₦airaland Forum

MY AMERICAN BOOK READING TOUR; ECHOES OF AN ANGRY DIASPORA BY WALE OKEDIRAN

New York, US. February 13, 2013. A very cold morning. I am sitting amidst the clutter of my books and luggage at the arrival hall of JFK airport at the start of my 10-day, 5 Cities Book Reading Tour of the United States of America, courtesy of Arik Air International.

My tour was in two phases. The first leg took me to Fort Lauderdale and Tallahassee both in Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Pennsylvania in Philadelphia with a stop- over in New York at the Headquarters of the Arik Air International.

Six months later in September of the same year, I embarked on the second leg of the tour which took me to six major US cities on both sides of the North American Continent. Dubbed 'The Coast to Coast US Book Reading Tour' the tour which featured engagements with a rich mix of academic and public US communities took me to Atlanta, Georgia, Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts, Providence, Rhode Island, New York and Los Angeles, California.

My audience was a warm and enthusiastic crowd of academics, business people, civil servants, book lovers, writers, and friends. I also had encounters with scholars and students at some of the schools where I read. These included; the North Campus of Broward College in Coconut Creek, Florida, University of Pennsylvania, Harvard University, Boston, University of Massachusetts, Amherst and Providence College, Rhode Island.

I had gone to America to read from my then new book, a political thriller; Tenants Of The House which was later adapted into a movie with a 2-year run on NETFLIX global. All I wanted to do was read, interact with my audience and help to market the book. However, I must have either underestimated the power of my narrative or that of my audience which was largely made up of Africans in the diaspora.

Even though I was warmly received everywhere I went to read and my book received praises for its audacious and incisive dissection of the ‘African problem’, the whole tour was a stimulus for scathing remarks about the ‘homeland’.

Although New York had already recovered from a devastating and horrendous adverse weather which had left the city comatose for some days and even caused a two -day delay in my tour, it was still very cold at 6am when my Sky Blue flight took off for Fort Lauderdale, Florida that day. It was a large aircraft which was filled to the brim by what I was made to understand, people escaping the cold of New York for the warmth of Florida. It was a smooth and enjoyable 3-hour flight made more interesting by the generous and free in-flight refreshments.

On arrival in Florida, I was met at the Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood Airport by Joane Meikel, an amiable young lady from the Students’ Affairs Department of Broward College, Coconut Creek where I was scheduled to give my first reading.

The trip from Fort Lauderdale to Coconut Creek took about 30 minutes and afforded me the opportunity to see more of the beauty of Broward County. The warm and breezy climate was a far departure from the cold New York. And in addition to the beautiful tree lined streets, Florida was exactly as it was described, a haven for tourists.

Fighting back jet lag, I delved into ‘Tenants Of The House’ (TOTH) to an enthusiastic and mixed audience of students, scholars, friends and writers. Since I had sent advance copies of the book ahead of the readings, it was easy for the audience especially students to follow my presentation.

The questions and contributions that followed said as much. ‘How long did it take you to write the book?’ ‘What was the reaction of your colleagues in the Nigerian Parliament when the book was released?’ ‘Who is Lizzy in the book?’ ‘Has democracy improved the standard of living for Nigerians?’ In addition, were many other questions on the state of democracy and governance in Africa.

Some of the more elderly members of the audience apparently overwhelmed by the seemingly intractable socio-economic and security issues in the continent, especially Nigeria, wondered if all was well with the continent. A virulent commentator at one point even wondered if we didn’t make a mistake by asking for independence.

Another disturbing remark came from an elderly Professor who vowed never to go back to his country again. According to him; “The scars of my last encounter with armed robbers in my country are a sad reminder of the place I used to call home’’.

In my quest to see a little of America, I opted to go by road to my next destination, Tallahassee, the capital of the state of Florida. Located at the northern tip of the finger-like shaped state next to the border of Georgia State, Tallahassee is 736 km away from Fort Lauderdale with a driving time of 7 hours 3 minutes by the Greyhound Bus.

As if on cue, many of the questions and interventions raised at Fort Lauderdale also came up in Tallahassee. ‘Why did you write TOTH?’ ‘How much of TOTH is your own personal story?’ ‘Can corruption be tamed in Africa?’ ‘Have things improved in Nigeria since you wrote your books?’ ‘What is the government doing about the ‘Boko Haram’ problem?’

Without appearing to be a government mouth piece, I did my best to reassure the audience that all hope was not lost and that with more efforts by all and sundry, Nigeria could still become the country of our dreams. Judging from the bemused expressions on the faces of most of my audience, I wasn’t sure if my reassuring words cut any with them.

My Atlanta reading took place at FAD Restaurant, a Nigerian restaurant located at 3565 Austell Road, SW Marietta where the proprietor, whom I had met on a previous trip to Atlanta, did all he could do to make the event a success.

Expectedly, after my reading, questions and contributions dwelled mostly on the political situation in Africa. As usual, African politicians were accused of being the cause of the problem. The animated discussion that followed the reading was even more strident than the one in Tallahassee with the majority of the Atlanta audience declaring Africa a lost cause.

Although this position was not unexpected, still it was surprising coming from the Atlanta group that was relatively younger than the Tallahassee one whom I thought, should have been more hopeful. Matters were not helped by some shocking experiences of some members of the audience who had visited home previously.

At the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, my experience was the same. As in the other readings, majority of the audience was very passionate about the socio-political situations in Africa and Nigeria. A particularly truculent middle aged man was vehement in his belief that the country should be split along ethnic and religious lines.

“The earlier we all agree that Nigeria is not working, the better for all of us,” he thundered. He was joined in this tirade by some other participants and before long, the hitherto quiet and academic setting became a passionate scene reminiscent of a village square meeting; everybody wanted to talk.

It became very difficult for the MC for the evening’s event to bring proceedings to an end at the 9.00pm time limit given by the university authorities. At one point, the MC’s father a Philadelphia based physician jumped up and said, “I am sorry, as your Dad, I will like to talk and you have to allow me.” As the audience erupted into a hearty laughter, he followed up with a very animated speech about Africa and ‘her problems’. Thankfully, he also proffered some solutions.

Diaspora rage has been defined as a very complex and deep anger and frustration felt by people who are part of a diaspora—people who live outside of their ancestral homeland. Conflicting expectations, historical trauma, diasporic rage generally responds to these things by refusing to stay silent about injustice, reclaiming identity and culture, critiquing both “host” and ancestral countries’ institutions, etc.

According to an authority on the matter; ‘’Diaspora rage is an emotional and political response to cultural erasure, feeling disconnected from your roots, and the strange, inescapable understanding of being viewed as ‘other’ or not quite native in your current country and foreign, not completely accepted, in your country of origin. It also includes the weight of representing multiple different communities while feeling ultimately voiceless in both spaces. The systematic oppression that tails diasporic population across countries’’
Much as this kind of anger is understandable and sometimes justified, it is believed that many diasporans often overreact.

In an article in an edition of African Nation, Baffour Ankomah, a UK based Ghanaian journalist had this to say; ‘’ Being in diaspora – can make you mad! It even builds in you a disturbing level of superciliousness that makes you thump your nose at almost everything you see especially when you go back home.

