Writers Remember Austyn Njoku on 55th Posthumous Birthday

 **WRITERS REMEMBER AUSTYN NJOKU ON 55TH POSTHUMOUS BIRTHDAY**

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW Global) has paid glowing tribute to the late poet, short story writer, publisher, and former National Treasurer of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Austyn Njoku, on the occasion of his 55th posthumous birthday.

In a statement released in Abuja today, August 27, 2025, by SYNW President, Wole Adedoyin, the society described Njoku as one of Nigeria’s finest literary voices whose life and works continue to inspire writers and readers across the country and beyond.

During his lifetime, Austyn Njoku was a friend and supporter of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers. It will be recalled that he once attended one of the society’s creative writing workshops alongside his close associate, Mature Tanko Okoduwa, at the Amphi Theatre, University of Ibadan—the former home of Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka. 

This gesture reflected his commitment to mentoring and encouraging younger generations of Nigerian writers.

Until his passing, Njoku was the Chief Executive Officer of Jemie Books, one of the consulting publishers to the Nigerian Writers Series (NWS) of the Association of Nigerian Authors. Through this role, he contributed significantly to strengthening Nigerian publishing and promoting works that gave voice to both emerging and established authors.

Njoku studied French Language and Literature at the University of Port Harcourt, and his academic background enriched his literary output. As a bilingual and imaginative writer, his works displayed intellectual depth, creative vision, and an artistic sensibility that placed him among the leading figures of his generation.

His poems and short stories found wide publication in anthologies and literary platforms. His works featured in *Passport to the New World* (edited by Sunny Ayewanu in collaboration with the Nigerian Commission for UNESCO) and in volumes of the International Library of Poetry anthologies. Many of his poems were also published in Nigerian newspapers and magazines, with some adapted into Baroque music in the acclaimed project, *The Sound of Poetry*.

Njoku’s debut poetry collection, *I’ve Been a Crew*, earned an Honourable Mention in the Cadbury Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Poetry Competition, an early testament to his literary promise. He later consolidated his reputation with his second collection, *Scents of Dawn*, which further showcased his unique voice and lyrical mastery.

SYNW emphasized Njoku’s dual legacy as both a writer and an administrator. His tenure as ANA National Treasurer was characterized by dedication, accountability, and service to the literary community, leaving a legacy of integrity and commitment to the growth of Nigerian literature.

Speaking on behalf of the society, SYNW President Wole Adedoyin described Njoku as “a rare literary gem whose memory we must continue to honor. His writings, leadership, and publishing initiatives remain a beacon of inspiration for young and upcoming writers. Though he is no longer physically present, his voice, vision, and values continue to live on.”

The society noted that Njoku’s 55th posthumous birthday is a reminder of the timeless values he represented—creativity, mentorship, integrity, and service. SYNW pledged to continue honoring his legacy through literary projects, memorial events, and initiatives that embody his ideals and contributions to Nigerian literature.