SYNW Appoints Saliu Ahmad Toyin As Coordinator Of Ilorin Book Club

 

SYNW APPOINTS SALIU AHMAD TOYIN AS COORDINATOR OF ILORIN BOOK CLUB

 

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW), a member of the International Authors Forum (IAF)  has announced the appointment of Mr. Saliu Ahmad Toyin as the Coordinator of the Ilorin Book Club. The decision, made by the National Executive Council, led by Wole Adedoyin, is a testament to Saliu Ahmad Toyin's exceptional merit, extensive experience, and unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant reading culture in Kwara State.

Saliu Ahmad Toyin, widely known as Penwarlord, is a distinguished writer and spoken word poetry artist hailing from Ilorin. His academic background includes a degree in English and Literary Studies from Kwara State University (2014) and Al-hikmah University (2021). The appointment, effective immediately, reflects SYNW's confidence in Saliu Ahmad Toyin's ability to lead the Ilorin Book Club to new heights in promoting literary endeavors within the community.

The Ilorin Book Club, under the leadership of Saliu Ahmad Toyin, aims to build on its past successes, such as the well-received Short Story & Content Writing Webinar held on July 18, 2022. This event featured distinguished guest speakers Mrs. Betty Ige and Mr. Don Veta, who shared insights on Short Story Writing Mechanics and Fundamentals of Content Creation, respectively.

Saliu Ahmad Toyin, alias Penwarlord, has a remarkable track record, having shared stages with notable writers such as Prof. Niyi Osundare, Prof. Olu Obafemi, Sheriff Olanrewaju (Author Jahid), and others. His literary works, including 'The Eye-Opener' and 'Extract from the Hourglass,' along with spoken word poetry audios like 'EndSars,' 'Beast of All Nations,' and 'Race of Life,' have gained widespread acclaim.

In addition to his literary pursuits, Saliu Ahmad Toyin is an educator, currently teaching 'Literature in English' at a secondary school in Ilorin. He also offers private classes for TOEFL, DUOLINGO, and IELTS, showcasing his dedication to nurturing the next generation of creative minds.

The Ilorin Book Club, supported by SYNW, looks forward to leveraging Saliu Ahmad Toyin's wealth of experience to further enhance its contributions to the development of a robust reading culture in Kwara State.

For further inquiries, please contact:  Saliu Ahmad Toyin (Penwarlord) Email: saliuahmad10@gmail.com

 

The Quest For Female Leadership In ANA

 

THE QUEST FOR FEMALE LEADERSHIP IN ANA

 

By Wole Adedoyin

With the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) election drawing near, candidates are actively campaigning across different state chapters to garner support and endorsements. Notably, this election marks a historic moment as a female writer is stepping forward to vie for the top leadership position within the Association. It's worth recognizing that women have not previously sought the highest office in ANA.

The significance of this milestone can be traced back to the invaluable contributions of women to Nigerian Literature. This journey began with trailblazers like Flora Nwapa, widely regarded as Nigeria's first female novelist. Born in January 1931 in Oguta (or Ugwuta), a town nestled on the eastern shores of the stunning Oguta Lake in Imo State, southeastern Nigeria, Flora Nwapa achieved a remarkable feat in 1966 by becoming the first African woman to publish a novel in the English language.

In an interesting twist of fate, the outgoing ANA President also hails from Imo State, further highlighting the rich literary heritage and potential for transformative change that this upcoming election holds for the Association.

Numerous esteemed female writers subsequently joined the literary scene. These authors included luminaries such as Buchi Emecheta, Mabel Segun, Hafsat Abdulwaheed, Catherine Acholonu, Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Stella Oyedepo, Sefi Atta, Karen King-Aribisala, Sarah Ladipo Manyika, Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani, Molara Ogundipe, Ifeoma Okoye, Chinelo Okparanta, Osonye Tess Onwueme, Molara Wood, Balaraba Ramat Yakubu, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ayobami Adebayo, Nnedi Okorafor, Helen Oyeyemi, Chika Unigwe, Lola Shoneyin, and Toyin Adewale-Gabriel, among others.

