SYNW Congratulates Dr. Obari Gomba, Dr. Charles Iornumbe on Their Birthdays

 

SYNW CONGRATULATES DR. OBARI GOMBA, DR. CHARLES IORNUMBE ON THEIR BIRTHDAYS

 

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW Global) has congratulated the duo of Dr. Obari Gomba and Dr. Charles Iornumbe on the occasion of their birthdays.

This was conveyed in a press statement issued by the President of SYNW Global, Wole Adedoyin highlighting the significant contributions of these two distinguished personalities to the literary and academic spheres in Nigeria.

Dr. Obari Gomba, a celebrated Nigerian writer and academic, has had an illustrious career that continues to inspire many. In 2023, he earned widespread acclaim by winning the Nigeria Prize for Literature for his work, Grit. This recognition added to his numerous accolades, including winning the ANA Poetry Prize in 2017 and 2018, as well as being named an Honorary Fellow in Writing at the University of Iowa in 2018. Dr. Gomba currently serves as the Associate Dean of Humanities and teaches Literary and Creative Writing at the University of Port Harcourt.

The SYNW President lauded Dr. Gomba's persistent dedication to literature, noting that his works have consistently been of high literary value. Prior to winning the Nigeria Prize for Literature in 2023, Dr. Gomba's work had been shortlisted for the prize five times since 2013. His award-winning play, Grit, was particularly praised for its profound commentary on Nigeria's contemporary political landscape, described by Lindsay Barrett as "a wholesome commentary on Nigeria's contemporary political circumstance."

Dr. Charles Iornumbe, a renowned broadcast journalist, researcher, creative writer, cultural enthusiast, and academic, was also celebrated by SYNW Global. Dr. Iornumbe has made significant strides in the field of broadcasting, having worked with Radio Benue Corporation, Makurdi, for over a decade, and also with Radio Nigeria Globe FM in Bauchi. His journey through the ranks in the broadcasting industry is a testimony to his commitment and passion for communication and culture.

In addition to his achievements in broadcasting, Dr. Iornumbe has made remarkable contributions to the literary community in Benue State and beyond. He served as the Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Benue State Chapter, from 2016 to 2019. His exemplary leadership and dedication to promoting literary creativity in the region earned him the position of National Ex-Officio One by the National Executive Council of ANA.

The press statement further highlighted Dr. Iornumbe's academic accomplishments, particularly his expertise in Linguistics, with a focus on stylistics, communication, and semiotics. His essays, commentaries, literary works, and academic articles have been widely published in reputable journals, national dailies, and anthologies, stressing his influence in both the literary and academic worlds.

SYNW Global expressed its pride in the achievements of Dr. Gomba and Dr. Iornumbe, emphasizing that their contributions to literature, education, and culture serve as an inspiration to young writers across Nigeria. The society also recognized the role both men have played in mentoring the next generation of writers and scholars, fostering a vibrant literary community in Nigeria.

The statement concluded with SYNW Global wishing Dr. Obari Gomba and Dr. Charles Iornumbe many more years of success, creativity, and fulfillment. The society reaffirmed its commitment to celebrating and supporting the achievements of Nigerian writers, particularly those who continue to contribute meaningfully to the nation's cultural and intellectual heritage.

As Dr. Gomba and Dr. Iornumbe celebrate their birthdays, SYNW Global encouraged young writers to draw inspiration from their journeys and to continue pursuing excellence in their literary endeavors.