Association of Nigerian Authors Announces Maiden Edition of Writers’ Residency

ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIAN AUTHORS ANNOUNCES MAIDEN EDITION OF WRITERS’ RESIDENCY

 

By Wole Adedoyin

 

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has officially announced the call for applications for the maiden edition of the Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers’ Residency, set to hold from August 30 to October 11, 2025, at the Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, Mpape Hills, Abuja. This Residency seeks to provide a tranquil and stimulating environment for African writers to focus on their creative projects.

 

Founded in 2024 by ANA, the Residency was established in honour of Ken Saro-Wiwa, a former President of the Association and renowned environmental activist, whose execution in 1995 remains one of Nigeria’s most haunting memories of repression. The initiative is envisioned as a platform for African writers to nurture their talents, build literary networks, and complete vital manuscripts in a space rich with natural beauty and cultural history.

 

The Residency is open to creative writers living in Africa and writing in genres such as Fiction, Non-Fiction, Poetry, and Literary Criticism. Interested applicants must have published at least one work, either as a book or in a recognized literary platform. Each application must include a sample of the work-in-progress, a detailed résumé, and a statement of purpose.

 

As part of the requirements, applicants must also submit two letters of referral. One must be from the ANA State Chapter Chairman for Nigerian applicants, or from the Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers’ Association (PAWA) for international applicants. The second should be from a reputable Nigerian literary figure capable of endorsing the applicant’s potential.

 

Participants in the Residency will be expected to commit to the four-week programme, with an option to extend for an additional two weeks at their own expense. In addition to working on their manuscripts, residents will participate in mentorship and cultural activities aimed at community engagement and literary advocacy.

 

Successful applicants will receive weekly emoluments of N15,000, and a one-time transportation allowance of N100,000 for local residents and N200,000 for international residents. These provisions are intended to support the residents’ stay and ease logistics during the programme.

 

The Residency will take place at the Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village and Resort, a state-of-the-art literary sanctuary nestled in the scenic hills of Mpape, on the outskirts of Abuja. With its serene atmosphere and modern facilities, the venue offers writers a conducive space to focus, collaborate, and flourish.

 

All applications must be submitted as a single PDF document titled with the applicant’s Surname, First Name, and Genre, and emailed to anaksarowiwaintlresidency@gmail.com on or before the 12th of July, 2025. The selection process will be based strictly on literary merit.

 

The Association of Nigerian Authors encouraged eligible writers across Africa to take advantage of this exceptional opportunity. The Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers’ Residency promises to be a milestone in the development of contemporary African literature.

 

Oyo Library Board Sparks Reading Revolution in Ibarapa East

 

OYO LIBRARY BOARD SPARKS READING REVOLUTION IN IBARAPA EAST

 

By Wole Adedoyin

In a major step to rekindle the reading culture among young learners, the Oyo State Library Board has successfully wrapped up its one-day Readership Promotion Campaign tagged “Building a Sound Mind for Academic Success”, held in Eruwa, the heart of Ibarapa East Local Government. The campaign, which took place at the prestigious Awojobi Hall, united students, educators, and stakeholders in a vibrant celebration of books, knowledge, and academic empowerment.

The event specifically targeted Junior Secondary School Two (JSS2) and Senior Secondary School Two (SS2) students from selected schools across Ibarapa East. Its core mission was to promote reading as a fundamental pillar of academic success and intellectual development among adolescents in the region.

From motivational speeches to competitive spelling challenges and thought-provoking book tasting sessions, the event packed a punch of educational value and inspiration. One of the major highlights of the day was the official launching of “Library Ambassadors”—a corps of student champions selected to promote reading habits among their peers within their respective schools.

Declaring the event open, Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, captured the essence of the initiative in his powerful message. “Reading is more than just words; it’s a gateway to imagination, innovation, and critical thinking—skills essential for success in today’s rapidly changing world,” he said. His words resonated deeply with the young audience, as he urged them to see books as tools of transformation and knowledge sharing.

In his address, the State Librarian, Mr. Samuel Olukayode Awotona, emphasized the campaign’s vision: to cultivate sound minds by igniting a genuine passion for reading. “A well-read student is a well-informed citizen. Our goal is not only academic excellence but the development of critical thinkers and responsible future leaders,” he said, while commending teachers and partners who contributed to the campaign’s success.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Adejare Alabi, a renowned academic and educational consultant, delivered a compelling lecture on mental discipline, effective study habits, and the role of positive thinking in academic pursuits. “To succeed, students must treat their minds as gardens—what you read is what you sow,” he said, urging students to manage stress, embrace libraries, and read with purpose.

Teachers in attendance described the initiative as “long overdue” and praised the Library Board’s commitment to spreading the culture of reading, especially in underserved communities. According to them, the campaign filled a critical gap by motivating students to develop intellectual curiosity and stronger academic habits.

Students, on their part, were visibly excited and engaged. Many took part in the spelling challenge competition and book tasting sessions, where they were introduced to various genres of literature—ranging from inspirational to fiction and non-fiction works. Winners were awarded books and educational materials to encourage further reading.

The Library Ambassadors initiative was a particular favorite, drawing applause from the audience. These young ambassadors are expected to serve as literacy advocates in their schools, encouraging classmates to embrace books and participate in reading-related activities. Their selection was based on their enthusiasm, academic performance, and communication skills.

Also featured during the event were motivational talks by literacy advocates and educationists who emphasized that reading opens doors to boundless opportunities. The campaign’s message was clear: academic excellence begins with the habit of reading—and that habit must be nurtured from a young age.

Books and reading materials were distributed to participating schools, a gesture that underlined the campaign’s practical impact. Educators described the donation as a much-needed boost to their school libraries and teaching resources.

