Call for Participation – Ibadan Children’s Literature Workshop

 

CALL FOR PARTICIPATION – IBADAN CHILDREN’S LITERATURE WORKSHOP

 

Are you a children's writer or interested in writing for children? Here’s a unique opportunity to enhance your skills and deepen your understanding of children’s literature at this month’s Free Children's Literature Workshop!

DATE: 30th November, 2024
VENUE: Oyo State Library Board, Opposite Cocoa House, Dugbe, Ibadan, Oyo State
TIME: 12:00 PM

Topics to Be Covered:

• Understanding Children's Literature: Exploring its significance and impact.
• Genres of Children's Books: Picture books, chapter books, middle-grade fiction, young adult novels, and more.
• Cultural Shaping Through Literature: The role of children's books in shaping values and traditions.
• Age-Appropriate Writing: Crafting content suitable for different age groups.
• Storytelling Techniques: Developing plot, characters, and themes for young audiences.
• Dialogue and Narrative: Writing engaging and relatable stories for children.
• Illustrations in Children's Books: Their importance and how to collaborate with illustrators.
• Addressing Sensitive Topics: Approaching issues like bullying, grief, and disability effectively.
• Incorporating Local Culture: Reflecting indigenous traditions and languages in stories.
• Publishing Options: Traditional vs. self-publishing, and tips for working with literary agents.
• Marketing Strategies: Promoting books via social media, school visits, and book fairs.
• Copyright Essentials: Protecting intellectual property in children's publishing.

BENEFIT:

• Certificate of Participation will be issued to all attendees.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from experts and network with fellow writers passionate about children's literature.

For inquiries or registration, please contact [[Wole Adedoyin on 08072673852].].

We look forward to welcoming you to this enlightening workshop!

 

MEET OUR GUEST LECTURER/WRITER

Jide Ogunlana is a celebrated novelist, editor, playwright, and professional publisher whose literary contributions have earned him a place among Nigeria’s most accomplished writers. Two of his plays, Verbal Violence and Clash of the Gods, were successfully staged at the prestigious Wole Soyinka Theatre, University of Ibadan. His short story collection, From Marriage to Prison, is widely read at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and other higher institutions. Additionally, his short stories and excerpts have been featured in various editions of the ANA Review published by the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA).

A multiple award-winning author, Ogunlana’s children’s storybook, Primrose and the Kidnappers, won the 2018 ANA Prize for Children’s Literature. In 2021, his storybook A Girl Called Corona Sofia garnered the same prestigious award, solidifying his reputation as an outstanding writer for young audiences. Many of Ogunlana’s books are also featured in the approved reading lists of Oyo and Osun States' Ministries of Education, attesting to their educational value and cultural significance.

Ogunlana’s publications reflect his versatility and creativity, spanning genres and languages. They include Esin Amope (in Yoruba), The Adventure of Three Wild Boys (published under the pseudonym Wale Adewale), The 3rd of March and Out of This World, and Awesu in a Strange House.

As an editor, Ogunlana’s career began with Evans Brothers (Nig. Publishers) Ltd, where he gained extensive experience as a Senior Editor, working with renowned local and international authors. He later founded his own publishing company, Lerato Book Publishers, where he continues to excel as a writer, editor, rewriter, and publisher. Ogunlana has also edited remarkable works by notable Nigerian authors, including the prose of Dr. Wale Okediran, Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) and former Member of the House of Representatives. His editing portfolio includes the biography of a former governor and the prose of Diipo Fagunwa, the only surviving child of the legendary D.O. Fagunwa.

Ogunlana has also distinguished himself as a biographer, authoring the autobiographies of notable figures such as High Chief Theophilus Olaleye Olutola, the Odofin of Ijebu-Jesa, and Prof. Samuel Olusegun Ayodele, a renowned professor of Language Education.

