Writers Celebrate Nigeria’s 64th Independence, Call for Reflection and Renewed Hope

 WRITERS CELEBRATE NIGERIA’S 64TH INDEPENDENCE, CALL FOR REFLECTION AND RENEWED HOPE

As Nigeria marks 64 years of independence, the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) has joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating this important milestone while urging reflection and renewed hope for the future.

In a statement released by SYNW President Wole Adedoyin, the organization highlighted Nigeria’s path to independence, achieved on October 1, 1960. While acknowledging the progress made over the years, SYNW noted that this anniversary is also an opportunity to assess the nation’s current state and the challenges it faces under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

SYNW emphasized that October 1 is a reminder of the hopes and dreams of Nigeria’s founding fathers, who envisioned a united, prosperous, and strong nation. Despite the progress made, the writers' group stressed the importance of evaluating how much has been achieved in realizing these ideals.

Reflecting on the Tinubu administration, which began in 2023, SYNW pointed out that the government is grappling with numerous challenges, including economic recovery. The organization acknowledged the administration’s efforts but expressed concern about rising inflation, unemployment, and the ongoing impact of the global economic downturn. The skyrocketing cost of living has left many Nigerians struggling to meet their basic needs, particularly the most vulnerable.

Security remains a critical issue across the country. While security agencies have made efforts to address terrorism, banditry, and insurgency, SYNW noted that violence and unrest persist in several regions. The group urged the government to explore more effective strategies to protect lives and property.

On education, SYNW voiced alarm over the dire state of the nation’s schools and universities. Chronic underfunding, deteriorating facilities, and frequent strikes have disrupted academic activities, discouraging young Nigerians. SYNW called on the Tinubu administration to increase funding for education and introduce reforms to improve the quality of learning at all levels.

Healthcare, too, is in a precarious state. SYNW drew attention to the widespread underfunding of public hospitals, which suffer from outdated equipment, shortages of medical supplies, and insufficient healthcare workers. Many Nigerians are left with little choice but to seek care in private hospitals or travel abroad for treatment. The organization urged the government to prioritize investments in healthcare infrastructure and improve service delivery.

Youth unemployment is another pressing challenge. With Nigeria’s youth population growing rapidly, many young people are facing limited job opportunities. SYNW called on the government to create more employment pathways, expand vocational training, and support entrepreneurship to empower the youth and drive national development.

In the digital age, SYNW noted that while Nigeria has made progress in technology and innovation, it still lags behind in digital infrastructure and access. The organization urged the government to expand internet access, especially in rural areas, and to foster technological advancements that can boost economic growth and create opportunities for the youth.

Corruption remains a major barrier to Nigeria’s progress. While acknowledging the Tinubu administration’s efforts to combat corruption, SYNW stressed the need for stronger measures to ensure transparency and accountability in governance. Upholding the rule of law and ensuring that corrupt practices are dealt with decisively are essential to restoring public trust.

On a positive note, SYNW commended the government’s efforts in infrastructure development, particularly in road construction, railway expansion, and power generation. These projects have the potential to stimulate economic growth and improve the quality of life for Nigerians. However, SYNW emphasized the importance of equitable distribution to ensure that all regions benefit from these developments.

As Nigeria celebrates 64 years of independence, SYNW called on citizens to reflect on the nation’s journey and consider how they can contribute to its development. While the challenges are significant, the resilience and determination that have defined Nigeria’s history offer hope for a brighter future.

The group also urged the Tinubu administration to renew its commitment to addressing key issues such as economic recovery, security, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment, which are essential to driving Nigeria’s progress and prosperity.

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.

IHRAM Announces Release of Anthology ‘Her Rights, Our Stories’

 

IHRAM ANNOUNCES RELEASE OF ANTHOLOGY ‘HER RIGHTS, OUR STORIES’

 

By Wole Adedoyin

The International Human Rights Art Movement (IHRAM) has announced the upcoming release of its latest anthology, Her Rights, Our Stories: A Collection of Poems and Essays on the Plight of Women and Girls in Africa (Hear the Voices Series). This groundbreaking 119-page book, edited by Geraldine Sinyuy and Wole Adedoyin, is scheduled for public release on September 1, 2024, and is now available for pre-sale.

Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Tom Block, Founder and Executive Director of IHRAM, Her Rights, Our Stories emerges as a poignant collective voice for women and girls across Africa. This anthology features the works of 29 authors from various countries, each contributing a unique perspective on the injustices faced by women in Africa, and the critical need for societal change.

Her Rights, Our Stories is not just a book; it is a call to action. The anthology urges stakeholders at all levels, from grassroots organizations to urban policymakers, to unite in the fight against the pervasive violence and discrimination faced by women and girls in Africa. The book advocates for a gender-inclusive society, emphasizing that such a society is not only more just but also more resilient and prosperous.