Everything suddenly becomes “not-your-level”, even though you may be living in some decrepit flat back in London or Berlin or New York.’’

According to Baffour ‘’What is the point I am trying to make. I was in Israel in 1986 and saw the huge contribution of the Jewish Diaspora to nation building. Israel is Israel today because of the Jewish diaspora. Though they are nationals of their adopted countries, they still contribute financially, politically, intellectually and culturally to the growth of Israel, and lobby foreign governments on behalf of Israel. Besides, they return and enrich Israel with the experiences they have from their adopted countries’’.

Another member of the diaspora from Nigeria whom I met during my reading tour believes that disaporans can do more than just sending remittances to their friends and relatives back home or building mansions in which they never come back to live, or worse still, coming back in a coffin, to lie briefly in it before interment.

According to him; ‘’We have to take an active interest in the political, intellectual, and cultural lives of our mother countries. By dint of our long stay abroad, we see things that the locals do not see. Let’s bring these experiences to enrich our countries. What gets me angry with some folks in the diaspora is that they luxuriate in the economic feast of some of the world’s developed countries where they have taken citizenship and have the temerity to criticize those who love their home countries stayed, endured and contributed while suffering’’.

On my last day in the US, my friends in New York took me to a Chinese Restaurant for dinner. After a hearty meal of Peking soup, spring rolls, steamed rice, duck and chicken sauce, I cracked open the Chinese fortune cookie that the waitress handed over to me. ‘Expect a future of hard work and happiness’ it read. It was a befitting epitaph to a successful and eventful book reading tour.

DEACONESS AKINTOLA CHRISTIANAH TO HEADLINE ANA OSUN SEPTEMBER READING
The Osun State Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA Osun) has announced that its September Monthly Reading will be headlined by Deaconess Akintola Christianah, a prolific author whose works have gained recognition across Nigeria. The literary gathering is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Ila Bar, Madam Aderinu Shopping Complex, Gbongan Road, MDS, Osogbo, Osun State, beginning at 12 PM.
This was contained in a press statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary of ANA Osun, Odetayo Wasiu Mobewaji and Olaonipekun Olatunde, who described the event as another milestone in the Association’s commitment to celebrating literary excellence and deepening the reading culture in Osun State.
Deaconess Akintola Christianah is a retired civil servant, accomplished author, mother, grandmother, and minister of the gospel. She is married to Pastor M. A. Akintola and has dedicated her life to the service of humanity, both in her professional and spiritual pursuits.
She served as the Coordinator of the Chartered Institute of Certified Secretaries and Reporters for ten years until her retirement from the civil service in 2012. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, she received the Institute’s highest professional award (MCICSR) in 2007 at Enugu and was honored with the Osun State Merit Award in 2009.
As a writer, Akintola Christianah has authored six published prose works that continue to resonate with readers across Nigeria. Her titles include Wasted Endurance, The Exit of a King, Are You Longing for Egypt?, Is Salvation Free?, Spiritual Pride, and The Great Commission. Many of her works are already being used in schools across more than ten states of the federation.
The upcoming reading will offer participants an opportunity to engage directly with the author as she shares from her creative journey, her published works, and her reflections on faith, literature, and society. It will also serve as an avenue for writers, readers, and literature enthusiasts to network and exchange ideas.
According to ANA Osun, the September Reading will not only spotlight Akintola Christianah’s contributions but also strengthen the association’s vision of encouraging writers in Osun State to embrace the discipline of regular literary engagement. The organizers emphasized that the session promises to be both intellectually stimulating and spiritually uplifting.
The event is open to writers, readers, and the general public who are passionate about promoting creativity and sustaining a vibrant literary culture. ANA Osun encourages participation from literary enthusiasts, students, and lovers of books, as the platform remains a rallying point for nurturing creativity in the state.
For participation and further inquiries, interested individuals are advised to contact 08160881375 for directions and additional details about the event.

ADWINSA PUBLICATIONS NIGERIA CELEBRATES FOUNDER, CHIEF NANA KWABENA AMPONSAH, AT 80
The Nigerian Branch of Adwinsa Publications (Adwinsa Publications Nigeria Limited), an offshoot of Adwinsa Publications Ghana Limited, has congratulated the founder of the publishing firm, Chief Nana Kwabena Amponsah, on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
This was contained in a press statement issued by the Coordinator of Adwinsa Publications Nigeria Limited, Wole Adedoyin, who praised Chief Amponsah’s remarkable contributions to the growth of African publishing and his dedication to the promotion of education across the continent.
Founded in March 1977 in Madina, a suburb of Accra, Ghana, Adwinsa Publications began as a modest business operated from Chief Amponsah’s home. Over the years, the company has grown into one of the most reputable indigenous publishing houses in West Africa, impacting generations of learners and writers.
By the late 1980s, the company relocated from Madina to Accra Newtown, marking a new phase in its expansion. It was during this period that Adwinsa Publications embraced emerging technologies such as desktop publishing and commercial offset printing, which significantly boosted its capacity and efficiency.
From 2000 to 2014, Adwinsa Publications continued to strengthen its presence as a household name in the publishing sector, establishing itself as a pioneer in providing supplementary readers and textbooks that became staples in Ghanaian schools. This achievement further underscored the vision of its founder, who believed strongly in education as the backbone of national development.
Chief Nana Kwabena Amponsah’s enduring legacy was further recognized when he received a special award from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Publishing Department for being a trailblazer in the Ghanaian book industry. This accolade reflected his lifelong commitment to fostering academic growth through quality publishing.
Today, Adwinsa Publications remains a market leader in Ghana, dominating the educational sector with Junior and Senior High School syllabus-based textbooks, as well as literature that celebrates Ghana’s rich cultural heritage. Its reputation for excellence has made it a trusted partner for students, parents, governments, and the international academic community.
In his congratulatory message, Wole Adedoyin emphasized that Adwinsa Publications Nigeria stands proudly on the foundation laid by Chief Amponsah. He noted that the founder’s passion for family-oriented education has continued to inspire the company’s focus on developing textbooks for basic, secondary, and tertiary institutions, thereby nurturing generations of African learners.
“As a family-owned company, one of Adwinsa Publications’ greatest strengths has always been its commitment to education as a tool for long-term family and societal development. Chief Amponsah’s vision and dedication remain guiding lights for us in Nigeria as we continue to expand our reach and impact,” Adedoyin stated.
The Nigerian branch joins staff, authors, students, and well-wishers across Ghana, Nigeria, and beyond in celebrating the remarkable life and legacy of Chief Nana Kwabena Amponsah, wishing him good health, continued wisdom, and many more fruitful years ahead.