In the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), numerous accomplished women writers have enthusiastically pursued various positions at the national level. However, it's worth noting that very few have ventured to run for the esteemed position of ANA Presidency. Among these talented female authors are individuals such as Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, Maryam Ali Ali, Joy Esuku, Chinyere Obi-Obasi, Prof. May Nwoye, Charry Ada Onwu Otuyelu, and Farida Muhammed, just to name a few.

A quick examination of ANA's Past Presidents list reveals a historical absence of female leadership within the organization. The roster includes notable figures such as Chinua Achebe (1981-1986), Kole Omotoso (1986-1988), Femi Osofisan (1988-1990), Ken Saro-Wiwa (1990-1993), Odia Ofeimun (1993-1997), Abubakar Gimba (1997-2001), Olu Obafemi (2001-2005), Wale Okediran (2005-2009), Jerry Agada (2009-2011), Remi Raji (2011-2015), Denja Abdullahi (2015-2019), and Camillus Ukah (2019-present). Notably, there has not been a female president in the history of ANA.

It's hardly a surprise anymore that Hajia Farida Muhammed has set her sights on the top leadership position within ANA. Her campaign trail has already taken her through states such as Osun, Oyo, Nasarawa, and more states like Benue and Abuja are poised to be included in her itinerary. The undeniable truth is that within the realm of ANA politics, Hajia Farida Muhammed holds considerable sway. Her influence played a pivotal role in the rise of Denja Abdulahi in 2015 and Camillus Ukah in 2019. In 2015, Farida's unwavering support for Denja Abdulahi was not only evident but also served as a testament to her dedication and commitment to the cause.

ANA Niger once held a significant role in ANA Politics on a national scale. It played a pivotal role in the emergence of Prof. Remi Raji in 2011, a time when Denja Abdulahi assumed the position of Vice President in ANA. However, this chapter later experienced a division when a prominent figure within it contested for ANA's top position in 2015, challenging Denja Abdulahi.

In 2015, at the Kaduna convention, Hajia Farida stood firmly alongside Denja Abdulahi, resulting in a noticeable split within ANA Niger. One faction supported the presidential candidate from the state, while the other rallied behind Denja Abdulahi. Many of us bore witness to the events in Kaduna, and this marked a significant turning point for ANA Niger.

Since that tumultuous event, ANA Niger has struggled to reunify and regain its former cohesion.

In 2019, when Camillus Ukah announced his bid for the ANA presidency, he selected Hajia Farida as his running mate. However, some influential figures from Niger state and the northern regions, who supported Camillus Ukah's opponent, began to mobilize against his presidential aspirations. Although the election did not take place that year, the ANA Niger delegation was notably divided, with Hajia Farida leading a substantial group to garner support for Camillus Ukah. I was amazed by her ability to approach members of the northern chapters in support of Camillus Ukah’s candidacy. At the Enugu Convention ground, she tirelessly moved from one northern chapter to another, seeking endorsements for Camillus Ukah.

Recently, while reviewing video clips I recorded during the Enugu Saga, I came across a segment where a member of one of the ANA Northern Chapters accused Hajia Farida Muhammed of abandoning one of their own for an unfamiliar candidate. The man was expressing his grievances in Hausa, a language I didn't understand at the time. It was only after I shared the video with a Hausa-speaking friend that I learned the reason behind the accusation. If there is interest, I am willing to share the video, along with other captivating short clips related to the Enugu Saga.

I am aware that certain political entities she has displeased due to her association with Mallam Denja Abdulahi and Camillus Ukah are now joining forces with prominent figures within ANA to thwart her presidential aspirations. I find it rather astonishing to witness a well-known personality leading the charge in this campaign.

At present, my belief firmly holds that Hajia Farida Muhammed should not be dismissed simply because of her gender; instead, her admirable actions deserve recognition and reciprocity. It has come to my attention that there are those who doubt Farida Muhammed's capabilities. However, it is essential to acknowledge her impressive track record, including her roles as Vice-Chairman and Chairman of ANA Niger, her tenure as a national treasurer, and her current position as the outgoing Vice President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).

Similar comments were made about Camillus Ukah in the past, with many giving him various labels. Some claimed he was too reserved, incapable of delivering results, or even called him a puppet. The question remains: Is Camillus Ukah truly a puppet? I leave it to my readers to provide their answers.

