Ibadan Book Club Pays Tribute To Dr. Awele Ilusanmi FANA At 50

**IBADAN BOOK CLUB PAYS TRIBUTE TO DR. AWELE ILUSANMI FANA AT 50**

The Ibadan Book Club has paid glowing tribute to Dr. Awele Ilusanmi FANA, a consistent supporter and benefactor of the Club, as she marks her 50th birthday. 

The Club described the golden jubilee as an opportunity to celebrate a woman whose generosity, commitment and passion for literature have continued to make a positive difference in the lives of writers and in the growth of literary activities in Ibadan and beyond.

This was contained in a press statement issued by the Founder of the Ibadan Book Club, Wole Adedoyin, who praised Dr. Awele Ilusanmi FANA for her remarkable and consistent support for the activities and members of the Club. Adedoyin described her as a passionate lover of books and literature whose contributions have continued to strengthen the Ibadan literary community.

According to the statement, Dr. Awele Ilusanmi FANA has, on a monthly basis, supported and financed the Ibadan Book Club's monthly reading programme since she began the initiative last year. Despite the financial demands associated with sustaining literary activities, she has remained committed and has never relented in her support, ensuring that the Club's monthly activities continue successfully.

Her contributions have also extended beyond the monthly book readings. Dr. Awele Ilusanmi FANA has supported the Club's workshops, book parties and other literary programmes, while also assisting some members of the Ibadan Book Club to publish their books. Through her generosity and commitment to the development of writers and literature, the Club has continued to wax stronger and provide opportunities for emerging and established writers.

Wole Adedoyin recalled that he has known Dr. Awele Ilusanmi FANA for more than fifteen years, describing her present achievements as the fulfilment of dreams and ideas she had shared with him many years ago. According to him, over fifteen years ago, Dr. Awele Ilusanmi FANA spoke passionately about her plans to support Nigerian authors and contribute to the growth of the country's literary industry. At the time, some of those ideas appeared ambitious, but years later, Adedoyin said he is delighted to see her accomplishing many of the visions she shared with him.

The statement further noted that Dr. Awele Ilusanmi FANA has made a remarkable name for herself in Nigeria's book industry through her innovative interventions and commitment to supporting authors and literary development. 

The Ibadan Book Club believes that she is doing important work that has opened new possibilities within the Nigerian book industry and has positively touched the lives and careers of many writers.

To the Ibadan Book Club, Dr. Awele Ilusanmi FANA has joined the ranks of great supporters of the Club, including Dr. Wale Okediran, Secretary General of the Pan African Writers Association, PAWA, and a former major financier and supporter of the Club. Wole Adedoyin stated that the history of the Ibadan Book Club cannot be written without mentioning the name of Dr. Awele Ilusanmi FANA, considering her tremendous impact on the Club and the lives of its members through her monthly sponsorship and support for its activities. 

The Club therefore wishes her a happy 50th birthday and prays for many more years of good health, happiness, fulfilment and greater accomplishments in her service to literature and humanity.

Wole Adedoyin Takes Over As ANA Acting General Secretary Following Joan Oji's Resignation

 

WOLE ADEDOYIN TAKES OVER AS ANA ACTING GENERAL SECRETARY FOLLOWING JOAN OJI'S RESIGNATION

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has announced the appointment of Mr. Wole Adedoyin as its Acting General Secretary, following the resignation of Dame Joan Oji, PhD, from the position of General Secretary and member of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Association. The appointment takes immediate effect and will subsist for the remainder of the current administration, which ends in 2027.

The announcement was made by the President of the Association, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, who explained that Dame Joan Oji voluntarily resigned her position following her relocation to the United States of America after being granted Permanent Residency. In line with the provisions of the Constitution of the Association of Nigerian Authors regarding officers resident outside Nigeria, the National Executive Council accepted her resignation with appreciation for her exceptional service to the Association.

Dr. Akanbi described Dame Joan Oji's tenure as one marked by unwavering dedication, integrity, professionalism, and administrative excellence. He noted that her outstanding contributions over the past thirty months played a pivotal role in restoring the dignity, stability, and operational effectiveness of the Association. According to him, her commitment to the ideals of ANA and her exemplary leadership have earned her a permanent place in the history of the Association.

Pursuant to the constitutional provisions of ANA, the Assistant General Secretary, Mr. Wole Adedoyin, has automatically assumed the office of Acting General Secretary. Consequently, his name and signature shall henceforth appear alongside that of the President on all official correspondence, policy documents, press statements, and communications issued on behalf of the Association.