WRITERS HAIL GBADEGA ADEDAPO AT 60, CELEBRATE HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO PUBLISHING
The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) has congratulated Mr. Gbadega Adedapo on the occasion of his 60th birthday.
This was contained in a press statement issued by the President of SYNW, Wole Adedoyin, in Ibadan on Saturday.
According to the statement, SYNW described Mr. Adedapo as a towering figure in the Nigerian publishing industry whose remarkable contributions have shaped the growth and global recognition of the sector. The writers’ body lauded his decades of dedication to advancing literature, publishing, and knowledge dissemination in Nigeria and beyond.
Born sixty years ago, Mr. Adedapo is an accomplished scholar and professional. He holds a first degree in Computer Science from Ogun State University, Ago-Iwoye (now Olabisi Onabanjo University). He also obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and has consistently enhanced his knowledge through specialized international professional certifications.
Some of his distinguished certifications include: a Certificate in Developing a Successful Publishing Strategy (Cover Concepts, Design and Digital Publishing) from New York University; a Certificate in Strategic Publishing Management: Gaining the Competitive Edge from The Publishing Training Centre, London; and a Certificate in Cross Boundaries & Expansion of Publishing Opportunities from The George Washington University in partnership with the World Bank.
Mr. Adedapo is the Managing Director/CEO of Accessible Publishers Limited (formerly Rasmed Publications Ltd), a leading indigenous publishing firm. He also serves on the boards of Best Technologies Limited and Best in Print Consults, Nigeria.
Beyond his entrepreneurial strides, Mr. Adedapo has also held key leadership positions in the Nigerian and international publishing communities. He is a former Chairman of the Nigerian Book Fair Trust and the immediate past President of the Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA), where he spearheaded significant reforms and represented Nigeria on the global publishing stage.
At the international level, Mr. Adedapo continues to distinguish himself as a serving Executive Committee Member of the International Publishers Association (IPA), Switzerland. He also sits on the board of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), playing a vital role in shaping educational policies and publishing standards in the country.
Currently, he serves as the Chairman of the Reproduction Rights Society of Nigeria (REPRONIG), where he is driving initiatives to protect and promote copyright, intellectual property rights, and the sustainability of creative industries in Nigeria.
In its congratulatory message, SYNW praised Mr. Adedapo for his visionary leadership, mentorship, and passion for the publishing profession. “Mr. Adedapo has set a benchmark for excellence and has inspired many young writers and publishers to pursue their dreams with courage and resilience,” the statement noted.
The Society of Young Nigerian Writers concluded by wishing Mr. Adedapo many more fruitful years in good health, wisdom, and prosperity. It further expressed hope that his 60th birthday would usher in a new phase of greater achievements and continued service to humanity, Nigerian literature, and the global publishing industry.

IBADAN BOOK DIALOGUE TO SPOTLIGHT GANI EKPOBARI MARTIN AND AJAYI OLAYINKA JAMES
The Ibadan Book Club (IBC), in partnership with the Milton Society of Africa, has announced that its forthcoming edition of the Ibadan Book Dialogue will feature two distinguished writers, Gani Ekpobari Martin and Ajayi Olayinka James. The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 12:00 PM in the Board Room of the Oyo State Library Board, located opposite Cocoa House in Dugbe, Ibadan.
The Ibadan Book Dialogue is one of the club’s flagship literary platforms designed to promote reading culture, celebrate authors, and foster intellectual conversations around literature, society, and development. Over the years, it has brought together both established and emerging voices in Nigerian writing to engage with the public in meaningful discourse.
Speaking on the upcoming event, Wole Adedoyin, Founder of the Ibadan Book Club, expressed excitement over the inclusion of the two guest writers, noting that their unique perspectives will enrich the dialogue. “Gani Ekpobari Martin and Ajayi Olayinka James embody the diversity of Nigerian literary and intellectual talent. Their works and activism reflect the values we hold dear—literary excellence, social consciousness, and creative engagement,” he stated.
Gani Ekpobari Martin hails from Buan in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. A distinguished academic scholar, an erudite in literary studies, and an engineer by profession, he has authored several books including The Broken Shackles, Korkade, The Drives for Money, The Voice of My Father, The Chained Foreigner, Tears of an Old Woman, What My Mother Told Me, Jennifer My Best Friend, and King Tortoise.
His literary contributions have not gone unnoticed, as his works have been adopted by State Ministries of Education in Rivers, Bayelsa, Anambra, and Abia for use in Junior Secondary School Basic Certificate Examinations (Junior WAEC). This recognition underscores his influence as a writer whose stories resonate deeply within Nigeria’s educational and cultural framework.
Beyond writing, Gani is also a social activist dedicated to youth and community development. He currently serves as Secretary-General of the Ogoni Youth Advancement Network, Secretary-General of the Association of Rivers State Creative Writers, and President of the Movement of Rivers Youth for Transparency. He is also an active member of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA). Presently, he is an academic staff member at the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Oyo State.
On the other hand, Ajayi Olayinka James, a final-year Law student at the University of Ibadan, brings youthful vigor and intellectual depth to the dialogue. A passionate essayist and recipient of scholarships, Olayinka has distinguished himself as both a writer and student journalist. He served as the former Editor-in-Chief of a reputable campus press organization, where he used the media to highlight social and student-related issues.
In addition, Olayinka is an active environmental and human rights advocate with a strong commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly climate action. His leadership extends to mentoring peers, tutoring aspiring professionals, and driving personal and career development initiatives within student organizations.
Through their combined experiences as a seasoned scholar and an emerging advocate-writer, Gani Ekpobari Martin and Ajayi Olayinka James promise to deliver an engaging and inspiring session at the Ibadan Book Dialogue. Their stories, writings, and activism align with the event’s mission of using literature as a tool for awareness, empowerment, and social transformation.
The Ibadan Book Club and Milton Society of Africa, therefore, invite book lovers, students, academics, and members of the public to attend this highly anticipated event and participate in what promises to be a thought-provoking literary gathering.

IBADAN BOOK CLUB JOINS WELL-WISHERS TO CONSOLE YINKA AYEFELE OVER FIRE INCIDENT
The Ibadan Book Club has extended its heartfelt sympathy to renowned musician and broadcaster, Dr. Yinka Ayefele, over the recent inferno that gutted sections of his radio station, Fresh FM, Ibadan.
This was contained in a press statement issued in Ibadan by the Founder of the Club, Wole Adedoyin, who described the unfortunate incident as a great loss not only to Ayefele but also to the entire broadcasting and entertainment community in Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
The statement noted that Fresh FM Ibadan has, over the years, become a household name in the Nigerian media space, providing credible information, entertainment, and education to millions of listeners across the Southwest and beyond.
According to the Book Club, Ayefele’s resilience and vision in establishing and sustaining Fresh FM despite earlier life challenges remain an inspiration to countless Nigerians. The Club added that it was saddened to learn of the destruction caused by the fire outbreak.
Adedoyin further stressed that the incident should be seen as a temporary setback, expressing optimism that Ayefele, with his indomitable spirit, would bounce back stronger. He emphasized that Fresh FM has grown to become a cultural hub that has positively impacted literature, arts, and youth development in the region.
The statement also recalled the collaborative roles Fresh FM Ibadan has played in promoting arts, culture, and education, highlighting that the station has consistently supported book readings, literary discussions, and awareness on societal development issues.
The Ibadan Book Club urged the public and government at all levels to rally round Ayefele and Fresh FM in order to ensure that the station returns to full operations without much delay. It emphasized that institutions such as Fresh FM are too important to be allowed to fade into silence.
While expressing its solidarity with the staff and management of the station, the Club prayed for divine strength, provision, and wisdom for Ayefele as he works towards restoring normalcy.

