ANA Raises Alarm Over Fresh Taxes, Warns of Rising Burden on Nigerians, Calls for Review of Federal Government's Tax Reforms

ANA RAISES ALARM OVER FRESH TAXES, WARNS OF RISING BURDEN ON NIGERIANS, CALLS FOR REVIEW OF FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S TAX REFORMS

By ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has raised the alarm over the recent introduction of a series of fresh taxes by the Nigerian government, warning that the measures could significantly increase the financial burden on Nigerians and further weaken the country’s already fragile economic situation.

The association noted that the timing and scope of the tax reforms are likely to impose additional strain on the average Nigerian, many of whom are already struggling with rising living costs and declining purchasing power.

ANA observed that prevailing economic conditions, marked by high inflation, unemployment, and widespread economic uncertainty, make the introduction of multiple new taxes particularly worrisome. 

According to the association, rather than easing economic pressures, the reforms risk deepening hardship for individuals, families, and small businesses across the country.

These concerns were contained in a press statement jointly issued by the President of the Association of Nigerian Authors, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji (PhD). 

The statement reflects the collective stance of Nigerian writers and intellectuals who remain deeply concerned about the social and economic wellbeing of the nation.

ANA, therefore, called on the federal government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to exercise restraint and undertake a thorough review of the new tax reforms. 

The association urged the government to carefully assess the real-life impact of these policies and ensure that fiscal decisions do not further compound the hardship faced by citizens.

The association also advocated for a comprehensive and inclusive dialogue with key stakeholders, including labour unions, civil society organisations, professional bodies, and the private sector. 

ANA further implored the federal government to prioritise policies that promote economic stability, job creation, and social welfare, expressing confidence that a balanced approach to revenue generation would lead to improved living conditions and renewed hope for the average Nigerian.

ANA Commends Members' Commitment, Sets Rules for Use of Association Facilities

ANA COMMENDS MEMBERS’ COMMITMENT, SETS RULES FOR USE OF ASSOCIATION FACILITIES

By ANA Media Team  

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has greeted its members with New Year wishes, commending them for their unwavering support and dedication to the Association’s activities and achievements recorded in 2025.

This was contained in a statement issued on 16 January 2026 by the National President of ANA, Usman Oladipo Akanbi, PhD, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD, on behalf of the Board of Trustees and the National Executive Council.

The Association, in the statement, expressed deep appreciation to members whose commitment and remarkable contributions were instrumental to the success of its programmes and milestones during the year under review.

ANA further acknowledged the vital role played by its members in promoting literature and the arts, describing their efforts as central to the continued growth and relevance of Nigeria’s literary community.

As the Association ushers in the year 2026, members were encouraged to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence and to sustain their commitment to advancing the objectives of the Association and the nation’s literary development.

The statement also announced that any individual or group seeking to utilise ANA facilities for events must submit a formal request to the Secretariat at least three weeks before the proposed date, noting that such dates must not conflict with any national programmes of the Association, while calling for strict compliance to ensure smooth coordination of activities.

ANA Mourns Imam Abdullahi Abubakar

 ANA MOURNS IMAM ABDULLAHI ABUBAKAR

ANA Media Team 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has mourned the passing of Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, describing his death as a monumental loss to Nigeria and to the global community that values peace, courage, and moral leadership.

From the perspective of authors and literary thinkers, the late Imam’s life stands as a powerful example of how words, actions, and moral conviction can shape society, foster understanding, and defend humanity in times of crisis.

This condolence statement was jointly issued by the President of ANA, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and the General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD.

ANA expressed heartfelt sympathy to the family of the late Imam, the Muslim and Christian communities, and all Nigerians who drew inspiration from his extraordinary courage and unwavering commitment to protecting human life.

ANA highlighted Imam Abdullahi Abubakar’s heroic actions during the 2018 Plateau crisis, when he sheltered over 300 Christians fleeing sectarian violence in Barkin Ladi. By placing the sanctity of life above all else, the Imam demonstrated principles that resonate deeply with writers: empathy, conscience, and the transformative power of moral courage. His fearless stand for peace and interfaith harmony remains a compelling reminder of how individuals can challenge division with compassion.

The association also emphasized the Imam’s enduring legacy as a moral compass and embodiment of the true teachings of Islam. 

Through his selfless leadership, he showed that faith, when guided by justice and mercy, can transcend religious and ethnic boundaries. 

ANA noted that his example serves as a model for authors, intellectuals, and community leaders who use their voices to promote dialogue, understanding, and social cohesion.

ANA prayed for the peaceful repose of Imam Abdullahi Abubakar’s soul, asking Allah to grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. 

The association reaffirmed its commitment to celebrating and preserving his legacy, urging writers and society at large to continue drawing lessons from a life that proved courage, compassion, and humanity can shine even in the darkest of times.

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.