ANA reaffirms commitment to literary development, flags industry challenges at NEC
By Editor
FOLLOWING a strategic meeting of its National Executive Council (NEC) with chapter chairmen and secretaries in Abuja, the Association of Nigerian Authors (ana) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Nigerian literature and strengthening the country’s cultural landscape.
The meeting, held at the Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, brought together literary leaders from across the country to deliberate on key issues affecting the association, the Nigerian literary community, and the broader cultural environment.
In a communique issued at the end of the session, the NEC restated the association’s dedication to its founding ideals of promoting Nigerian literature, encouraging creative expression, nurturing emerging writers, and sustaining intellectual engagement in national development. The council commended state chapters for sustaining literary activities such as readings, workshops, and public engagements despite prevailing economic difficulties.
The NEC also noted improvements in internal cohesion within the association, highlighting the resolution of disputes in several chapters and the return of previously inactive chapters to full participation. It described the development as a significant step toward strengthening unity and institutional stability within ANA.
A major focus of the meeting was the expansion of literary programmes and platforms. The council reviewed progress on the Ken Saro-Wiwa International Writers’ Residency Programme, emphasizing its importance as a platform for nurturing creativity and fostering international engagement among Nigerian writers. It also received updates on preparations for the 2026 ANA International Convention and urged members nationwide to ensure robust participation.
Further attention was given to key literary initiatives, including the Chinua Achebe Prize for Literature and activities marking the 80th birthday of renowned playwright Femi Osofisan. The NEC said these programmes are central to strengthening Nigeria’s literary ecosystem and preserving its cultural heritage.
ANA President, Dr. Usman Akanbi
Beyond programmes, the council expressed concern over mounting challenges facing writers and the publishing industry in Nigeria. It identified rising production costs, limited access to publishing infrastructure, and a declining reading culture among young people as critical issues requiring urgent attention.
Consequently, the NEC called on the Federal Government of Nigeria and relevant stakeholders to prioritize the development of the literary and creative sectors. It urged increased investment in libraries, literary festivals, book development initiatives, and educational programmes aimed at promoting reading and creative writing among Nigerian youths.
The meeting also reviewed internal initiatives such as the Yusuf Ali Awareness Grant and the ongoing membership revalidation exercise, stressing the importance of accountability, transparency, and institutional strengthening in sustaining the association’s growth.
Reaffirming the broader relevance of literature, the council maintained that creative writing remains a powerful tool for social reflection, national healing, and democratic development. It pledged that the association would continue to play its historic role in shaping intellectual discourse and contributing to national development through literature.