IHRAM ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS POETRY COMPETITION
The African Secretariat of the International Human Rights Art Movement (IHRAM) has officially announced the winners of its recently concluded African Human Rights Poetry Competition. This announcement was contained in a statement released by the Coordinator of the Competition, Wole Adedoyin, and made available to the press.
According to the statement, the Longlist, Shortlist, and final winners were carefully selected by a panel of distinguished judges comprising Khalid Imam, Nkwetatang Sampson Nguekie, and Thomas Block, alongside other members of the IHRAM team at the organization’s international headquarters in New York. Their combined expertise ensured that the competition upheld the highest standards of literary and human rights advocacy.
The Coordinator, Wole Adedoyin, disclosed that the competition attracted a remarkable total of 350 entries from 25 countries, representing a broad spectrum of experiences, cultures, and perspectives. This impressive participation underscored the global relevance of human rights issues and the unifying power of poetry in speaking truth to power.
Entries came from countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Zambia, Côte d’Ivoire, Thailand, India, South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Mauritius, Liberia, Burkina Faso, Rwanda, Canada, Jamaica, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, USA, Egypt, Botswana, Malawi, Madagascar, Tunisia, and Cameroon. This wide geographical spread reflected the competition’s global reach and the universal appeal of its mission.
The African Human Rights Poetry Competition was founded with the primary aim of amplifying the voices of poets committed to the advocacy of justice, equality, and human dignity. The shortlisted poets courageously addressed pressing issues such as political repression, gender-based violence, child exploitation, freedom of expression, and other urgent human rights concerns, using the power of their art to inspire awareness and change.
As a platform, the African Human Rights Poetry Competition offers both emerging and established poets an opportunity to channel their creativity into purposeful activism. The participating works served as powerful instruments of social commentary, confronting oppressive systems and spotlighting injustices often ignored in mainstream narratives.
Through this initiative, IHRAM reaffirmed its commitment to the transformative power of the arts in promoting human rights awareness and advocacy. By giving poets a stage to share their work, the organization continues to build a more equitable, compassionate, and informed society.
At the conclusion of the competition, the first prize went to Aishat Yahkub for her entry “COME, I SWEAR WE'LL LAUGH SO HARD AGAIN AND RUN ALONG ALL THE RIVERS.” The second prize was awarded to Khairat Abdulrazzaq for “BEFORE”, while the third prize went to Awountsa Tsafac Umel for “AFRICA, RISE WITH LIGHT.”
In addition to the top three winners, five honorable mentions were recognized for their exceptional contributions. These include: “BENEATH THE UNIVERSE” by Doreen Mwenda, “THE INNOCENT” by Sheriff Olanrewaju, “I AM HUMAN, TOO” by Chioma Muogbo, “JUSTICE” by Tanimu Abdullahi, and “The Black Man’s Saga” by Chukwuajah Emmanuel.
IHRAM commended all participants for their courage, creativity, and dedication to the cause of human rights. The organization expressed optimism that the competition’s impact will continue to resonate, inspiring both policymakers and ordinary citizens to work collectively towards a world where justice, freedom, and equality are not privileges, but rights for all.

AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS INTER-UNIVERSITY ESSAY COMPETITION UNVEILS LONG-LIST OF TOP ENTRIES ACROSS EIGHT COUNTRIES, FORTY FIVE INSTITUTIONS
The African Human Rights Inter-University Essay Competition has officially announced its long-list of top entries, showcasing the finest essays selected from over 80 submissions received from eight African countries. These entries emerged from more than 45 tertiary institutions, including universities, monotechnics, and colleges of education across the continent.
The competition, a flagship initiative promoting academic and social activism, provides a vital platform for university students to lend their voices to pressing human rights concerns that continue to challenge Africa’s development. Through critical thinking and rigorous research, participants explored a variety of human rights themes including gender equality, domestic violence, migration rights, youth empowerment, and environmental justice.
According to the Coordinator of the Competition, Wole Adedoyin, the long-list represents a powerful body of work that reflects both the diversity and urgency of human rights narratives across the African continent. He noted that the entries were judged based on originality, depth of analysis, and relevance to current human rights discourse.
“This year’s competition saw entries from Nigeria, South Africa, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, and Zambia,” Adedoyin stated. “The engagement of students from a wide array of disciplines shows that human rights education is gaining ground as a vital part of African academia and civic engagement.”
The long-listed entries are as follows:
1. Abolusodun Cisse Ally – Stolen Futures: The Human Cost of Trafficking Across African Borders – University of Ilorin, Nigeria
2. Ado Lawan - Batulu – Love Is Blind – Umar Suleiman College of Education Gashua, Nigeria
3. Agu Queen Obianuju – Breaking the Cycle of Domestic Violence against Women – Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu, Nigeria
4. Ajayi Olayinka James – The River That Couldn’t Speak: A Story of Environmental Justice – University of Ibadan, Nigeria
5. Ekwueme Chisom Zita – Human Trafficking: Social Networks as a Tool for Manipulation – Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu, Nigeria
6. Fabrice Niyonsenga – The Cost of Loss: How Parental Death Deepens Social and Economic Inequality in Africa – University of Rwanda, College of Education, Rwamagana, Rwanda
7. Gift Innocent – The Vow That Hurts: Exposing Gross Domestic Violence Against Women – University of Abuja, Nigeria
8. Hassan Mistura Temilola – Why Didn't She Leave? An Essay on Domestic Violence – Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Nigeria
9. Joyce Elsie Amoshaire – Beneath The Silence: Confronting Gross Domestic Violence Against Women in Sierra Leone – Milton Margai Technical University, Freetown, Sierra Leone
10. Kelechi Okoye – No One Will Save Us but Us – Lead City University, Nigeria
11. Mercy Ime Archibong – The Marginalised Africa: Freedom Interrupted – University of Calabar, Nigeria
12. Michael Ombasa Nicodemus – Bridging The Gap: Human Rights, Youth Empowerment, And Africa’s Developmental Promise – Machakos University, Kenya
13. Okeke Onyinyechi Juliet – Behind Every Closed Doors: The Silent Epidemic of Domestic Violence Against Women – Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu, Nigeria
14. Pacella Chukwuma-Eke – Agnus Dei – Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Nigeria
15. Peter Mkpoikanke – Beyond Rhetoric: A Critical Sociological Examination of Gender Equality in Contemporary Africa – University of Calabar, Nigeria
16. Sakariyah Ridwanullah – Gender Equality: Gateway to Africa’s Democratic and Human Rights Development – Lagos State University, Nigeria
17. Toroitich Jalody – Puppet Leaders: The Illusion of African Citizens’ Participation in the Government – Kenyatta University, Kenya
18. Ugonna Nmesoma – Memories of a River – Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
19. Uzoechina Godswill Chidubem – Bandages Without Borders: Reclaiming Healthcare Access and Migration Rights in Africa – University of Nigeria, Nsukka
20. Yves Mugisha – Rising For the Rights – Catholic University of Rwanda (CUR), Rwanda
The African Human Rights Inter-University Essay Competition not only promotes dialogue and research around the continent’s most pressing issues but also helps to spotlight emerging scholars and advocates. With the unveiling of the longlist, the next stage of the competition will see the selection of the top finalists and eventual winners, who will be awarded and recognized for their exceptional contributions to African human rights discourse.