The anthology features contributions from a diverse group of authors including Ayo Ayoola-Amale (Nigeria), Chisomo Ponell Bangula (Malawi), Lola Fabowale (Canada/Nigeria), Doreen Mwenda (Zambia), Adama Lami Yusuf (Nigeria), Rahma Ahmed (United Kingdom/Somalia), Fiddy Tamanda Nangwale (Malawi), Nokuthula Mkwanazi (South Africa), Eudiah Kamonjo (Kenya), Dr. Mary Kamwaza (Malawi), Shulamite Njideka Muoka (Nigeria), Sheba Lishika-Dzekedzeke (Zambia), Fadeelah Raya Abubakar (Nigeria), Love Olufunke Saba (Nigeria), Pacella Chukwuma-Eke (Nigeria), Imaan Wallenburg (South Africa), Chioma Iwuala (nee Duruzo) (Nigeria), Nusrat Lasisi (Nigeria), Ndukwo Mary Chidinma (Nigeria), Solape Adetutu Adeyemi (Nigeria), Adetola Eyimofe Jerry-Adesewo (Nigeria), Anyaobasi Ginikachi Glory (Nigeria), Juliet Chinazaekpere Udedike (Nigeria), Dr. Mark Ogbodo (Nigeria), Oparah Mitchell Osinachukwu (Nigeria), Joy Aniju Ogbitse (Nigeria), Modupe Joel (Nigeria), Nagasha Martina (Uganda), and Odewumi Joy Odifemenuwe (Nigeria).

Through poems and essays, Her Rights, Our Stories addresses critical issues such as gender-based violence, educational disparities, and economic inequality. The anthology also celebrates the resilience and strength of African women, offering hope and inspiration to readers and communities alike.

Edited with care and precision by Geraldine Sinyuy and Wole Adedoyin, the book showcases a wide array of literary styles and voices, ensuring that every reader finds something that resonates with them. The contributors come from diverse backgrounds and experiences, yet they all share a common goal: to shed light on the challenges faced by women and girls in Africa and to inspire change.

As part of the Hear the Voices Series, this anthology continues IHRAM's mission to use art and literature as tools for human rights advocacy. The movement believes that by amplifying the voices of the marginalized, society can begin to address the root causes of inequality and injustice.

Her Rights, Our Stories will be available for purchase on Amazon starting September 1, 2024. Pre-orders can be made through the following link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DBG5CJ89?ref_=pe_93986420_774957520. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with this powerful collection and support the ongoing fight for gender equality in Africa.

For more information about IHRAM, click on this link. https://humanrightsartmovement.org/

 

Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies Publishes Two Nigerian Writers

 

CAUCASUS JOURNAL OF MILTON STUDIES PUBLISHES TWO NIGERIAN WRITERS

 

By Wole Adedoyin

The prestigious Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies (CJMS) has proudly announced the publication of works by two talented Nigerian writers, Abdullahi Yahaya and Psalmuel Benjamin Oluwasheun. Yahaya's Touch of Love was featured in the journal's first quarter edition (https://www.cjojms.com/index.php/research/issue/view/11), while Oluwasheun's The Portrait of Grief appeared in the second quarter (https://www.cjojms.com/index.php/research/issue/view/12),  marking a significant achievement for both authors.

CJMS (e-ISSN: 2720-8222) is an international, peer-reviewed journal that publishes high-quality, original research in English. Focused on the life and works of the renowned English writer John Milton, the journal accepts original research articles, review articles, and poetry inspired by Milton's literary contributions.

Founded by Professor Edward R. Raupp, Ph.D., a Professor of Humanities at Gori State University, and established under the auspices of the Milton Society of Georgia, the Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies (CJMS) has emerged as a crucial platform for scholars and writers from around the globe. The journal has consistently highlighted and published works by Nigerian writers, reflecting its dedication to promoting diverse voices and perspectives.

The inclusion of Abdullahi Yahaya and Psalmuel Benjamin Oluwasheun in CJMS highlights the journal's ongoing efforts to expand its reach within Africa. This initiative not only enriches the journal's content but also provides African writers with the opportunity to hone, enhance, and publish their works on a global stage.

Abdullahi Yahaya, a 22-year-old writer from Rikkos, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, has been passionate about creative writing since his secondary school days. His work often addresses social and political issues, aiming to evoke strong emotions and provoke thought among readers. Yahaya has won numerous literary awards and has been published in various local and international platforms. He is also a member of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW).

Psalmuel Benjamin Oluwasheun, a poet and spoken word artist from Ewekoro in Ogun State, Nigeria, has also made a name for himself in the literary world. His works, including REUNION and his contribution to JOURNEYS, an anthology by Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, have been widely recognized. Oluwasheun's writing, featured in numerous publications, explores themes of displacement, migration, and faith, reflecting his deep engagement with contemporary issues.

CJMS's decision to publish the works of Yahaya and Oluwasheun stressed the journal's commitment to promoting literary talent from diverse backgrounds. By offering a platform for these Nigerian writers, the journal continues to support the growth and development of African literature.

Both writers express their gratitude to CJMS for the opportunity to share their work with an international audience. They hope that their stories will resonate with readers and contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding the themes explored in their writing.

As CJMS continues to publish groundbreaking research and literary works, the journal remains a beacon for writers and scholars dedicated to exploring the rich legacy of John Milton and beyond.