Mr. Wole Adedoyin, an author, literary administrator, and cultural advocate, has served diligently as Assistant General Secretary since the inception of the current administration. Widely acknowledged for his commitment to literary development, effective communication, and organizational administration, he has contributed significantly to the implementation of several programmes and initiatives that have strengthened the Association's operations and public engagement.

Reacting to his appointment, Mr. Adedoyin expressed profound gratitude to the leadership and members of ANA for the confidence reposed in him. He paid glowing tribute to Dame Joan Oji, describing her as not only an outstanding General Secretary but also a mother, mentor, and administrator whose guidance and wealth of experience shaped his understanding of effective organizational leadership. He pledged to build upon the strong administrative foundation she established and to continue seeking her counsel whenever necessary.

In her response, Dame Joan Oji warmly congratulated Mr. Adedoyin on his new responsibility and expressed confidence in his capacity to lead the Secretariat successfully. Drawing from over four decades of experience as an educator, she described him as a faithful, available, and teachable leader whose dedication and willingness to learn have distinguished him within the Association. She assured him of her continued support and mentorship, expressing optimism that he would successfully steer the affairs of the Secretariat and eventually succeed as substantive General Secretary after the expiration of the current tenure in 2027.

The National Executive Council and the General Congress of ANA have expressed deep appreciation to Dame Joan Oji for her years of faithful and selfless service to the Association. Members acknowledged her invaluable role in strengthening institutional governance, improving administrative efficiency, and supporting initiatives that have repositioned ANA as Nigeria's foremost literary organization. They also celebrated her new milestone and wished her continued success, fulfilment, and God's guidance in all her future endeavours.

While accepting her resignation with mixed emotions, the Association emphasized that Dame Joan Oji remains an integral member of the ANA family despite her relocation. The leadership expressed optimism that she would continue to support the Association from abroad through mentorship, advisory roles, and participation in its programmes. ANA also looks forward to welcoming her physically at its forthcoming 45th International Convention and other future activities of the Association.

The Association of Nigerian Authors reiterated its commitment to continuity, institutional stability, and the promotion of literature and literary excellence in Nigeria and beyond. With the appointment of Mr. Wole Adedoyin as Acting General Secretary, the Association assures its members, partners, and stakeholders that its programmes, advocacy initiatives, membership services, and administrative activities will continue seamlessly as it pursues its vision of advancing Nigerian literature and nurturing generations of writers.

 

Poetry Enclave Set To Host First Nigerian Poetry Conference in Ibadan

POETRY ENCLAVE SET TO HOST FIRST NIGERIAN POETRY CONFERENCE IN IBADAN

Poetry Enclave (POEN), Ibadan, a literary organization established to promote the writing, reading, and performance of poetry, has announced plans to host the maiden edition of the Nigerian Poetry Conference (NIPOCON 2026). 

The conference, themed “Poetry for Activism and Change,” is scheduled to hold on August 7 and 8, 2026, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Speaking on the forthcoming conference, the Convener and President of Poetry Enclave (POEN), Ibadan, Ebika Anthony, stated that NIPOCON 2026 is designed to bring together poets, literary enthusiasts, scholars, performers, and advocates of social change from within and outside Oyo State.

According to him, the gathering will provide a platform for meaningful engagement on the role of poetry in shaping society.

Anthony noted that the conference theme reflects the enduring relevance of poetry as a powerful creative tool for advocacy, social consciousness, and transformation. He emphasized that poetry remains one of the most effective artistic mediums for addressing societal challenges, promoting justice, and inspiring positive change.

The two-day conference will feature a rich lineup of activities, including a keynote address, panel discussions on contemporary poetry, poetry readings and performances, poetry vibrations, and networking opportunities aimed at fostering collaboration among poets and literary stakeholders across Nigeria.

NIPOCON 2026 will take place at The Elders' Place, 17 Abinusawa Street, off Idi-Ape–Basorun Road, Ibadan, with renowned literary supporter Dr. David Adewole serving as the Chief Host. The venue is expected to provide an enabling environment for robust intellectual discourse and artistic expression.

Expected to deliver the keynote address is Dr. Akin Tella, a respected Nigerian academic in the Department of English, University of Ibadan. Dr. Tella's expertise spans discourse analysis, pragmatics, stylistics, varieties of English, and English grammar, making him one of the foremost scholars in language and literary studies in Nigeria.

His research contributions have focused extensively on discourse-oriented and stylistic analyses of literary texts, political communication, media narratives, and cultural expressions within the Nigerian context. Organizers believe his keynote presentation will provide valuable insights into the conference theme and stimulate meaningful conversations on the intersection of poetry, activism, and societal development.