ADWINSA PUBLICATIONS UNVEILS NIGERIAN STUDENTS’ LITERATURE PRIZE, SEEKS SUPPORT AND PARTNERSHIP
In a bold and commendable move aimed at promoting literary excellence among young Nigerians, Adwinsa Publications Nigeria Limited has officially launched the Nigerian Students’ Literature Prize (NSLP).
The literary award initiative is targeted at discovering and celebrating fresh creative writing talents from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
This announcement was made in a press statement jointly signed by Kwaku Oppong Amponsah, Director of the Company, and Wole Adedoyin, Nigerian Coordinator of Adwinsa Publications.
According to the statement, the Nigerian Students’ Literature Prize will provide a robust platform for nurturing and showcasing the literary abilities of students through competitions in poetry, short stories, and essays. The prize is expected to play a key role in revitalizing reading and writing culture among young Nigerians at all levels of education.
Adwinsa Publications Nigeria Limited, a duly registered publishing firm with the Corporate Affairs Commission (Registration Number: 667617), and known for its strong legacy in educational development, emphasized that the prize aligns with the company’s long-standing mission to inspire creativity and critical thinking in young minds. The Nigerian Students’ Literature Prize marks the second major initiative of the publishing house, following the successful implementation of its flagship project, the Read Nigeria Project.
Speaking on the importance of the prize, Wole Adedoyin said the initiative is a deliberate effort to encourage young Nigerian writers to find their voices early. “We are passionate about building a strong literary future for Nigeria. This prize is our contribution to national development through the power of literature,” he said.
Kwaku Oppong Amponsah called on government institutions, private organizations, publishing stakeholders, NGOs, and philanthropists to support and partner with Adwinsa Publications to expand the reach and impact of the prize. “This is not just about an award; it is about empowering the future generation of Nigerian writers and thinkers. We welcome sponsorship, technical partnerships, and collaborations that can elevate this vision,” he noted.
Entries for the Nigerian Students’ Literature Prize will be open to students enrolled in accredited Nigerian schools, colleges, and universities. Participants will be grouped into three categories based on their academic level, and each category will feature a tailored set of literary challenges and rewards. The competition will also include workshops, mentorship sessions, and nationwide readings.
Adwinsa Publications Nigeria Limited also announced plans to publish a biennial anthology featuring the best entries from the competition. This publication, the statement noted, will serve as both a reward and an exposure opportunity for budding authors, while also contributing to the body of student literature in the country.
The organizers further disclosed that a dedicated blog and social media channels for the NSLP would be launched in the coming weeks to provide updates, entry guidelines, and resources for participants and partners. Regional coordinators are also being appointed to ensure inclusivity and wide participation across the six geopolitical zones.
Adwinsa Publications Nigeria Limited reaffirmed its commitment to promoting literacy, intellectual development, and literary excellence among Nigerian youth. With the unveiling of the Nigerian Students’ Literature Prize, the publishing house sets a new milestone in its educational outreach, and calls on all stakeholders to rally around the initiative for its sustainability and success.

NWAOBILOR, ASEFON TO HEADLINE BUSARI AGBOLADE MEMORIAL READING
The duo of Nwaobilor Vincent Chukwuebuka, and Asefon Abdulganeey Stephen have been announced as the headliners for this year’s Busari Agbolade Memorial Reading. The event, which pays tribute to the life and legacy of the late Elder Busari Agbolade, promises a rich blend of literature, poetry, and performance art, led by these two outstanding young creatives.
Originally intended to be the 2025 edition of the annual Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture, the event was restructured into a memorial reading and performance poetry session due to logistical adjustments. Despite the change in format, the essence of the tribute remains intact, celebrating Elder Agbolade’s enduring influence on literature, culture, and creative expression.
Scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the Oyo State Library Board, opposite Cocoa House, Dugbe, Ibadan, the event will begin at 12 PM. According to a statement issued by the Founder of the Ibadan Book Club, Wole Adedoyin, the reading will serve as a vibrant platform for literary enthusiasts to gather, connect, and honour the creative legacy of the departed cultural icon.
Adedoyin noted that the memorial will spotlight the creative journeys of student-writers and performers, offering them a space to showcase their talents and engage with a broad audience of readers, writers, and cultural stakeholders. He emphasized that the event is part of a continued effort to sustain Elder Agbolade’s vision of fostering literary excellence, cultural pride, and intellectual development within the community.
The event is organized by Ibadan Book Club in conjunction with the Ulli Beier Society.
NWAOBILOR VINCENT CHUKWUEBUKA is a Nigerian writer whose creative expression spans poetry, fiction, and essays. A passionate and emerging literary voice, he is currently pursuing a degree in English and Education at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
In 2024, Vincent gained national recognition when he emerged as the winner of the Wittypel Poetry Competition for Young Nigerian Poets, a prestigious platform celebrating literary excellence among the country’s youth. His work has also received international attention, having been featured in the latest edition of the Bridgett James Poetry Anthology, a globally respected annual publication showcasing outstanding poetic talents from around the world.
Vincent continues to explore themes of identity, society, and human experience through his writing, positioning himself as one of the promising voices in contemporary African literature.
ASEFON ABDULGANEEY STEPHEN is a critic, poet, and a deeply humane individual whose personality and values have profoundly shaped his writing journey. Originally from Ondo State, he currently resides in Ibadan, where the city's vibrant social and cultural environment continues to influence his literary voice and vision.
Stephen strongly believes in the transformative power of words to challenge suppression, resist oppression, and address societal injustices. While his works are yet to gain broad exposure, they remain a powerful tool for shaping thoughts, perspectives, and understanding among those who encounter them.
An ardent ekphrastic poet, Stephen draws inspiration from visual art—whether paintings or photographs—often finding that his pen begins to bleed verses unconsciously in response. His commitment to socially conscious poetry and his passion for the arts mark him as a thoughtful and promising literary voice.

OLASUNKANMI, NWAOBILOR, ASEFON TO HEADLINE BUSARI AGBOLADE MEMORIAL READING

The trio of Damilare Olasunkanmi (Arole Akewi), Nwaobilor Vincent Chukwuebuka, and Asefon Abdulganeey Stephen have been announced as the headliners for this year’s Busari Agbolade Memorial Reading.

The event, which pays tribute to the life and legacy of the late Elder Busari Agbolade, promises a rich blend of literature, poetry, and performance art, led by these three outstanding young creatives.

Originally intended to be the 2025 edition of the annual Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture, the event was restructured into a memorial reading and performance poetry session due to logistical adjustments. Despite the change in format, the essence of the tribute remains intact, celebrating Elder Agbolade’s enduring influence on literature, culture, and creative expression.

Scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the Oyo State Library Board, opposite Cocoa House, Dugbe, Ibadan, the event will begin at 12 PM. According to a statement issued by the Founder of the Ibadan Book Club, Wole Adedoyin, the reading will serve as a vibrant platform for literary enthusiasts to gather, connect, and honour the creative legacy of the departed cultural icon.

