obafemi Awolowo Auditorium in Akure.

The ceremony will feature the public presentation of Understanding Afenifere: A Journey through the Yoruba Leadership Organization, authored by Basorun Seinde Arogbofa. The book explores the evolution, philosophy, and influence of the Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere, offering readers deeper insight into its historical foundations and its role in shaping contemporary political discourse in Nigeria.

Also to be presented is Seinde Arogbofa: A Quintessential Role Model, a tribute volume that examines the life, leadership, and contributions of the distinguished public servant. The book is co-authored by respected academic W. Aderounmu and media practitioner Jare Ajayi, who highlight Arogbofa’s enduring legacy in public service, scholarship, and community leadership.

As part of the celebration, the Association of Nigerian Authors will confer on Basorun Arogbofa its prestigious Hall of Fame Fellowship in recognition of his outstanding contributions to literature, intellectual discourse, and national development. The investiture will be performed by the President of ANA, Usman Oladipo Akanbi.

The event is expected to attract scholars, writers, political leaders, cultural stakeholders, and admirers from across the country who will gather to celebrate the remarkable life and achievements of the octogenarian. The organisers describe the occasion as a fitting tribute to a man whose life has been devoted to service, intellectual engagement, and the advancement of Yoruba cultural and political thought.

The programme will commence at 10:00 a.m. at the Obafemi Awolowo Auditorium. For further enquiries, members of the public may contact the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Bayo Aborisade, on 08066505326; the Secretary of the Committee, Adedayo Afe, on 08033924751; or a member of the committee, Lanre Adebowale, on 08056655561.

Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, OFR, ANA, PEN, born on March 23, 1939, is a distinguished Nigerian author, public intellectual, and political leader known for his contributions to literature, governance, and socio-cultural advocacy. A respected elder statesman, he previously served as Secretary-General of Afenifere, where he played a pivotal role in shaping discussions on democracy, federalism, and Yoruba political leadership. He also holds the revered traditional title of Asiwaju of Oka-Akoko.

Arogbofa was born in Oka-Akoko, a historic town in Akoko South-West Local Government Area. He received his secondary education at Victory College Ikare-Akoko before proceeding to the University of Ibadan for higher education. Over the years, he has been recognised among the patriots who advocated for the creation of Ondo State, an effort acknowledged by the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

In politics and public affairs, Arogbofa began his political engagement as a member of the Alliance for Democracy before becoming deeply involved in the activities of Afenifere, where he eventually served as Secretary-General. Widely respected for his wisdom and mediation skills, he also played an important role in efforts to resolve the political crisis in Ondo State involving the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and his deputy Lucky Aiyedatiwa, demonstrating his commitment to dialogue, stability, and democratic values.

Beyond politics, Basorun Arogbofa has built an enduring reputation as a prolific writer and literary figure. A member of the Association of Nigerian Authors and PEN International, he has authored several works that explore themes of governance, morality, social responsibility, and national development. Some of his notable publications include Trapped (1983), Agidi Sours: Discipline on Trial (1985), The Socialite (1988), Wives and Mothers (1989), Nigeria: The Path We Refused to Take (2017), and To the Stars Through Bows and Arrows (Ad Astra Per Ardua) (2019).

In recognition of his contributions to education, literature, and national development, Basorun Arogbofa has received numerous honours and distinctions. He holds the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), conferred by former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan. He has also been inducted into the Ondo State Hall of Fame and honoured with scholarly tributes celebrating his intellectual and literary legacy.

Arogbofa’s influence extends beyond literature into intellectual discourse and policy advocacy. In 2015, a group of Nigerian scholars published a research project titled Knowledge Economy and Nigeria’s National Security: Essays in Honour of Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa, PEN, OFR, acknowledging his contributions to Nigerian literature and his advocacy for progressive educational policies. Today, Basorun Seinde Arogbofa remains a respected voice in national conversations on governance, culture, and leadership, inspiring younger generations through his writings, public service, and enduring commitment to Nigeria’s democratic and intellectual development.

 

ANA Congratulates Prof. Priye Iyalla-Amadi on her Birthday

ANA CONGRATULATES PROFESSOR PRIYE IYALLA-AMADI ON HER BIRTHDAY

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated Professor Priye Iyalla-Amadi on the occasion of her birthday. 

In its congratulatory message, ANA recognized Professor Iyalla-Amadi as a distinguished scholar and a passionate advocate for women’s rights. 

This announcement was made in a press statement issued by ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD. 

The statement celebrated Professor Iyalla-Amadi for her lasting impact in various fields and acknowledged her as a figure who has shaped both academic and social spheres in Nigeria.

Professor Priye Iyalla-Amadi is a Professor of French and Translation Studies at Ignatius Ajuru University in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. As an alumna of renowned institutions such as the University of Paris (La Sorbonne) and the University of Ibadan, she has dedicated her career to advancing French and Translation Studies. Her work has left a profound mark on her students and peers, establishing her as a leading academic in her field.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Professor Iyalla-Amadi is widely recognized for her role as the wife of the late Nigerian author Elechi Amadi. Elechi Amadi’s literary legacy, especially through works such as The Concubine and The Great Ponds, continues to shape Nigerian and African literature.

