Iyorwuese Hagher to headline ANA Abuja July Reading/Writers Dialogue
By Editor
NIGERIA’S former envoy announced as guest author for Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Abuja July Reading/Writers Dialogue, according to Secretary, ANA Abuja, Uthman Qasim on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Mamman Vatsa Writers Village, Mpape, Abuja. Time is 1:00pm. A multifaceted figure in Nigerian academia and beyond, Professor Hagher’s extensive repertoire encompasses roles such as a professor of Theatre and Drama and crusader of theatre for development, playwright, poet, politician, administrator, and stalwart activist for social justice. His illustrious career trajectory spans impactful positions such as senator, cabinet minister, envoy, and pro-chancellor of Afe Babalola University, solidifying his reputation as a multifaceted visionary.
One of Professor Hagher’s seminal contributions is his groundbreaking research on Kwagh-Hir theatre, a cultural gem recognized on UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2019. His profound commitment to issues of leadership permeates his works, with a prominent focus on unearthing authentic leadership models as potential remedies to Africa’s complex socio-political challenges. Through leveraging cultural diplomacy during his tenures as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Mexico and subsequently, High Commissioner to Canada, Professor Hagher has artfully blended values of art, politics, and social justice on the global stage.
A laureate of numerous disciplines, Professor Hagher’s talent transcends the academic sphere. His directorial prowess was prominently displayed in 1975 when his expertise garnered him the prestigious award for directing Wole Soyinka’s acclaimed play The Lion and the Jewel at Bendel Cultural Festival for Iguabazuwa Grammar School, exemplifying a lifetime of dedication to the arts.
Beyond his illustrious career milestones, our guest author continues to champion educational causes. As the President Emeritus of Leadership Institute of Nigeria and founding Pro-Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado–Ekiti, his enduring impact on Nigeria’s academic landscape is unmistakable. Additionally, his active membership in renowned organizations like PEN America testifies to his commitment to literary excellence and thought leadership.
Prof. Iyorwuese Hagher
“As Abuja writers anticipate Professor Hagher’s presence at the ANA Abuja July Reading/Writers Dialogue,” said Quasim, “we eagerly await the opportunity to engage in profound discussions shaped by his diverse body of work. Through his published works that dissect critical themes ranging from leadership crises to societal transformations, we are set to embark on a journey that promises to challenge conventional perspectives and inspire change. Professor Hagher’s appearance will rejuvenate an engaging discourse around politics, leadership, literature and national development.”
