Onike, Dairo, Njoku to headline Ibadan Reads May Edition

 

ONIKE, DAIRO, NJOKU TO HEADLINE IBADAN READS MAY EDITION

 

The Ibadan Reads May edition is set to be a captivating literary event, headlined by the remarkable trio of Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan, Esther Dairo, and Amadi Ekwutosilam Njoku. These esteemed individuals will grace the stage, captivating the audience with their literary prowess and engaging in insightful discussions. The event, scheduled for May 27th, 2023, at 12PM at the Oyo State Library Board, promises to be a celebration of literature and a gathering of literary enthusiasts eager to explore the power of storytelling.

Onike Rahaman Olalekan, a distinguished Nigerian human rights activist, writer, and public servant, brings a wealth of experience to the event. With a diverse educational background and a Ph.D. in Education, he has actively fought for social justice and human rights through organizations such as the Civil Liberties Organisation and the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights. Onike Rahaman Olalekan's skills as a writer and his extensive public service experience make him a thought-provoking and insightful contributor to the literary landscape.

Esther Dairo is a multitalented individual with a wide range of creative pursuits. Her career in music has seen her achieve success as a singer, while her book, "The Presence of the Lord," has made a significant impact on readers. Additionally, Esther Dairo's linguistic skills in English and Yoruba make her an invaluable editor, transcriber, and translator. Her diverse talents, coupled with her strong faith and visionary leadership, make her a prominent figure in various aspects of life.

Amadi Ekwutosilam Njoku, known as Mazi Emeritus Njoku, is a literary powerhouse hailing from Amasiri, Ebonyi State. His contributions to the literary world span various genres, including poetry, award-winning novels, plays, short stories, literary essays, and critical analysis. As the managing editor at Africa Press Chamber (APC), Amadi has showcased his talent through his thought-provoking books, gaining recognition through awards and nominations. His dedication to teaching and coaching, along with his role as the founder of EMERITO ACADEMY, exemplify his commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering literary growth.

Amadi's impact as an educator extends beyond the classroom, with his expertise in teaching English Language and Literature-in-English, as well as coaching for standardized exams such as SAT, IELTS, and TOEFL. His literary achievements, including the ANA Prize for Children's Literature, highlight his contributions to the literary landscape and solidify his reputation as a distinguished writer.

The Ibadan Reads May edition provides a unique opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the world of literature, as Onike Rahaman Olalekan, Esther Dairo, and Amadi Ekwutosilam Njoku share their perspectives and engage in stimulating conversations. This event will undoubtedly inspire and ignite a passion for reading and storytelling, bringing together individuals who share a love for literature and the written word. Make sure not to miss out on this exceptional occasion to witness the magic of words and ideas at the Oyo State Library Board on May 27th, 2023.

Chinua Achebe's 10th Year Anniversary Commemoration Begins Tomorrow as ANA Unveils Zoom Link for Virtual Participation

 

CHINUA ACHEBE'S 10TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATION BEGINS TOMORROW AS ANA UNVEILS ZOOM LINK FOR VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION

 

By: Wole Adedoyin

The much-awaited program to mark the 10th anniversary of the passing of literary icon Chinua Achebe is set to commence tomorrow. Organized by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) under the leadership of Camillus Ukah, the program will honor the enduring legacy of Chinua Achebe, whose literary contributions have left an indelible mark on the global literary landscape.

The commemorative event, themed "The Immortality of Creativity: Ten Years After Achebe's Transition," will take place physically at the Chinua Achebe International Conference Centre (CAICC) located at Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, Mpape Abuja. The event will span three days, from 19th to 21st May 2023, and promises to be a fitting tribute to the esteemed author.

Day One, scheduled for Friday evening, 19th May 2023, will be dedicated to paying tribute and sharing reminiscences of the legendary Chinua Achebe. Esteemed guests and individuals influenced by his work will gather to reflect on his life, works, and the lasting impact he has had on literature and the world at large.

In recognition of the global interest in Chinua Achebe's legacy, the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has also unveiled a Zoom link for those unable to physically attend the program. This virtual participation option ensures that individuals from around the world can join in commemorating the 10th year since Achebe's passing and celebrate his remarkable contributions to literature.

To join the Zoom meeting, please use the following details:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85085100515?pwd=bUtBZkxnTnA2aTAyVFJnS2NVZmd6dz09

Meeting ID: 850 8510 0515

Passcode: 413816

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) encourages all literary enthusiasts, scholars, and admirers of Chinua Achebe to mark their calendars and participate in this significant event. The commemoration provides a platform to honor Achebe's immense literary contributions and to discuss the enduring legacy of his works.

For further information and updates on the program, interested individuals can visit the ANA website at www.ananigeria.org.

 

2023 National Writing Competition: NCC holds prize giving ceremony today

 

2023 NATIONAL WRITING COMPETITION: NCC HOLDS PRIZE GIVING CEREMONY TODAY

 

By: Wole Adedoyin

The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) is all set to host the prize giving ceremony for the winners of the 2023 National Creative Writing Competition for Secondary Schools. This highly anticipated event aims to recognize and celebrate the exceptional talents of young writers while raising awareness about the detrimental impact of book piracy on the book industry. Additionally, the NCC hopes that through this competition, students will gain a deeper understanding of copyright laws and their crucial role in safeguarding creative works.