Adedoyin noted that the memorial will spotlight the creative journeys of student-writers and performers, offering them a space to showcase their talents and engage with a broad audience of readers, writers, and cultural stakeholders. He emphasized that the event is part of a continued effort to sustain Elder Agbolade’s vision of fostering literary excellence, cultural pride, and intellectual development within the community.

The event is organized by Ibadan Book Club in conjunction with the Ulli Beier Society.

DAMILARE OLASUNKANMI (Arole Akewi) is a dynamic actor, director, and choreographer renowned for his ability to interpret plays through powerful actions and movements. His artistic brilliance has been showcased across various corporate and social platforms nationwide. Notably, he performed a drama piece during the coronation of the late Olubadan of Ibadan, delivered a captivating dance performance during the World Sango Day celebration in Oyo, and recently shared the stage with renowned Nollywood actor, Razak Olayiwola (Ojopagogo), during the 50th birthday celebration of the Alaafin of Oyo.

As a director, Damilare has led the production of more than ten stage plays for institutions of higher learning, including: Oba Koso by Duro Ladipo (2021), Arimgindin and the Night Watchmen by Wale Ogunyemi (2021), Bashorun Gaa by Adebayo Faleti (2024) and Kurunmi by Ola Rotimi (2024), among others.

In addition to directing, he has also featured as an actor in several notable stage productions such as Oba Koso, Drum Ignominy, Yemoja, and Obaluye. His talent extends into the Nigerian film industry, where he has appeared in films including Yokolenu, Akanke Oba, Rogedi, and Iyalode, to mention a few.

Damilare Olasunkanmi is a passionate and committed creative who continues to strive for excellence in the arts. He is currently focused on promoting his craft to a broader audience, ensuring that his cultural and artistic heritage remains impactful and enduring.

NWAOBILOR VINCENT CHUKWUEBUKA is a Nigerian writer whose creative expression spans poetry, fiction, and essays. A passionate and emerging literary voice, he is currently pursuing a degree in English and Education at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

In 2024, Vincent gained national recognition when he emerged as the winner of the Wittypel Poetry Competition for Young Nigerian Poets, a prestigious platform celebrating literary excellence among the country’s youth. His work has also received international attention, having been featured in the latest edition of the Bridgett James Poetry Anthology, a globally respected annual publication showcasing outstanding poetic talents from around the world.

Vincent continues to explore themes of identity, society, and human experience through his writing, positioning himself as one of the promising voices in contemporary African literature.

ASEFON ABDULGANEEY STEPHEN is a critic, poet, and a deeply humane individual whose personality and values have profoundly shaped his writing journey. Originally from Ondo State, he currently resides in Ibadan, where the city's vibrant social and cultural environment continues to influence his literary voice and vision.

Stephen strongly believes in the transformative power of words to challenge suppression, resist oppression, and address societal injustices. While his works are yet to gain broad exposure, they remain a powerful tool for shaping thoughts, perspectives, and understanding among those who encounter them.

An ardent ekphrastic poet, Stephen draws inspiration from visual art—whether paintings or photographs—often finding that his pen begins to bleed verses unconsciously in response. His commitment to socially conscious poetry and his passion for the arts mark him as a thoughtful and promising literary voice.

IBADAN BOOK CLUB, ULLI BEIER SOCIETY TO HOLD MEMORIAL READING IN HONOUR OF LATE BUSARI AGBOLADE

The Ibadan Book Club, in collaboration with the Ulli Beier Society, has announced plans to host a special book reading and performance poetry session in honour of the late Elder Busari Agbolade.

The event, originally intended to be this year’s edition of the annual Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture, was restructured due to logistical reasons. This change, however, has not diminished the essence of the tribute, which now shifts to a dynamic format celebrating literature and performance.

The memorial event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the Oyo State Library Board, located opposite Cocoa House, Dugbe, Ibadan. According to a press statement issued by the Founder of Ibadan Book Club, Wole Adedoyin, the event will begin at 12 PM and promises to provide a vibrant platform for young writers, poets, and literary enthusiasts to gather and commemorate the life and legacy of Elder Agbolade through words and artistic expression.

Adedoyin emphasized that the event will allow student-writers and performers to share their works, reflect on their literary journeys, and interact with an engaged audience comprising book lovers, fellow creatives, and stakeholders in the cultural community. The event seeks to continue Elder Agbolade’s legacy of promoting intellectual development, cultural engagement, and the preservation of Yoruba heritage through literature and the arts.

Over the years, the Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture series has evolved into a significant platform for artistic reflection and cultural discourse. The inaugural edition held on May 29, 2021, was themed “Extending Creative Legacy”, and featured Murthada Lawal, who delivered a compelling lecture that underscored the importance of sustaining creative traditions.

The second edition, held on July 30, 2022, explored “The Importance of Drawing and Painting in Writing”, with visual artists Kola Akintola and Gbenga Akintayo delivering insightful presentations on the intersection of visual arts and literature, highlighting how illustrations can deepen storytelling and narrative expression.

The third edition, themed “Dance as an Expression of Culture”, took place on July 29, 2023, and featured renowned dancer and choreographer Christopher Emmanuel. His performance and lecture captivated audiences, demonstrating the power of movement in preserving oral traditions and community storytelling.

The most recent edition, held on July 27, 2024, featured Mr. Toyin Alade as the guest lecturer. Alade’s discourse focused on the “Impact of Atelier Practices on 21st Century Art” and offered a dreamscape view into the works of Abayomi Barber, enriching attendees with new dimensions of creative exploration and innovation.

One of the highlights of this year’s memorial reading will be a special performance by Damilare Olasunkanmi (Arole Akewi), a prolific actor, director, and choreographer known for his dynamic theatrical interpretations. Olasunkanmi’s work spans landmark performances across Nigeria, including cultural festivals and academic theatre productions, making him a befitting artist to honour the cultural legacy of Elder Agbolade.

The event will also feature poetic presentations by three emerging literary voices: Nwaobilor Vincent Chukwuebuka, winner of the 2024 Wittypel Poetry Competition and contributor to the Bridgett James Poetry Anthology; Asefon Abdulganeey Stephen, an ekphrastic poet and social critic; and other guest contributors who will lend their voices to the memory of Elder Agbolade through poetry and prose.

The Ibadan Book Club invites members of the public, writers, artists, cultural enthusiasts, and the entire literary community to be part of this memorable occasion. The event will not only celebrate Elder Agbolade’s life and contributions but also inspire a new generation to uphold the values he embodied—creativity, cultural awareness, and community development.

