Press Statement: SYNW Thanks Peter Obi For Remarkable Presence At The 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival

 

PRESS STATEMENT: SYNW THANKS PETER OBI FOR REMARKABLE PRESENCE AT THE 2023 CHINUA ACHEBE LITERARY FESTIVAL

 

On behalf of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW), I, Wole Adedoyin, the President of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW), extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. Peter Obi, the Former Governor of Anambra State and the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last general election, for gracing the 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival with his distinguished presence. Mr. Obi's attendance added immense prestige to our event, and his keynote speech resonated deeply with the festival's theme: "Ten Years After: Remembering Achebe’s Legacies in Today’s Nigeria."

The 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival was an extraordinary gathering that celebrated literature, culture, and the enduring legacy of Chinua Achebe. We were honored to have Mr. Peter Obi as a key participant, and his insightful contribution during the festival's proceedings enhanced the intellectual depth of the event.

This year's festival featured various activities that underscored the significance of Achebe's contributions to Nigerian literature. The unveiling of the 8th Chinua Achebe Poetry/Essay Anthology - themed "Anthills of Words (In Memory of Achebe),", cutting of Achebe’s 93rd posthumous birthday cake, poetry renditions, dramatizations of Achebe’s books, the Chinua Achebe Essay Writing Competition, and the presentation of certificates/awards were just a few of the highlights that made the occasion truly memorable.

In addition to expressing our gratitude to Mr. Peter Obi, we would also like to extend our appreciation to other dignitaries who honored us with their presence at the festival. Our sincere thanks go to Mr. Oseloka Obaze, the former Secretary to the State Government and former Nigerian Diplomat, who added his distinguished presence to the occasion. We are equally grateful to Igwe Chidubem Iweka, the Chairman of the Occasion, and Prof. Stella Okunna, the first female Professor of Mass Communication in Sub-Saharan Africa, for their invaluable contributions to the success of the event.

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) would also like to thank the state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, and Mrs. Chioma Ifediorah, the Ministry’s Director of Arts and Culture, for their support and representation. Our gratitude extends to Mrs. Ifeyinwa Uzoka, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power and Water Resources, as well as other distinguished personalities present, including Uzor Maxim Uzoatu, Okeke Chika Jerry, Mr. Arinze Omenwa, Dr. Nkechi Udeze, Reginald Chinedu Ofordile, and many others.

The success of the 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival is a testament to the collaborative efforts of all participants and sponsors. We are grateful for the support and commitment shown by everyone involved in making this event a resounding success.

Thank you.

Wole Adedoyin

President,

Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW)

 

SYNW Honors Legacy of Jerry Agada on 71st Posthumous Birthday

 SYNW HONORS LEGACY OF JERRY AGADA ON 71ST POSTHUMOUS BIRTHDAY

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) proudly observed the 71st posthumous birthday of the esteemed Prof. Jerry Agada, a literary giant and dedicated public servant. 

SYNW, led by President Wole Adedoyin, commemorated the occasion in Ibadan, reflecting on Prof. Agada's impactful contributions to literature and education.

As a former President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) and the ex-Nigerian Minister of State for Education, Prof. Agada's influence is etched in the realms of literature and education. 

His illustrious career included service as a Permanent Secretary to four Ministries in Benue State, Nigeria, and chairmanship of the National Commission for College of Education, shaping the nation's educational landscape.

SYNW's celebration serves as a testament to Prof. Jerry Agada's enduring influence. Despite the absence of a physical event, SYNW took the opportunity to reflect on his prolific literary works, such as "The Secret Deal and Other Stories," "Rage and Tears," "The Soothsayer," "The Honourable Chairman," "The Magic Year: A Poetry in Prose and Rhymes," and "The Successors."

Recognizing Agada's impact on the literary community, SYNW expressed deep gratitude for his dedication to the written word and education. 

Although current circumstances prevented a physical gathering, SYNW members and supporters united in spirit to honor the memory of this literary luminary.

As SYNW celebrates Prof. Jerry Agada's 71st posthumous birthday, the organization reaffirms its commitment to fostering literary excellence and promoting Nigeria's rich cultural heritage. 

Prof. Agada's legacy lives on through the pages of his works, inspiring aspiring writers and contributing to Nigeria's literary heritage.