I believe it is high time that female writers within the ANA (Association of Nigerian Authors) become more prominent in ANA politics. Elections often involve politics, and this phenomenon is not unique to ANA; it occurs in other similar professional associations such as NUJ (Nigeria Union of Journalists), NMA (Nigerian Medical Association), NBA (Nigerian Bar Association), and so on.

For instance, in NUJ, there exists NAWOJ (National Association of Women Journalists), which actively safeguards the interests of female journalists across the country. During elections within NUJ, NAWOJ consistently supports their female candidates. However, we haven't seen a comparable support system within the writers' community. The Women Writers Association of Nigeria (WRITA), which was once vibrant, seems to have fallen into disuse. In the past, a majority of WRITA members were also ANA members, making it a potentially valuable resource to support individuals like Hajia Farida Muhammed during times like these. It's time for ANA to recognize and empower its female writers within its political landscape.

If WRITA were to be inactive, I strongly recommend its revival to champion the cause of women in the field of writing. There are numerous talented female writers across the country who are outperforming their male counterparts. It is essential to direct attention towards female writers and their well-being. ANA, in its current state, may not adequately cater to the needs of all writers.

The upcoming ANA National Election will be a litmus test to determine whether female writers within ANA are truly valued beyond being used solely for garnering votes for their male counterparts. I firmly believe that deserving individuals like Hajia Farida should also be considered for the top leadership positions within the association.

Wole Adedoyin serves as the President of both the Writers for Human Rights and Writers for Democratic Change. He is a dedicated champion of women's rights and also holds the distinction of founding the Nigerian Women Writers Forum (NIWOWF).

Hajia Farida Muhammed’s Historic Visit To ANA Osun

 

HAJIA FARIDA MUHAMMED’S HISTORIC VISIT TO ANA OSUN: UNITING WRITERS AND SHAPING ANA'S FUTURE

 

Hajia Farida's visit to ANA Osun yesterday was not only historic but also praiseworthy. She is a well-known figure in ANA, with an impressive track record of service. She previously held the position of Vice Chairman in ANA Niger and later assumed the role of Chairman for the same chapter. Her dedication and commitment to ANA led her to become the National Treasurer during Denja Abdulahi's leadership. In 2020, she achieved another milestone when she was elected as the Vice President of ANA in an emergency election organized by the association's highest governing body. She is now in her second term, continuing to contribute significantly to ANA's growth and success.

 

It's worth noting that the outgoing President of ANA, Camillus Ukah, had previously undertaken a similar visit in 2019 when Mr. Muriola Awosemo served as the Chairman of ANA Osun. However, the leadership of ANA Osun, led by Mr. Muriola Awosemo, later aligned themselves with Barr. Ahmed Maiwada, leaving Wole Adedoyin as the sole supporter of Camillus in the entire ANA Osun chapter.

 

Some candidates hold the belief that visiting ANA Osun is an inefficient allocation of their time and resources. They argue that the state lacks significant electoral influence in the upcoming ANA Presidential election.

 

Hajia Farida Muhammed's visit to Osun State yesterday brought significant positive changes to the chapter. Her presence had a transformative impact in several ways. Firstly, it resulted in Dr. Femi Ademiluyi attending the meeting, marking his first appearance since the contentious events of 2019 witnessed in Enugu. Secondly, her presence fostered unity within ANA Osun. According to Dr. Femi Ademiluyi, the former Chairman of ANA Osun, Mr. Muriola Awosemo, had the intention to attend the meeting but was unable to do so due to logistical constraints, and he conveyed his sincere apologies.

 

For those familiar with the dynamics of ANA Osun, Dr. Femi Ademiluyi holds a prominent position in the chapter. Not only was he the founding Chairman of ANA Osun, but he also served as the National Publicity Secretary during the presidency of the Late Alhaji Abubakar Gimba and as National Treasurer during the presidency of Professor Olu Obafemi. It was a pleasure to have the former Deputy Rector of the Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, present at yesterday's meeting.

 

The Caretaker Chairman of ANA Osun, Mrs. Nikeagbeja Adesanya, took the floor to extend a warm welcome to Hajia Farida Muhammed and Dr. Femi Ademiluyi, opening the meeting with gracious words. She proceeded to provide the attendees with an overview of the meeting's purpose and expressed her appreciation to Hajia Farida for choosing to bring her campaign to Osun.