The venue for the ceremony is the prestigious Merit House, located in the Banquet Hall of Maitama, Abuja. This esteemed location sets the stage for an elegant and inspiring event that will honor the winners for their outstanding writing skills and creativity. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on the 16th of May, 2023, starting at 10:00 am.

In light of the ongoing pandemic, the NCC has also arranged a virtual option for attendees. Participants are invited to join the scheduled Zoom meeting to witness the award giving ceremony firsthand. The Zoom meeting link is https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81974552207?pwd=ZjA1TzBLdy9JOUQ4K3pYaGlYQ0VHZz09, and the meeting ID is 819 7455 2207, with the passcode 899707. This digital arrangement enables wider participation and ensures that everyone can be a part of this momentous occasion.

The topic of the competition, "2023 NATIONAL CREATIVE WRITING COMPETITION FOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS: AWARD GIVING CEREMONY," reflects the significance of the event. It highlights the NCC's commitment to promoting creativity among young writers and emphasizes the importance of nurturing and encouraging their talents.

The prize giving ceremony promises to be a memorable and meaningful event. It will provide a platform for the winners to showcase their exceptional literary skills and be acknowledged for their dedication and hard work. The event will also feature distinguished guests from the literary and educational spheres who will share their insights and words of encouragement with the participants.

The NCC believes that empowering young writers through such competitions not only enhances their creative abilities but also instills in them a sense of responsibility towards protecting intellectual property rights. By encouraging students to become advocates for copyright protection, the NCC aims to create a generation that respects and values the efforts and contributions of creative individuals.

Through initiatives like the National Creative Writing Competition for Secondary Schools, the Nigerian Copyright Commission is actively fostering a culture of respect for intellectual property rights. This competition serves as a catalyst for change, inspiring young minds to think critically about copyright infringement and its impact on the creative industry. By amplifying the voices of these talented young writers, the NCC hopes to spark a wider conversation about the importance of copyright laws and their role in supporting and sustaining creative endeavors.

As the NCC prepares to host the prize giving ceremony for the winners of the 2023 National Creative Writing Competition for Secondary Schools, it invites everyone to join this momentous occasion either in person at the Merit House or through the virtual platform. Together, let us celebrate the remarkable achievements of these young writers and their dedication to creative expression while advocating for the protection of intellectual property rights.

 

ANA to Honor 10th Anniversary of Chinua Achebe's Passing with Roundtable Discussion

 

ANA TO HONOR 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF CHINUA ACHEBE'S PASSING WITH ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION

 

By Wole Adedoyin

On the 10th anniversary of Chinua Achebe's passing, the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) is set to commemorate the renowned novelist through a series of literary activities. Chinua Achebe, Africa's most celebrated novelist and the pioneer of African fiction, left an indelible mark on the literary landscape with his seminal work, "Things Fall Apart," published in 1958. This novel not only challenged European narratives about Africans but also revolutionized the novel form by combining oral and literary traditions and reshaping the English language to reflect Igbo voices and concepts.

To honor Achebe's legacy, ANA will host a day roundtable discussion with the theme "Re-visiting Chinua Achebe's Position on Colonial Language and Creative Writing in Africa." This event will take place on Saturday, 20th May 2023, at the prestigious Chinua Achebe International Conference Centre (CAICC) located in the Mamman Vatsa Writers' Village in Mpape, Abuja.

The roundtable discussion will feature an international panel of esteemed scholars, writers, and intellectuals who will explore Achebe's views on colonial language and its impact on creative writing in Africa. Panelists include Terri Ochlagha from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, UK; Manfred Metzner from Verlag Das Wunderhorn Publishing in Heidelberg, Germany; Barack Wanderah Oduor, a writer from Webuye, Kenya; Ashraf Aboul-Yazid, a writer and poet from Egypt; and Romeo Oriogun, an author from Iowa, USA.

In addition to the panelists, there will be contributions from notable figures in the Nigerian literary scene, including Denja Abdulahi, Dike Chukwumerije, and Jahman Anikulapo. The discussion will be moderated by Razinat Mohammed from the University of Abuja and Emmanuel Sule Egya from IBB University.

The convener of the event is Professor E.S. Dandaura, who has played a pivotal role in organizing this commemoration. Chidi Ukwu will act as the host, overseeing the smooth execution of the activities throughout the day. The chief host of the event is Camillus Ukah, the President of ANA, who will extend a warm welcome to all participants.

As part of the event's efforts to foster literary relationships and highlight Abuja's pursuit of a UNESCO Creative Cities Network designation in Literature, this roundtable discussion holds significance not only for ANA but also for the literary community at large.

For those unable to attend physically, the event will be accessible via Zoom, with the meeting ID 865 2515 2170 and passcode ACHEBE@10, ensuring a wider audience can engage with the thought-provoking discourse on Achebe's enduring legacy.

This occasion serves as a poignant reminder of Chinua Achebe's profound impact on African literature, and it provides an opportunity for writers, scholars, and enthusiasts to reflect on his contributions, re-examine his views on language and creativity, and carry his legacy forward into the future.