8th NOLA conference to spotlight African oral literatures, dramaturgies
* Dedicated to celebrate Prof. G.G. Darah
By Editor
THE countdown has begun for the highly anticipated 8th Nigeria Oral Literature Association (NOLA) Conference, scheduled to take place from Wednesday, November 20th to Friday, November 22nd, 2024. Set against the backdrop of the esteemed Dennis Osodebay University, Asaba, this year’s conference promises a rich exploration of African oral literatures, dramaturgies, and multimedia performances in the 21st century.
With a distinguished lineup of scholars, practitioners, and enthusiasts, the conference seeks to honour the prolific contributions of Professor Godini Gabriel Darah, a luminary in the oral literary field. Drawing inspiration from Ruth Finnegan’s seminal work, Oral Literature in Africa, the conference underscores the pivotal role of performance in the manifestation of oral literature and verbal arts.
From theoretical discourses to practical demonstrations, the event will delve into the intricate interplay between orality, creativity, and technology in African contexts. With roots tracing back to Oyin Ogunba’s groundbreaking doctoral thesis in 1967, the Nigerian academic landscape has witnessed a flourishing interest in orality, drama, and theatre over the past five decades.
Key themes to be explored include the dramaturgy of Nigerian festivals, the role of gender in oral literature, the nexus between oral resources and health narratives, and the poetics of conflict resolution. Renowned scholars such as Prof. Ademola O. Dasylva and Prof. Enajite Ojarega are slated to deliver keynote addresses and lead paper presentations, respectively.
As academia converges with cultural heritage, the conference aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and promote a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s rich oral traditions. With abstract submissions open until October 30th, 2024, scholars and researchers are encouraged to contribute their insights to this dynamic discourse.
To participate, send an abstract with a maximum of 250 words, including the author’s name, institutional affiliation, email address, and a brief bio note. Submit the abstract to nolaasabaconference2024@gmail.com not later than October 30th, 2023. Notification of acceptance will be sent from that date onwards. Upon acceptance, pay the registration fee of N20,000 for regular participants or N15,000 for postgraduate students, along with membership dues of N10,000, to the following account: Account: 1226750546 to Nola Oral Literature Association, Zenith Bank Plc. Once payment is confirmed, attendees will receive further details regarding the conference schedule, venue, and accommodations.
With the stage set for an intellectually stimulating exchange, the 8th NOLA Conference promises to be a landmark event in the realm of African oral literatures and dramaturgies.
For further inquiries regarding the registration process or general conference details, contact: Dr. Henry Unuajohwofia (Chairman, Conference Organizing Committee – +23480-2525-8352 and Dr. Peter E. Omoko (Secretary General – +23470-347 1220).
8th NOLA conference dedicated to oral literary expert, Prof. G.G. Darah