IHRAM UNVEILS LONGLIST OF 58 POETS FOR AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS POETRY COMPETITION
The African Secretariat of the International Human Rights Art Movement (IHRAM) has officially unveiled the longlist for its African Human Rights Poetry Competition. A total of fifty-eight poets have been selected for the longlist following the conclusion of the competition’s first phase, which recorded an overwhelming response from poets and human rights advocates across the world.
According to the Coordinator of the African Human Rights Poetry Competition, Wole Adedoyin, the competition received a remarkable total of 350 entries from 25 countries, showcasing the diverse, vibrant, and courageous voices engaging with critical human rights themes through poetry. This wide-ranging participation reflects the global relevance of human rights issues and the enduring power of poetry to address them.
Entries were received from Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, Zambia, Côte d’Ivoire, Thailand, India, South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Mauritius, Liberia, Burkina Faso, Rwanda, Canada, Jamaica, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, USA, Egypt, Botswana, Malawi, Madagascar, Tunisia, and Cameroon. This impressive spread highlights the universal concern for human rights and the collective desire to use poetry as a vehicle for change.
The African Human Rights Poetry Competition was established to amplify the voices of poets who are advocating for justice, equality, and human dignity. Through their creative works, these poets explore pressing issues such as political oppression, gender inequality, child rights, freedom of speech, and other human rights challenges that continue to affect people globally.
The unveiling of the longlist marks a major milestone in the competition’s journey. The 58 selected poets represent some of the most powerful, insightful, and thought-provoking entries that the competition received. Their works reflect a blend of personal experience, social commentary, and bold imagination, all aligned with the competition’s mission to spotlight human rights through the arts.
Wole Adedoyin expressed his appreciation to all participants for their commitment to using poetry as a tool for social justice. “These poets have given voice to the voiceless and hope to the hopeless through their words. They have demonstrated how poetry can challenge oppression and ignite conversations that lead to positive change,” he noted.
IHRAM remains steadfast in its belief that the arts play a vital role in human rights advocacy. Through this competition, the organization continues to build bridges between artists, activists, and audiences, using creative expression to foster awareness and inspire action against injustices.
In the next phase of the competition, the longlisted poems will be reviewed by a distinguished panel of judges who will select the final winners. An anthology of the longlisted works is also being planned, ensuring that these powerful voices will be preserved and shared widely as a testament to the ongoing fight for human rights.
The African Human Rights Poetry Competition has proven to be a significant platform for emerging and established poets alike, providing them with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to global conversations on justice, equality, and freedom.
Through initiatives like this, IHRAM reaffirms its dedication to harnessing the power of art for social impact, encouraging creative individuals to continue using their voices to advocate for a fairer, more humane world.
Below are the names of the shortlisted poets

1. AFRICA, RISE WITH LIGHT: Awountsa Tsafac Umel
2. HUMAN RIGHTS POETRY: Adebara Abibat Itunuoluwa
3. TWO FACES OF JUSTICE: Luper Paul Iorkongoso
4. AFRICA AND AFFAIRS OF INJUSTICE: Noah Ebije
5. RIGHTS SHOULDN'T HAVE TO KNOCK: Paul Olayimika
6. I HAVE A DREAM: Alimikhena Oshiole Grace
7. SILENCE NEVER EVEN SAVED US: Natalie Alinda Kagaba
8. REQUIEM FOR MY COUNTRY: Daniel Echezona
9. WE ARE NOT SILENT: Joyce Elsie Amoshaire Dixon
10. RECLAMATION: Evans Divine
11. A SULLEN SUNLESS SKY: Nicole Chingosha
12. WE, THE UPLIFTED ASHES: Jean-Marc AZI
13. WHAT IF?: Tracy Jamgbad
14. ECHOES OF A CHAINED NATION: Faith Kamanga
15. THE LION SPEAKS: AN AFRICAN ASSERTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS: Meme David
16. I AM JUST A YOUNG GIRL: Faith Nkuna
17. WHEN FREEDOM WEARS CHAINS: Fatokun Ibukun Paul
18. JUSTICE UNSEEN: Onyema Gift
19. OPPRESSION: Wangari Margaret Wanjiru
20. POEM: LET RIGHTS RISE: Yves MUGISHA
21. CRIES OF THE NATION: Oguguom Chidiebere
22. THE SILENCE THAT SCREAMS: Moseka Ntiyia
23. BALLAD OF A BORROWED NATION: Adjekawen Jeremiah Agberia
24. VIOLATED FOR LIFE: Oladele Babajamu
25. CHANGING THE NARRATIVE: Favour Udofot John
26. VOICES OF OUR TOMORROW: Kobe D. Wleh
27. THE PIXEL VOODOO CIRCUIT BOARD: Sarah Lubala
28. DO YOU EVER REALLY THINK?: Amos Yaubeta Sunday
29. BEAT ME NO UNEQUAL STICKS: Segun Alexandra Adeniyi
30. WHEN THE ELEPHANT SITS ON THE CHICKEN: Ebhohon Majekodunmi Oseriemen
31. IMAGINE A SOCIETY OF LAWLESSNESS: Chioma Praise Udechineke
32. ECHOES OF LIBERTY: Inneh Ifueko
33. ECHOES OF HUMANITY: Iornumbe Charles
34. HUMAN RIGHTS IN AFRICA: Oluwatamilore Oluwadarasimi Agunbiade
35. ON HUMAN RIGHTS: Comfort Nyarko
36. CLIPPED WINGS: Wahab Raimot Abike
37. IN EVERY HEART: Abdulrasheed Yakubu Ladan
38. SAY MY NAME: Ogwa Vivian Onyedibia
39. PATHWAYS TO PEACE: Moronike Bello-Olusanya
40. COLOUR BLINDNESS: Dennis Othuechere Ogu
41. STRIVING STRENGTH: Abdulmumeen Humulkhair Olamipo
42. UNSHACKLED VOICES EGBA: Samuel Patrick
43. THE GAP: Matthew Edeh
44. WHEN THE CHAINS BREAK, WILL WE RUN? Anselm Eme
45. AFRICAN WHISPERS: Daksha Sivaraj Sajjan
46. THE RIGHT TO BE: Oladejo Rachel
47. THE INNOCENT: Olanrewaju Sheriff
48. THE BLACKMANS SAGA: Chukwuajah Emmanuel
49. WAITING FOR THE ANGELS: Muhammad Hassan
50. BEFORE: Khairat Abdulrazaq
51. JUSTICE: Tanimu Abdulahi
52. BENEATH THE UNIVERSE: Doreen Mwenda
53. COME, I SWEAR WE’LL LAUGH SO HARD AGAIN AND RUN ALONG ALL RIVERS: Aishat Yahkub
54. I AM HUMAN TOO: Chioma Muogbo
55. MY DREAM, MY IDENTITY: Musa Abdulshakur Abdulkadiri
56. AFRICA'S CLARION CALL: Ogooluwa Divine Ayanfeoluwa
57. VOICES UNHEARD: Matshidiso Rachel Hlungwani
58. THE AFRICAN CRY: Zachariah Princess Gogote