The campaign was not just an event—it was a movement. It served as a clarion call to parents, educators, and policymakers to invest in reading culture as a long-term strategy for youth development and community upliftment.

As the curtains fell on the day’s activities, students left Awojobi Hall inspired and motivated. “This has changed how I see reading,” said one SS2 student. “Now I know that books are not just for exams—they can also shape my future.”

The Oyo State Library Board, through this campaign, demonstrated that with vision, collaboration, and commitment, a literacy revolution is possible—even in the most rural parts of the state. The success of the Ibarapa East edition is expected to pave the way for similar interventions across other local governments.

In a world dominated by distractions, the message from Eruwa was loud and clear: reading remains the ultimate superpower. And with initiatives like this, the future of education in Oyo State looks brighter than ever.

 

Oyo Librarian Salutes Head of Service on Her Birthday

 **OYO LIBRARIAN SALUTES HEAD OF SERVICE ON HER BIRTHDAY**

The Oyo State Librarian, Awotona Samuel Olukayode, has congratulated the Head of Service of Oyo State, Chief Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, mni, on the joyous occasion of her birthday celebration. 

In a goodwill message released on Saturday, Awotona described Chief Mrs. Oni as an inspiring, dynamic, and visionary leader who has continued to elevate the standards of the state’s civil service with uncommon dedication and commitment.

According to the statement issued from the office of the State Librarian, Awotona commended Chief Mrs. Oni for her selfless service, unwavering integrity, and the transformational leadership style that has made her a beacon of excellence among civil and public servants in Oyo State. He noted that her tenure has been marked by professionalism, innovation, and a renewed sense of purpose within the workforce.

"Happy Birthday to a truly inspiring and amazing leader. On this special day, we extend our warmest greetings and heartfelt felicitations to Your Honour, Chief Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, mni, our esteemed Head of Service of Oyo State. Your unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership have significantly contributed to the advancement of our State and its civil service,” Awotona said.

Awotona emphasized that under Chief Mrs. Oni’s able leadership, the Oyo State civil service has witnessed increased productivity, improved morale, and a greater sense of unity and teamwork among government workers. He added that her open-door policy and people-oriented approach have earned her widespread respect and admiration across ministries, departments, and agencies.

He further noted that Chief Mrs. Oni’s impact is not only evident in the administrative reforms she has championed, but also in her personal commitment to mentoring the younger generation of civil servants, encouraging professionalism, and promoting gender equity in public service.

"As you celebrate another year of life, may you continue to inspire us – civil and public servants of Oyo State – with your vision and commitment to excellence. We wish you abundant joy, good health, and success in all your endeavors," Awotona added in his congratulatory message.

The State Librarian also praised Chief Mrs. Oni for being a supportive figure to knowledge-based institutions like the Oyo State Library Board. He stated that her understanding of the importance of information access and education has been instrumental in the Library Board's continuous growth and relevance.

On behalf of the staff and management of the Oyo State Library Board, Awotona conveyed his best wishes to the Head of Service, praying that her new age brings renewed strength, divine wisdom, and continued grace to serve the people of Oyo State with even greater impact.

The congratulatory statement concluded with a resounding birthday message: “Happy Birthday from all of us at the Oyo State Library Board. May your days be long, your joy full, and your legacy lasting.”

Educare Trust Remembers, Pays Tribute to Kolapo Godfrey Oyefeso (1960–1999)

 

EDUCARE TRUST REMEMBERS, PAYS TRIBUTE TO KOLAPO GODFREY OYEFESO (1960–1999)

 

By Wole Adedoyin

Educare Trust, a youth and community development centre dedicated to promoting sustainable development through education, civic engagement, and empowerment, has remembered one of its pioneer members, Kolapo Godfrey Oyefeso (1960 – 1999). Oyefeso, who served as the first Assistant Secretary of the Trust, remains a shining light in the history of the organisation. His life, though brief, continues to inspire generations of young leaders and writers across Nigeria.

In a statement released by the Programme Director of Educare Trust, Mr. Folorunsho Moshood, the organisation described Kolapo Oyefeso as a visionary youth leader and a literary gem who left an indelible mark on the minds of all who knew him. “Kolapo was not only a dedicated youth worker but also an exceptional writer who used his craft to promote moral values and cultural heritage,” the statement read.

A gifted scholar, Kolapo Godfrey Oyefeso graduated with First Class Honours at the remarkable age of 19 and went on to become an award-winning author. Tragically, he passed away on May 27, 1999—Children’s Day—at the young age of 39. His death was a profound loss not only to Educare Trust but also to the larger literary and youth development community.

To honour his memory and contributions, Educare Trust named its central library the Kolapo Oyefeso Bookateria, a space dedicated to learning, reading, and intellectual growth. The Bookateria remains a living tribute to Oyefeso’s passion for books and education, and serves as a constant reminder of the values he championed during his lifetime.

Kolapo Oyefeso is the celebrated author of The Goddess of the Kitchen and Other Stories: Folktales from Africa, a vibrant collection of twenty folktales that promote moral teachings through African storytelling. The stories, accompanied by vivid illustrations from his wife, Rosalie-Ann Modder, explore themes such as kindness, humility, and justice using animal characters like the tortoise, elephant, crocodile, and baboon.

He also authored The Wind and the Tree, a short but insightful work published in April 2000 by Spectrum Books Ltd. Though less well-known, the book adds to his literary legacy and exemplifies his commitment to storytelling as a tool for societal development and transformation.

Educare Trust urges the youth of today to emulate the values Kolapo Oyefeso stood for—academic excellence, social responsibility, and the courage to use one's talents for the betterment of society. As the Trust continues to grow in its mission, the memory of Kolapo Godfrey Oyefeso remains deeply embedded in its foundation and spirit.