Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has applauded the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW), Anambra Stare Chapter, for its consistent efforts in yearly celebrating the literary legacies of the internationally-acclaimed literary legend, Prof. Chinua Achebe, which he noted is the best way to immortalise the literary icon.
Obi was the keynote speaker at the 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture by the Izuuna Okafor-led Society at the Prof. Kenneth Dike State Central E-Library, Awka, Anambra State capital. The theme of the event was “Ten Years After: Remembering Achebe’s Legacies in Today’s Nigeria.”
The 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival, it was learnt, featured the unveiling of the 8th Chinua Achebe Poetry/Essay Anthology – “Anthills of Words (In Memory of Achebe),” cutting Achebe’s 93rd post-humous birthday cake, poetry renditions and dramatising of Achebe’s books, Chinua Achebe Essay Writing Competition, and the presentation of certificates/awards to deserving personalities.
Obi described Achebe as a revered writer whose literary contributions have left an indelible mark on the global literary landscape. While lauding the society for also nurturing and promoting literary talents in Anambra State, he urged young writers to draw inspiration from Achebe’s works and use their creativity to address contemporary societal issues.
Also speaking, a notable novelist, and traditional ruler of Obosi, Idemili North Local Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, observed that late Achebe was a great literary icon whose books were translated into many national and international languages. He, therefore, encouraged the students to remain focused on their studies and not be deterred by the challenges of the times.
Iweka also urged the students to constantly seek knowledge through books and serve as proud ambassadors of Igbo language and culture anywhere, anytime.
In his remarks, the former Secretary to the State Government and former Nigerian Diplomat, Oseloka Obaze, commended the organisers of the event for their dedication to promoting literary arts and preserving the legacy of Chinua Achebe; highlighting the significance of such events in fostering intellectual growth and cultural awareness among the youth.
He restated the importance of reading as a cornerstone for personal and intellectual development, urging the youths to embrace Achebe’s legacy not only through celebrations, but also by actively participating in the literary world, ensuring that the flame of enlightenment continues to burn brightly in Anambra State and beyond.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Convener of the event and Coordinator of the society in the state, Okafor said the primary aim of the event was to celebrate Achebe as an hero and eagle on the Iroko of African Literature, immortalise him in their own way as young writers and keep his memory alive.
Okafor appreciated Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for recently immortalising Achebe by naming the state airport after him.
“Aside from these, we also, through this event, promote, encourage and reward creative writing and reading culture among our youths and students; discover and harness amazing talents among our young ones, while also presenting writers and readers (intellectuals) as the elixirs to the country’s ailments, among other objectives we pursue through it,” Okafor added.
Contributing, former MD/CEO, Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Chief Uche Nworah, echoed the call for preservation of cultural heritage as a key aspect of Achebe’s literary legacy, emphasising that Achebe’s works served as a bridge connecting the past, present, and future of the Igbo people and fostering a sense of identity and pride.
Nwora further encouraged the youths to delve into Achebe’s novels and essays, viewing them not only as literary masterpieces, but also as valuable repositories of Igbo traditions.