Professor Iyalla-Amadi has continued to honor her late husband’s memory, ensuring that his contributions to literature remain celebrated for future generations.

Professor Iyalla-Amadi’s advocacy for women’s rights stands as another pillar of her public life. She was instrumental in challenging the Nigerian Immigration Service’s discriminatory policy that required married women to seek their husbands’ consent to obtain a passport. Her legal battle led to a landmark ruling in 2009, marking a significant milestone for gender equality in Nigeria. 

On her birthday, ANA congratulated Professor Priye Iyalla-Amadi for her exceptional achievements and wished her continued success in all her endeavors.

ANA Congratulates Prof. Niyi Osundare on his 79th Birthday

ANA CONGRATULATES PROF. NIYI OSUNDARE ON HIS 79TH BIRTHDAY

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated the renowned poet and scholar, Niyi Osundare, on the occasion of his 79th birthday, describing him as one of Africa’s most distinguished literary voices whose works have continued to shape generations of writers and scholars across the world.

This was contained in a press statement jointly issued by ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the Association’s General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD who praised the celebrated poet for his remarkable contributions to literature, scholarship, and the promotion of African cultural values through the written and spoken word.

ANA noted that Osundare, a poet, dramatist, critic, essayist, and media columnist, has authored eighteen books of poetry, two volumes of selected poems, four plays, a book of essays, and numerous scholarly monographs and articles on literature, language, culture, and society. His poems and essays have appeared in more than seventy journals and magazines worldwide, affirming his global reputation as a towering figure in contemporary African literature.

Born in Nigeria and educated across three continents, Osundare obtained his B.A. (Honours) from University of Ibadan, an M.A. from University of Leeds in England, and a Ph.D. from York University. He began his teaching career at the University of Ibadan in 1974, rising to the rank of full professor in 1989 and later serving as Head of the Department of English between 1993 and 1997. He later joined University of New Orleans as Professor of English, where he distinguished himself as a leading scholar and mentor, eventually earning the titles of University Research Professor and Distinguished Professor of English.

According to ANA, Professor Osundare’s works and scholarship have earned him numerous national and international honours, including the ANA Prize, the Cadbury/ANA Prize, the Commonwealth Poetry Prize which he won twice, the Noma Award for Publishing in Africa, the Fonlon-Nichols Award, and the prestigious Nigerian National Merit Award in 2014. His poems have been translated into several languages including French, Italian, Spanish, Arabic, Japanese, and Korean, further reflecting the universal appeal of his literary artistry.

The Association also commended the enduring legacy of the celebrated poet, noting that the Niyi  Osundare International Poetry Festival (NOIPOFEST), established in 2015 in his honour, continues to promote poetry, scholarship, and literary engagement through annual readings, conferences, and cultural outreach. 

ANA wished Professor Osundare continued good health, long life, and many more years of intellectual and creative productivity in service to literature and humanity.

ANA Congratulates Chinyere Obi-Obasi on Her 60th Birthday

 ANA CONGRATULATES CHINYERE OBI-OBASI ON HER 60TH BIRTHDAY

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated its former National Financial Secretary, Mrs. Chinyere Obi-Obasi, on the occasion of her 60th birthday, describing her as a distinguished literary figure and creative entrepreneur whose contributions to literature and talent development have continued to inspire many across Nigeria.

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. 

In the statement, the leadership of the Association commended Obi-Obasi for her years of dedication to the growth of Nigerian literature and her valuable service to the Association of Nigerian Authors.

According to the statement, Chinyere Obi-Obasi is a Nigerian lawyer, author, public speaker, and creative entrepreneur whose professional journey spans law, banking, and the creative industry. She attended Federal Government Girls’ College Benin City before proceeding to Abia State University, Okigwe, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Language and Literature. She later earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Uyo and was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar after completing her training at the Nigerian Law School.

She began her professional career as a legal practitioner and practised law for seven years, a significant part of which was spent at the reputable law firm of Tayo Oyetibo (SAN) & Co.. She later transitioned into the banking sector where she built a successful career for thirteen years before voluntarily resigning in August 2014 to pursue her passion as a creative entrepreneur, focusing on public speaking, master of ceremonies services, comedy, writing, publishing, and blogging.

As a writer, Obi-Obasi has made notable contributions to children’s literature and creative writing. She is the author of four published books: The Brave Driver (2005), The Faithful Dog (2006), The Great Fall (2011), and Chijike (2015). Her literary achievements have received national recognition, including winning the ANA/Laterna Prize for Literature and emerging as a finalist in the prestigious Nigeria LNG Prize for Literature, one of the most respected literary prizes in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Beyond her writing career, Chinyere Obi-Obasi has remained actively involved in literary and professional organizations. She serves as a Trustee of the Abuja Literary Society, is a former Financial Secretary of the Association of Nigerian Authors, and a past President of the Aso Stars Toastmasters Club. 

The Association of Nigerian Authors therefore celebrates her remarkable achievements and wishes her continued success, good health, and many more years of impactful contributions to literature and society.