As an active member of the Association of Nigerian Authors, Ogunlana recently served as Chairman of the Electoral Committee for the 2024 elections of the Oyo State chapter of ANA. He is also a patron of the Ibadan Book Club, where his contributions to literary development are greatly appreciated.

With an impressive career spanning writing, publishing, and mentorship, Jide Ogunlana continues to inspire both readers and writers with his dedication to advancing literature and education.

 

SYNW Congratulates Farida Mohammed on Her 57th Birthday

 SYNW CONGRATULATES FARIDA MOHAMMED ON HER 57TH BIRTHDAY

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) has Congratulated Hajia Farida Mohammed, the immediate past National Vice President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), on the joyous occasion of her 57th birthday.

This message of felicitation was conveyed in a statement issued by Wole Adedoyin, the President of SYNW. In the statement, Adedoyin highlighted Farida Mohammed's immense contributions to the literary community in Nigeria, describing her as a passionate and dedicated leader whose efforts have inspired many young writers across the country.

Hajia Farida Mohammed, a seasoned educator, served as the Chairperson of the Niger State Chapter of ANA before rising to the position of National Treasurer and eventually National Vice President of the association. Her tenure in these roles was marked by her unwavering commitment to the development of literature and the support of writers at all levels.

Adedoyin commended Hajia Mohammed for her tireless advocacy for the literary arts and her instrumental role in advancing ANA’s objectives. He noted that her legacy of service continues to resonate within the Nigerian literary community and beyond.

The SYNW President also used the occasion to call on young writers to emulate Hajia Mohammed's dedication and passion for literature, emphasizing the importance of leadership and mentorship in building a sustainable literary ecosystem in Nigeria.

As Hajia Farida Mohammed marks her 57th birthday, SYNW wished her continued success, good health, and prosperity. Her contributions to the growth of Nigerian literature remain a testimony to her enduring impact on the country's cultural and intellectual landscape.

Soludo, Obi, Obaze, Others Expected at 2024 Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture

 SOLUDO, OBI, OBAZE, OTHERS EXPECTED AT 2024 ACHEBE LITERARY FESTIVAL AND MEMORIAL LECTURE 

Awka, the capital city of Anambra State, will be agog on Saturday, as top public figures, writers, intellectuals, literary activists, book lovers, and others, as young writers in the State set to host the 2024 edition of the Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture.

Izunna Okafor, the State Coordinator of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (Anambra State Chapter), disclosed this on Wednesday in Awka while giving update on the association's preparedness for the 2024 edition of the Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture.

According to him, Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture, initiated in 2016 and currently in its 9th edition, is a literary event the association annually organizes in honour and memory of Nigerian literary icon, Late Prof. Chinua Achebe, in celebration of his life, works and legacies. He added that this year's event will (as usual) hold on Achebe's birthday, November 16, 2024, at the Anambra State Central E-Library (also known as the Prof. Kenneth Dike State Central E-Library Library) in Awka, starting at 9AM prompt; with many dignitaries and participants in attendance.

While revealing this year's theme of the event as “Remembering Achebe... In a Time Like This”; Okafor further disclosed that the 2024 Achebe Memorial Lecture will be delivered by former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi; while the current Governor of the State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo would be the Special Guest of Honour.

He added that this year's event would be Chaired by an author and former official of the United Nations, Mr. Oseloka Obaze, who is also a former Secretary to the State Government in Anambra. Okafor further noted that award-winning writer and Traditional Ruler of Obosi, H.R.H. Igwe Chidubem Iweka; the Traditional Ruler of Achebe's hometown, Ogidi, H.R.H. Igwe Pharm. Alex Uzo Onyido; and the Traditional Ruler of Umueri, Igwe Sir Ben Emeka, an ardent promoter of education will grace the occasion as the Royal Fathers of the Day; among many other dignitaries expected at the event.

“The event will feature the 2024 Achebe Lecture, drama, spoken word poetry, announcement of the winners of the 2024 Chinua Achebe Essay Writing Competition (for secondary schools), special reading, award presentation, among other literary packages slated for the day,” Okafor said.