The Convener further disclosed that participation in the conference requires a registration fee of Twenty Thousand Naira (₦20,000) per poet. The registration package includes an Ankara shirt and conference bag, conference book and certificate, writing materials, welcome cocktail, lunch, and a closing dinner for participants.

Interested poets and literary enthusiasts are encouraged to register early by contacting the Convener via WhatsApp on 08034822937 or by calling 08122467487. Organizers have assured prospective participants of a rewarding and memorable conference experience that will enrich their literary practice and professional networks.

With preparations in top gear, Poetry Enclave (POEN), Ibadan, is poised to make history with the successful hosting of the First Nigerian Poetry Conference. Supported by Elders' Place, Ibadan; Diamond FM/UI TV; Educare Trust Youth Centre, Ibadan; Accessible Publishers, Ibadan; Naija Poetry Fest Community, Lagos; Literary Authors Cooperative (LITACO), Lagos; African Heritage Research Library & Cultural Centre (AHRLC), Ibadan; and ATnT360 TV, Lagos, NIPOCON 2026 promises to be a landmark event that will leave an enduring imprint on Nigeria’s literary landscape and remain in the house of memory for years to come.

Ibadan Book Club St to Host Free One-Day Book Editing Training Workshop for Writers

 IBADAN BOOK CLUB SET TO HOST FREE ONE-DAY BOOK EDITING TRAINING WORKSHOP FOR WRITERS

The Ibadan Book Club has announced plans to organize a one-day free training workshop on Book Editing for writers, as part of its sustained efforts to equip creatives with contemporary tools for literary production and professional growth. 

The initiative stressed the Club’s commitment to nurturing literary excellence and empowering writers with relevant industry knowledge.

This disclosure was made in a press statement issued by the Convener of the workshop, Wole Adedoyin, who noted that the initiative aligns with the Club’s vision of keeping writers relevant in a rapidly evolving literary and publishing landscape. He emphasized that the training is designed to help writers adapt to modern demands in content creation and editing.

According to the statement, the workshop is designed to provide participants with practical and professional insights into the art of book editing. It aims to equip writers with the necessary skills to improve the quality of their manuscripts and better prepare their works for publication in a competitive industry.

Over the years, the Club, through its Ibadan Writers’ Studio, has successfully organized several impactful workshops aimed at strengthening the skills of writers and literary enthusiasts. These include Copyright Workshops, Book Review Workshops, Drama Writing Techniques Workshops, Publishing and Book Production Workshops, and sessions on artificial intelligence, which have consistently attracted participants from within and outside Ibadan, reinforcing the Club’s reputation as a hub for literary development.

The upcoming Book Editing workshop is scheduled to hold on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 12:00 PM, at the Board Room of the Oyo State Library Board, located opposite the historic Cocoa House in Dugbe, Ibadan. The accessible and central venue is expected to encourage broad participation.

Participants will be taken through a wide range of topics, including Introduction to Book Editing, what book editing is and why it matters, and the role of an editor versus a writer. The training will also cover stages of editing from manuscript to publication, and how effective collaboration between authors and editors enhances the final output.

Further areas of focus include line editing and copy editing, proofreading essentials, tools and resources for editors, and approaches to editing storytelling versus informational texts. The workshop will also highlight essential skills every editor needs and explain how editors fit into the publishing process.

In addition, participants will be exposed to common mistakes beginners should avoid, providing them with practical guidance to improve their editing competence. The comprehensive curriculum is structured to benefit both aspiring editors and writers seeking to refine their work.

The Guest Lecturer for the workshop is Mr. Jide Ogunlana, Chief Executive Officer of Lerato Book Publishers. A retired educationist, he has taught literature and English language from the primary school to the university level across three countries, including the National University of Lesotho.

With over three decades of editing experience, Ogunlana has developed English language textbooks for primary and secondary school learners in collaboration with numerous publishing companies. His publishing firm has produced notable titles, and he has built a reputation as an AI-human story editor, having worked on over 60 stories to enhance narrative quality, emotional depth, and readability.

The Ibadan Book Club stressed that the workshop is completely free of charge, reflecting its commitment to making knowledge accessible to writers regardless of economic background. Interested participants are required to send their name, age, location, and phone number via SMS or WhatsApp to 08072673852 to secure participation.

The Club also expressed profound gratitude to Dr. Awele Ilusanmi (FANA), President of the Literary Authors Cooperative Multipurpose Society of Nigeria and Founder of Book Marketing Class Africa, for her sustained monthly support. Her partnership, the statement noted, has been instrumental in ensuring the continuity and success of the Club’s literary engagements.