WRITERS CELEBRATE OLATOUN GABI-WILLIAMS AT 60
The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW Global) has congratulated Mrs. Olatoun Gabi-Williams on the occasion of her 60th birthday, commending her unwavering dedication to literary advocacy, child education, and cultural promotion in Nigeria and beyond.
This was contained in a press statement issued by the President of the Society, Wole Adedoyin, from the organization's headquarters in Ibadan.
Adedoyin described Mrs. Gabi-Williams as "a literary visionary, a passionate advocate for children’s literacy, and a cultural ambassador whose work continues to impact lives across generations."
Olatoun Gabi-Williams boasts decades of experience in the delivery of spoken and written word content that advances literary culture, education, and advocacy. Through appearances on television, radio, and public platforms, she has consistently championed the value of books and reading while advocating for child welfare and improved literacy across Nigerian institutions.
Her media contributions have spanned a wide range of respected platforms, including Channels TV’s Sunrise, NTA 2 Channel 5’s AM Express, Close Flow, and City Lace, as well as Smooth Radio’s Smooth Review. Her dynamic presence in the media has played a critical role in shaping public discourse around books, education, and national development.
In 2014, Mrs. Gabi-Williams served as the TV host for the inaugural Nigerian Cultural Trade Show held on October 2, organized by the Nigerian-German Business Association, the AHK (Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Nigeria), the Goethe-Institut, and the German Consulate in Lagos. Her role in this high-profile event demonstrated her ability to merge literature and culture with international collaboration.
Olatoun represented Nigeria with distinction at the 2018 Frankfurt Book Fair, where she participated in the Lettres D’Afrique: Changing the Narrative programme. As a moderator, media panelist, and author interview host under the auspices of the Agence Culturelle Africaine (Senegal), she used the platform to spotlight African stories and voices in one of the world’s most prestigious book events.
Aside from her media and literary engagements, Mrs. Gabi-Williams is a Director at Selina Ventures Ltd and Selina Travels Ltd. She is also the Founder and Coordinator of Sponsor A Child Nigeria, a charitable initiative committed to enhancing literacy, education, and welfare for children in Nigerian institutions. Her work through this platform has touched countless lives across the country.
Olatoun is also the visionary behind the Ambassador Schools Program of the UN SDG Book Club African Chapter. This program connects African students and schools with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through curated reading experiences, nurturing a generation of conscious and informed youth. The platform can be accessed at sdgafricaambassadorschools.com.
Furthermore, she is the founder of the Border Books Review, a pan-African literary initiative dedicated to curating and promoting African literature, expanding its readership, and supporting emerging voices across the continent. Through this platform, she continues to challenge boundaries and connect readers with transformative stories.
The Society of Young Nigerian Writers concluded its statement by thanking Mrs. Gabi-Williams for her enduring service to literature and education. “As she marks her 60th birthday, we celebrate a woman of vision, commitment, and courage. Her legacy remains a source of inspiration for writers, educators, and advocates around the world,” the statement read.

WRITERS CONGRATULATE DR. WALE OKEDIRAN ON KWAME NKRUMAH AWARD FOR SERVICE TO PAN-AFRICANISM
Writers under the umbrella of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW Global) have congratulated Dr. Wale Okediran on his recent conferment of the prestigious Kwame Nkrumah Award for Service to Pan-Africanism.
The award was presented to Dr. Okediran during the 14th Toyin Falola International Conference on Africa and the African Diaspora (TOFAC), which took place in Osogbo, Osun State.
This congratulatory message was contained in a press release issued by the President of the Society, Wole Adedoyin. According to the release, the recognition is not only well-deserved but a testimony to Dr. Okediran’s tireless efforts in promoting African literature, unity, and cultural consciousness across the continent and beyond.
Dr. Wale Okediran, the current Secretary General of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), was singled out for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of African literature and Pan-African ideals. The award recognizes his consistent efforts in mobilizing African writers and institutions for a more united and culturally vibrant continent.
The Kwame Nkrumah Award for Service to Pan-Africanism is a highly respected honor conferred on distinguished Africans who have made remarkable contributions towards the actualization of African unity and development. The award’s criteria include integrity, commitment to African political and social progress, and active promotion of Pan-Africanism through both words and action.
SYNW noted that Dr. Okediran has, over the years, demonstrated these qualities through his leadership roles, creative contributions, and literary diplomacy. His stewardship of PAWA has fostered collaborations among writers from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, echoing Nkrumah’s vision of a united Africa.
The award ceremony was held during the Gala Night which concluded the three-day conference hosted at Osun State University. The event was jointly organized by the University, UNESCO, and the University of Texas, USA, further underscoring its global significance.
Wole Adedoyin, in the statement, emphasized that the younger generation of African writers and creatives continue to draw inspiration from Dr. Okediran’s life, work, and advocacy. He added that the honor is a collective celebration for Nigerian and African writers alike.
The Society also commended the organizers of TOFAC for recognizing literary leadership and Pan-African intellectualism as critical elements in the continent’s development journey. They described the award as a significant morale booster for literary leaders and cultural workers.
SYNW expressed hope that this recognition would further galvanize Dr. Okediran’s efforts in expanding the reach and influence of African literature on the global stage. The Society pledged its continued support for PAWA's mission and leadership.
Concluding the statement, the Society called on governments and cultural institutions across Africa to support visionary leaders like Dr. Okediran whose work aligns with the broader objectives of African unity, peace, and development.

IBADAN BOOK CLUB LAUNCHES NEW LITERARY SERIES, IBADAN BOOK DIALOGUE
The Ibadan Book Club has officially launched a fresh literary initiative tagged Ibadan Book Dialogue, signaling a new era of book-related engagements in the ancient city. This new project comes on the heels of the just-concluded Ibadan Book Talk, a highly impactful reading scheme that ran from January to June 2025 and featured over 20 prominent Nigerian writers.
In a press statement issued recently in Ibadan by the Founder of the Club, Mr. Wole Adedoyin, the Ibadan Book Dialogue is set to continue the club's tradition of promoting literature, reading culture, and literary interaction among residents of Oyo State and beyond. The initiative, according to him, will adopt a slightly different format from its predecessor by focusing more on literary interviews and podcast-style conversations.
Unlike the Ibadan Book Talk, which emphasized book reviews and direct author-reader engagements, Ibadan Book Dialogue will center around curated interviews with writers, literary professionals, publishers, and reading advocates. The platform will also serve as a channel to share literary opportunities such as fellowships, residencies, calls for submission, and grants with participants and the general public.
Wole Adedoyin emphasized that this mid-year switch in literary programming is a deliberate tradition of the Ibadan Book Club. "Every year, we divide our programming into two phases. From January to June, we implemented Ibadan Book Talk. Now, from July to December 2025, we are rolling out Ibadan Book Dialogue as a fresh and more interactive experience," he explained.
The new project will also be available in podcast format to ensure wider accessibility and participation. According to the organizers, selected interviews and readings will be uploaded to digital platforms to engage readers, writers, and literary enthusiasts across Nigeria and the diaspora.
The club is also partnering with three prominent literary bodies to bring the project to life: Writers Embassy, Readers Republic, and the Writers Book of Record. These organizations will jointly support the initiative through mentorship, technical assistance, media visibility, and resource sharing.
Over the years, the Ibadan Book Club has been at the forefront of literary advocacy and community reading development. Past initiatives include Ibadan Reads, Oyo Reads, Read Nigeria Project, Write and Publish Project, and most recently, the now-retired Ibadan Book Talk. Each project has contributed uniquely to the advancement of literary culture in the region.
Adedoyin reiterated that Ibadan Book Dialogue is open to all lovers of literature, including students, aspiring writers, publishers, librarians, book critics, and academics. “We invite everyone who shares a passion for books and creative expression to be part of this exciting new chapter,” he said.
The Ibadan Book Dialogue is expected to kick off its first session in late July, with a lineup of esteemed guests and interactive discussions. Updates on dates, guests, and featured books will be made available on the club’s official social media handles and partner platforms.