He hinted that the occasion will also feature the unveiling and presentation of the 9th Chinua Achebe Poetry/Essay Anthology, titled “Echoes from the Anthills”; which is the association's latest international anthology of poems and essays, published in honour and memory of Achebe ahead of the event.

The annual international anthology, he explained, is one of the writers' way of immortalizing Achebe, and contains poems, essays, and reviews written and submitted by writers from different countries of the world.

Reports have it that the Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture has attracted many good legs and good heads to Anambra State, and remains one of the most popular and sustained literary festivals in Africa, since the last nine years of its inception and still counting.

Okafor, an award-winning author and journalist further revealed that this year's edition of the open-to-all event, which will also mark Achebe's 94th posthumous birthday and eleven years of his death, will equally be graced by arrays of literary icons from within and outside the country, who will be storming Awka to honour the legendary author, Achebe.

Born November 16, 1930, Prof. Chinua Achebe, who hailed from Ogidi in Anambra State, was a foremost Nigerian writer, critic, and author of Things Fall Apart. He died on March 21, 2013, at the age of 82. Since 2016, Chinua Achebe Literary Festival holds on Achebe's birthday every year till date.

Campus Writers To Commemorate Chinua Achebe’s 94th Posthumous Birthday with a National Writers Tour

 

CAMPUS WRITERS TO COMMEMORATE CHINUA ACHEBE'S 94TH POSTHUMOUS BIRTHDAY WITH A  NATIONAL WRITERS TOUR

By Wole Adedoyin

November 16, 2024, will mark the 94th posthumous birthday of the celebrated author Chinua Achebe, whose groundbreaking novel Things Fall Apart continues to shape and define African literature. 

In honor of this literary giant, the Nigeria Society of Campus Writers (NSCW) is hosting a Writers Tour, a unique celebration aimed at bridging the gap between authors, readers, and young writers across Nigeria. 

This tour, organized under the NSCW’s “Campus Writers” initiative, was announced by the President of the Society, Maduekwe Cynthia Chinenye, in a press release today.

The event, themed Commemorating the Legendary Chinua Achebe: Writers Tour Celebrates a Literary Icon, seeks to pay tribute to Achebe’s enduring influence on global literature. His works, especially Things Fall Apart, have served as a beacon for African voices in storytelling, challenging stereotypes and redefining the narrative around African identity, culture, and history. According to Chinenye, the tour will honor Achebe’s remarkable contributions by creating a platform where established authors, emerging writers, and literature enthusiasts can gather to celebrate and discuss the power of storytelling.

The Writers Tour will feature a series of engaging activities across selected campuses, including author meet-and-greets, book readings, and dedicated discussions about Achebe's life, works, and legacy. By bringing authors and readers together, the NSCW aims to inspire the next generation of Nigerian writers and ignite a renewed passion for African literature among young people. This interactive format not only celebrates Achebe’s legacy but also encourages dialogue and connection around African storytelling traditions.

According to Chinenye, the tour also aligns with Achebe's vision of empowering African writers to shape their own narratives. “The Writers Tour honors Chinua Achebe’s remarkable legacy, celebrating the power of storytelling to unite and inspire,” she stated. “As a society, we are thrilled to bring authors and readers together, fostering a deeper appreciation for literature and the vital role it plays in cultural preservation and social change.”

Among the highlights of the Writers Tour will be a special series of tribute sessions focused on Achebe’s work, including readings from Things Fall Apart and his other celebrated novels, Arrow of God and No Longer at Ease. These sessions will explore the themes of identity, colonialism, and resilience that Achebe powerfully addressed, making his work relevant to generations past and present.

Other key features of the tour include book signings and personalized dedications from authors, creating cherished memories for attendees. Aspiring writers will have the rare opportunity to connect with publishing professionals, offering insights into the literary industry and advice on advancing their writing careers. These interactions are expected to strengthen the bond between authors and readers, in line with Achebe’s belief in the transformative power of literature.