Call for Participation - Free Training Workshop On Book Editing for Writers

**CALL FOR PARTICIPATION – FREE TRAINING WORKSHOP ON BOOK EDITING FOR WRITERS**

**ORGANIZER: IBADAN BOOK CLUB**

Are you a writer who wants to learn book editing?

Here is an opportunity to register for a free training workshop on Book Editing for Writers.

This workshop is designed for writers, editors, journalists, librarians, and other literary professionals.

The workshop is free, and participants will be issued an electronic certificate of participation.

To register: Send your name, age, location, gender, and phone number to 08072673852.

(Strictly for writers in Oyo State and it's environs. No virtual arrangements.)

DATE: Saturday, 4th April, 2026

TIME: 12:00 PM

VENUE: Main Hall, Oyo State Library Board, opposite Cocoa House, Dugbe, Ibadan.

**ABOUT THE GUEST LECTURER**

Mr. Jide Ogunlana is a seasoned educator, editor, publisher, and award-winning writer with over three decades of experience in the literary and educational sectors. A retiree of the Oyo State Teaching Service, he has continued to make significant contributions to education by teaching Literature and English Language across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels in three countries, including at the National University of Lesotho.

In collaboration with a dedicated writing team, Mr. Ogunlana has developed English language textbooks for primary and secondary school learners, partnering with more than ten reputable publishing companies across Nigeria, including independent presses.

He is the founder of Lerato Book Publishers, a publishing house with an impressive catalogue of notable titles. These include The Polytechnic, Iresi: The Formative Years by Prof Samuel O. Ayodele; A Fulfilled Life of a Colossus: The Biography of High Chief Theophilus Olaleye Olutola (1924–2023), authored by Mr. Ogunlana; Intermediate Soil Microbiology by Prof Akinyemi Olayinka; and A Wonderful World (fiction) by Vincent Evhade.

An innovative professional, Mr. Ogunlana also works as an AI-Human Story Editor, specialising in refining AI-generated fiction to achieve natural voice, emotional depth, and narrative coherence. He has successfully edited over 60 such stories for various writers.

As a children’s author, he has published more than ten storybooks. Two of his works—Primrose and the Kidnappers and A Girl Called Corona Sofia—received the prestigious Association of Nigerian Authors Prize for Children’s Literature in 2018 and 2021, respectively.

Mr. Ogunlana’s editorial career spans over 30 years. He previously served as Senior Editor (Humanities) at Evans Brothers (Nigeria Publishers) Limited before establishing his own publishing outfit. Over the years, he has edited works by prominent writers, including the late Dr Amiel Dupe Fagbulu, Prof Samuel Ayodele, Dr Wale Okediran, Diipo Fagunwa, Dotun Saseyi, and Patrick Oguejiofor. He also contributed to the editorial team for the autobiography of a former Oyo State governor.

In addition to his editorial and publishing achievements, Mr. Ogunlana is a playwright. One of his works in Two Plays of Verbal Attack was staged at the Wole Soyinka Arts Theatre and was included in the reading list of The Polytechnic Ibadan. Several of his books have also been approved for use by the Oyo and Osun State Ministries of Education.

Through his multifaceted career, Mr. Ogunlana has demonstrated a sustained commitment to advancing literature, education, and publishing in Nigeria and beyond.

Malik, Adeleye, Jedidah To Headline February Edition of Ibadan Readers Roundtable

MALIK, ADELEYE, JEDIDAH TO HEADLINE FEBRUARY EDITION OF IBADAN READERS ROUNDTABLE

The Ibadan Book Club (IBC) has announced that the February edition of its prestigious Ibadan Readers Roundtable will feature three Ibadan-based writers as headline guests: Lekan Malik, Asmaa A. Adeleye, and Jedidah Temitope. 

The trio—comprising one male and two female writers—will lead literary conversations and readings at the highly anticipated gathering.

The event is scheduled to hold on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 12:00 PM at the Board Room of the Oyo State Library Board, located opposite the historic Cocoa House in Dugbe, Ibadan. The organizers have described the forthcoming session as a remarkable convergence of literary minds and an inspiring platform for creative engagement.

The Ibadan Readers Roundtable remains one of the flagship programmes of the Ibadan Book Club. Designed as an interactive literary forum, the Roundtable provides a vibrant space where writers, readers, critics, and aspiring authors engage in meaningful dialogue about books, creativity, publishing, and the evolving literary culture in Nigeria. Over time, it has grown into a respected platform for nurturing talents and strengthening Ibadan’s reputation as a city of letters.

In a statement released to the press, Wole Adedoyin, Founder of the Ibadan Book Club, noted that the February edition reflects the Club’s continued commitment to celebrating emerging and established voices within the literary community. He emphasized that the inclusion of diverse perspectives—across gender, genre, and generation—remains central to the vision of the Roundtable.

