PAWA, ANA pay tribute to book industry enthusiasts at World Book, Copyright Day 2024

By Editor

THE National President, Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) and Secretary General of Pan-African Writers Association, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi and Dr. Wale Okediran respectively have paid glowing tribute to book industry enthusiasts, all book lovers and avid readers around the globe and wished them a happy World Book and Copyright Day 2024.

Speaking from the National Secretariat at the Mamman Vatsa writers’ Village, Mpape, Abuja, Dr. Akanbi, stated that books are more than just words on pages, adding, “they are gateways to imagination, knowledge, and personal growth. They have the ability to ignite curiosity, foster empathy, and connect people from diverse backgrounds. They hold the power to shape our thoughts, broaden our perspectives, and empower us to create positive change in the world. He further expressed admiration for the power of literature to educate, enlighten, and inspire people of all ages.”

On his part, Dr. Okediran also said, “April 23, the World Book and Copyright Day is an occasion to pay a worldwide tribute to books, authors and all professionals in the book industry and to encourage people to discover the pleasure of reading. This exercise leads to the renewed respect for those who have made irreplaceable contributions to social and cultural progress. The theme for World Book Day 2024 is ‘Read Your Way’. The focus is geared towards children who are believed to enjoy reading when their choices are championed.”

Drawing from this year’s theme ‘Read Your Way, quoting Dr. Akanbi in a statement signed by ANA PRO North, it said, “The president emphasizes that books are not just a source of entertainment but also serve as a gateway to knowledge, empathy, and personal growth. He acknowledges the role of authors, poets, and storytellers in shaping our thoughts and perspectives through their words.

ANA President, Dr. Usman Akanbi

“President Akanbi urges everyone to celebrate the joy and value of books and reading culture. He uses this medium to encourage individuals to take a moment to disconnect from the distractions of the world and immerse themselves in the pages of a book, allowing their imaginations to soar and their minds to expand.

“Happy World Book and Copyright Day to all the bookworms and literary enthusiasts! May your love for books continue to inspire and illuminate your path!”

According to Okediran, “One of the ways of achieving making children read books is to make reading fun, not only for children but readers of all age groups. The Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), the umbrella body for all writers organizations in Africa has been in existence for the past 30 years. During this period of time, PAWA has contributed a lot to the promotion of literature within and outside the continent.

“One of PAWA’s landmark contributions is its collaboration with her partners in the book industry to establish the UN SDG Book Club African Chapter which has successfully shown books written by African authors for African children on the SDG themes. Apart from internationalising the works of African authors, the African Book Club initiative has also gone a long way to also promote African publishers, booksellers and clubs as well as the reading culture on the African continent.”

Okediran concluded by drawing attention to work of PAWA in uniting African through its vibrant cultures, “In celebrating the World Book and Copyright Day, PAWA is committed to the continuation of its important role of using literature in the promotion of culture and unity in Africa.”