The NSCW has also announced the presence of acclaimed authors who will share their latest releases and experiences with young writers, helping them see the possibilities within Nigerian and African storytelling. The tour aims to emphasize Achebe’s philosophy of literary authenticity, encouraging writers to tell their stories with originality and truth.

As the tour progresses across different campuses, NSCW hopes it will ignite a new era of literary appreciation and artistic collaboration among Nigerian youths. The society’s commitment to fostering a vibrant literary community in honor of Chinua Achebe’s memory demonstrates their dedication to upholding his vision of a unified African voice in literature.

For the NSCW, commemorating Achebe’s 94th posthumous birthday through this Writers Tour is both a tribute and a call to action. It stands as a testimony to Achebe’s belief in the potential of young African writers to make an impact, inspiring generations to come.

SYNW Celebrates Denja Abdulahi’s Appointment as NCC Ambassador

 

SYNW CELEBRATES DENJA ABDULAHI'S APPOINTMENT AS NCC AMBASSADOR

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) has congratulated Mallam Denja Abdulahi, former President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) and Founder of the Orpheus Literary Foundation, on his recent appointment as an Ambassador of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC). 

This honor, presented by the NCC’s Director General, Mr. John O. Asein, recognized Abdulahi’s commitment to the advancement of copyright protection in Nigeria.

In a statement issued by Wole Adedoyin, President of SYNW, the society lauded Abdulahi’s dedication and impact in the field of intellectual property rights. Adedoyin highlighted Abdulahi’s extensive contributions to Nigeria’s literary landscape and his efforts to safeguard the works and rights of creators, stating that his role as an NCC Ambassador is a well-deserved acknowledgment of his legacy in Nigerian literature.

The NCC Ambassadorial title is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to the promotion and protection of copyright. Abdulahi, known for his work with the Orpheus Literary Foundation, has actively advocated for copyright awareness among writers and creators, addressing the need for stronger intellectual property rights in Nigeria. His advocacy has empowered many Nigerian writers to take a proactive approach in protecting their creative works.

According to the release, Abdulahi’s efforts extend beyond advocacy; he has also taken actionable steps to ensure the rights of creators are protected. Through his leadership at ANA and the Orpheus Literary Foundation, he has organized seminars, workshops, and campaigns focused on copyright awareness. His role as an NCC Ambassador will further amplify these initiatives, encouraging creators to understand and safeguard their rights.

SYNW sees Abdulahi’s appointment as a positive step forward for the Nigerian literary community. “This recognition brings hope to young writers, inspiring them to value and protect their intellectual property,” said Adedoyin. 

He expressed optimism that Abdulahi’s ambassadorship would lead to a greater understanding of copyright issues among emerging writers, while also raising awareness of the importance of fair use and ethical sharing.

The Nigerian Copyright Commission, under the leadership of Mr. John O. Asein, has actively sought to improve copyright enforcement in Nigeria. The appointment of notable figures like Abdulahi as NCC Ambassadors serves as part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to promote a culture of respect for intellectual property. 

With Abdulahi’s leadership and expertise, the NCC aims to strengthen its mission to protect the rights of authors, musicians, filmmakers, and other creators across Nigeria.

Abdulahi’s ambassadorship comes at a critical time when copyright infringement and plagiarism are pressing issues in the Nigerian creative industry. His involvement is expected to encourage new policies and initiatives focused on supporting the rights of creators and ensuring that they benefit from their intellectual work. 

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers hopes that Abdulahi’s appointment will help to bridge the gap between policy makers and creative professionals, fostering an environment where creative rights are universally respected.

As SYNW celebrates Abdulahi’s achievement, the organization reiterated its commitment to working closely with the NCC and other stakeholders to support copyright education among young writers. 

The society emphasized the importance of educating emerging writers on their rights and the tools available to protect their intellectual property in today’s digital age.