In a similar spirit, Dr. Femi Ademiluyi commended Hajia Farida Muhammed for her decision to enter the ANA presidential race, noting that no female writer had previously attempted such a feat. He emphasized the historical significance that would accompany the election of a female writer to the highest position within ANA. Dr. Femi Ademiluyi then shared insights from his experience in ANA politics, recounting the strategies and dynamics during the presidencies of Mallam Abubakar Gimba and Prof. Olu Obafemi.

He highlighted the pivotal roles played by notable figures such as Prof. Femi Osofisan, Prof. Olu Obafemi, Odia Ofeimun, Dr. Wale Okediran, and Denja Abdulahi in ANA's development and growth. Dr. Femi Ademiluyi advised Hajia Farida Muhammed to actively engage with these influential figures, seeking their support and counsel. Furthermore, he encouraged her to build relationships with ANA leaders in various state chapters to bolster her campaign.

Additionally, Mr. Femi Omoniyi, the Caretaker Secretary of ANA Osun, expressed his appreciation to Hajia Farida for choosing to launch her campaign within the ANA Osun chapter. He remarked that her presence in Osun signified her genuine intentions for the chapter's welfare. Mr. Omoniyi also addressed the issue of reconciling ANA factions within the state, noting that a reconciliation committee had been established and was actively working towards reuniting the disaffected members with the larger ANA Osun community.

In a further effort to promote reconciliation, Mr. Femi Omoniyi encouraged Dr. Femi Ademiluyi to leverage his influence and resources to support the reconciliation committee's efforts in reintegrating the aggrieved members into the mainstream ANA Osun.

Hajia Farida Muhammed was allotted an hour to address the gathering and share her vision for ANA should she assume the role of President. With her customary eloquence, she presented her background and qualifications to the assembly. Subsequently, she elaborated on her comprehensive four-point agenda, which encompassed:

1.      Inclusive Governance: She emphasized the importance of an all-inclusive approach to ensure the smooth running of the association.

2.      Human Capital Development: Hajia Farida stressed the need to invest in the development of ANA's human resources, recognizing that people are a valuable asset.

3.      Infrastructure Enhancement: She discussed her plans for improving the association's infrastructure to provide a better platform for ANA's activities.

4.      Revenue Generation: Hajia Farida highlighted her strategies for generating revenue to sustain and support ANA's initiatives and growth.

Her presentation offered a clear roadmap for her potential presidency, outlining her commitment to strengthening ANA on multiple fronts.

Wole Adedoyin, the former National Publicity Secretary of ANA, who now holds the position of ex-officio member, expressed his gratitude to Hajia Farida for choosing to launch her campaign within the state. He also extended his appreciation to Dr. Femi Ademiluyi for responding to his invitation and attending the emergency meeting. In a notable announcement, Adedoyin declared his intention to contest a new position in the upcoming ANA National election, with further details to be disclosed in the latter part of this article. The meeting was well-attended by other prominent members of the Association.Top of Form

Bottom of Form

 

Hajia Farida Mohammed set to Ignite Osun with her Presidential Campaign

 ANA PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE, FARIDA MUHAMMED, SET TO IGNITE OSUN WITH HER PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN, SET TO MEET MEMBERS, DR. FEMI ADEMILUYI

By Wole Adedoyin

Hajia Farida Mohammed, the current Vice President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), is already in Osogbo, the vibrant capital of Osun State for her presidential campaign. 

With a firm commitment to the advancement of literature and a wealth of experience in the literary world, Hajia Farida is poised to make a significant impact on the ANA Presidential election.

According to a statement released by the Caretaker Chairman of ANA Osun, Mr. Nikeagbeja Adesanya, Hajia Farida Mohammed will be engaging with members of the ANA Osun Chapter to share her comprehensive agenda and innovative programs. 

The meeting is anticipated to be attended by the chapter's Caretaker Committee, esteemed members, distinguished patrons, and respected elders, who are eager to learn about Hajia Farida's vision for the literary community.