One of the headline guests, Lekan Malik, is a Nigerian author, poet, and teacher. A native of Ikorodu in Lagos State, he is the President of Citadel of the Literati and also serves as the Coordinator of the Creative Writers' Association of Nigeria (CWAN), Lagos State Chapter. A devoted Christian and family man, Malik is widely respected for his commitment to literary mentorship and community-based creative initiatives.

Also headlining the event is Asmaa A. Adeleye, a poet, creative writer, and avid reader whose passion for literature is both innate and deeply cultivated. A fourth-year student of the University of Ibadan, she continues to refine her voice and literary expression. Her works explore themes of personal development, wellness, religion, and life’s broader perceptions, offering reflective and thought-provoking insights.

Asmaa serves with the Queen Elizabeth II Hall Press under the poetry desk, where she actively contributes to the literary community. Her writings, known for their skillful use of literary devices and imaginative depth, appear across social media platforms, magazines, and digital publishing spaces such as Medium and Substack, reaching a growing global audience.

Jedidah Temitope, another distinguished guest for the session, is a Communication and Language Arts student at the University of Ibadan. She is the author of More Than Just a Freshman, a campus memoir released on April 3rd, which chronicles the pressures, growth, and defining experiences of her 100-level journey. The book has reached over 1,000 readers within Nigeria and abroad, resonating strongly with young people navigating similar transitions.

Beyond her debut publication, Jedidah writes poetry and reflective essays, drawing from personal experiences to tell honest and compelling stories. Currently working on new creative projects, she views writing as a means of preserving memories, expressing truth, and creating meaningful impact.

The Ibadan Book Club also extended special appreciation to Mrs. Awele Ilusanmi, FANA, President of the Literary Authors Cooperative Multipurpose Society of Nigeria and Founder of Book Marketing Class Africa (BMACA), for her unwavering monthly support to the Club. The Club expressed profound gratitude for her immense contributions and support throughout the previous year, describing her as a pillar of encouragement to the Ibadan literary community.

The Ibadan Book Club encourages literature enthusiasts, writers, students, and members of the public to attend this enriching edition of the Ibadan Readers Roundtable, promising an afternoon of stimulating conversations, creative inspiration, and community bonding within Ibadan’s vibrant literary space.

IBC Hails Dr. Awele Ilusanmi’s Emergence among 100 reputable Women of African Descent 2026

 

IBC HAILS DR. AWELE ILUSANMI’S EMERGENCE AMONG 100 REPUTABLE WOMEN OF AFRICAN DESCENT 2026

The Ibadan Book Club has heartily congratulated Dr. Awele Ilusanmi, FANA, on her nomination and emergence as one of the distinguished recipients of the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent 2026 Award. The Club described the honour as a well-deserved recognition of her unwavering commitment to literary development and humanitarian service.

This was contained in a press statement issued by the Founder of the Ibadan Book Club, Wole Adedoyin, who applauded Dr. Ilusanmi’s consistent dedication to uplifting writers, promoting African literature, and supporting community-based initiatives. He noted that her emergence on the prestigious list reflects years of impactful service and visionary leadership.

According to the release, Dr. Awele Ilusanmi is a renowned philanthropist and literary advocate who has facilitated the publication of over 100 authors through the Literary Authors Cooperative and Multipurpose Society of Nigeria (LITACO). Her efforts have provided a vital platform for both emerging and established writers to see their works published and gain wider recognition.

The statement further highlighted her financial and moral support for numerous literary organisations across Nigeria, including the Ibadan Book Club. Dr. Ilusanmi’s contributions have strengthened literary programming, enhanced reading culture initiatives, and empowered writers to pursue excellence in their craft.

Dr. Ilusanmi is the President and Co-founder of LITACO, a cooperative society dedicated to fostering collaboration, financial empowerment, and sustainable growth within the literary community. Under her leadership, LITACO has become a beacon of hope for authors seeking structure, mentorship, and publishing opportunities.

The 100 Reputable Women of African Descent 2026 Award recognises and celebrates women of African descent who demonstrate exceptional leadership, integrity, and character, while making significant contributions to their communities and industries. Dr. Ilusanmi’s selection underscores her remarkable influence and the far-reaching impact of her work.

The Ibadan Book Club therefore joins the global community in celebrating Dr. Awele Ilusanmi, FANA, for this outstanding achievement. The Club expressed confidence that her recognition will inspire more women across Africa and the diaspora to pursue excellence, lead with integrity, and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of literature and society at large.