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers once again congratulated Mallam Denja Abdulahi on this prestigious appointment. 

SYNW expressed confidence that his ambassadorship will mark the beginning of a new chapter in copyright awareness and advocacy within the Nigerian literary community, further empowering writers to protect their creative efforts and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s cultural and intellectual heritage.

Writers Congratulate Prof. Chinwe Veronica Anunobi on NLN’s 60th Anniversary

 

WRITERS CONGRATULATE PROF. CHINWE VERONICA NWAKAEGO ANUNOBI ON NLN’S 60TH ANNIVERSARY

 

Writers under the aegis of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW Global) have extended their heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Chinwe Veronica Nwakaego Anunobi, the National Librarian and Chief Executive Officer of the National Library of Nigeria (NLN), on the momentous occasion of the NLN’s 60th anniversary. The milestone commemorates six decades of impactful contributions to Nigeria’s literary and educational landscape.

This statement was issued by the President of SYNW Global, Wole Adedoyin, in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.

Founded under the National Library Act of 1964, the National Library of Nigeria has developed into a cornerstone institution, preserving, organizing, and promoting access to Nigeria’s literary and cultural heritage. SYNW Global applauded the NLN's significant role over the past 60 years in promoting literacy, research, and knowledge dissemination nationwide. “The NLN’s unwavering dedication to advancing reading culture and supporting education is truly commendable, and we are thrilled to celebrate this milestone with Prof. Anunobi and her team,” Adedoyin stated.

Under Prof. Anunobi’s leadership, the NLN has continually expanded its services and broadened its reach across various parts of Nigeria. Her dynamic leadership approach has driven modernization efforts, introducing innovative projects that stressed her commitment to making information more accessible to all Nigerians. SYNW Global lauded her forward-thinking vision, which has enhanced the library’s digital capabilities and fostered a vibrant reading culture throughout the country.

Prof. Anunobi’s tenure has seen the launch of numerous initiatives aimed at promoting reading among young Nigerians, including outreach programs, digital archives, and reading competitions. The Society of Young Nigerian Writers recognized these efforts as vital to nurturing a generation of informed, engaged readers and writers and attributes much of the recent progress in Nigeria’s literary landscape to her effective stewardship of the NLN.

The NLN’s 60th anniversary serves as a celebration of its legacy and an opportunity to consider its future. SYNW Global urged the government and other stakeholders to continue their support for the NLN’s mission, particularly by increasing investment in library infrastructure, resources, and technology. According to Adedoyin, “Adequate support for the NLN is essential to sustaining Nigeria’s intellectual growth and ensuring that knowledge remains accessible to every Nigerian.”

In honor of this anniversary, SYNW Global plans to collaborate with the NLN on projects that will engage young writers and readers nationwide. This partnership aims to highlight the essential role libraries play in nurturing creativity, promoting literacy, and preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage. “We look forward to working closely with Prof. Anunobi to inspire young writers to appreciate and utilize the wealth of library resources available to them,” said Adedoyin.

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers encouraged young Nigerians to take full advantage of the National Library’s facilities, viewing it as more than a repository of books but as a gateway to knowledge, creativity, and personal development. SYNW Global believed that under Prof. Anunobi’s guidance, the NLN will continue to evolve, staying relevant to the needs of present and future generations.

As the NLN celebrates six decades of excellence, SYNW Global reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a culture of reading and writing in Nigeria. This milestone attests to the resilience of Nigeria’s educational institutions and their lasting impact on society. Prof. Anunobi’s inspiring leadership will continue motivating young writers to engage with and contribute to Nigeria’s vibrant literary heritage.

SYNW Global finally extended its warmest wishes to Prof. Anunobi and the entire NLN team on this historic occasion. The Society remains optimistic that the next 60 years will bring even greater accomplishments for the National Library, with Prof. Anunobi’s legacy laying the foundation for continued growth and transformation within Nigeria’s literary and educational sectors.