During her visit, Hajia Farida Mohammed will also have the privilege of meeting with the esteemed pioneer Chairman of ANA Osun, Dr. Femi Ademiluyi. Dr. Femi Ademiluyi's wealth of experience as the former Deputy Rector of the Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, and a former National Assistant Secretary of ANA Osun, makes him an invaluable source of insight for Hajia Farida's campaign. 

The exchange of ideas between these two eminent literary figures promises to enrich the discourse around the future of ANA.

Hajia Farida Mohammed's campaign is fueled by her unwavering dedication to the literary arts, her deep-rooted passion for Nigerian literature, and her commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive literary community. Her engagement in Osun State reflects her aspiration to connect with ANA members at the grassroots level, ensuring that their voices and concerns are heard on a national platform.

The meeting will take place today, 31st August, 2023 at the Exploit World, Alekuwodo Osogbo by 3:00PM.  

As the ANA Presidential election draws near, Hajia Farida Mohammed's visit to Osun State signals a new era of inspiration, collaboration, and progress for the Association of Nigerian Authors. Her interaction with members and esteemed leaders such as Dr. Femi Ademiluyi underscores her commitment to inclusivity, growth, and the advancement of Nigerian literature.

NBFT Chairman, Dare Oluwatuyi Set To Launch New Book Tomorrow

 

NBFT CHAIRMAN, DARE OLUWATUYI SET TO LAUNCH NEW BOOK TOMORROW

 

By Wole Adedoyin

 

The Nigerian literary and publishing community is abuzz with anticipation as the current Chairman of the Nigeria Book Fair Trust (NBFT), Mr. Oluwadare Oluwatuyi, a distinguished figure in the industry, is set to unveil his latest masterpiece. 

 

The upcoming book launch event, scheduled for August 31st, is poised to mark a significant milestone in the Nigerian book industry.

 

Titled "The Fine Art of Bookselling: Reflections of Nigeria’s Industry Stakeholders," the book delves into the intricacies of the bookselling sector in Nigeria. Drawing upon his extensive experience as the current Chairman of the Nigerian Book Fair Trust and President of the Booksellers Association of Nigeria, as well as his role as the Managing Director of CSS Bookshops Limited, Mr. Oluwadare Oluwatuyi provides readers with a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and successes that have shaped the landscape of book distribution in the country.

 

The prestigious LCCI Conference and Exhibition Center located at No 10 Nurudeen Olowopopo Street, Alausa Ikeja, Lagos, will serve as the backdrop for this momentous occasion. Commencing at 11 am, the event promises to bring together luminaries and stakeholders from diverse sectors that have contributed to the growth and evolution of the Nigerian book industry.

 

In keeping with the gravity of the event, the Chairman of the Occasion will be the esteemed Akogun Damion Lanre Adesuyi, the visionary Chairman and CEO of Havilah Group of Companies. His presence adds a touch of distinction to the launch and underscores the book's significance in the industry.

 

Taking the spotlight as Chief Presenter is Mr. Gbadega Adedapo, an eminent figure in the publishing domain and the Chairman/CEO of Accessible Publishers. With his profound knowledge and expertise, Mr. Adedapo is poised to provide invaluable insights into the book's contents and its potential impact on the industry.

 

The event boasts an illustrious Chief Host, Prof. Olanrewaju A. Onadeko, SAN, a former Director General of the Nigerian Law School and a distinguished Professor & Dean of the Faculty of Law at Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo. His presence is a testament to the academic and intellectual significance of the book.

 

Dr. Olayinka Oyegbile, a seasoned expert and Lead Consultant at Double-O Communications, Lagos, will conduct a thorough review of the book's themes and content. As an industry insider, her perspective promises to enrich attendees' understanding of the book's essence.

 

Guiding the proceedings as the Master of Ceremony is Richard Mammah, the President of the Network of Book Club and Reading Culture Promoters in Nigeria. His adeptness in creating a seamless and engaging atmosphere is expected to captivate the audience throughout the event.

 

This launch is an extraordinary convergence of some of the brightest minds in the Nigerian literary and publishing sphere. 

 

Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with the NBFT Chairman, Mr. Oluwadare Oluwatuyi himself, gaining unparalleled insights into the thought processes and inspirations that underpin "The Fine Art of Bookselling: Reflections of Nigeria’s Industry Stakeholders."