Revival of Mbari – A testament to the enduring legacy of Nigerian cultural iconoclasm
By Usman Oladipo Akanbi
IN the verdant city of Ibadan, Nigeria, a most singular cultural institution was founded in 1961, bearing the name Mbari, an Igbo term denoting ‘creation’. Conceived by the visionary triumvirate of Ulli Beier, Wole Soyinka, and Chinua Achebe, Mbari served as a veritable crucible for nascent Nigerian artists, writers, and musicians, providing a platform for the showcasing of their works and the fostering of creativity. Decades subsequent, the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has undertaken the noble endeavour of reviving the spirit of Mbari, adapting its concept to suit the exigencies of contemporary Nigerian writers.
Presently, Mbari has evolved into a quarterly discussion forum, convened at the esteemed Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village in Mpape, Abuja. This intellectual salon provides a most convivial space for Nigerian writers to converge, exchange ideas, and promote their literary endeavours, thereby aligning itself with the original Mbari’s mission of fostering creativity and innovation.
ANA’s Mbari Series, ‘Mbari Through the Eyes of the Founding Fathers,’ was showcased to great acclaim on June 28, 2025 at the Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village. The discourse was a resounding success, with thought-provoking discussions and insightful reflections. Under the Association of Nigerian Authors, the re-enacted Mbari embodies a steadfast commitment to honouring its legacy while advancing Nigerian literature.
In a display of munificence, Senator Shehu Sani has seen fit to pledge an annual donation of $1,000 towards the organization of a virtual art exhibition at the Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village. This most welcome initiative will serve to complement the creative writing endeavours, thereby aligning itself with the vision of the earlier Mbari Club, which fostered collaborations between Nigerian and international artists. The virtual exhibition will provide a most excellent platform for artists to showcase their works, further enriching the literary ecosystem.
ANA Mbari Series in session… in Abuja
The revival of Mbari’s spirit is a most significant development in the promotion of Nigerian art, literature, and music, both locally and internationally. By providing a platform for emerging and established writers to share their works, Mbari is cultivating public intellectuals who employ creative writing as a tool for social engagement and critical thinking. As Mbari continues to evolve, it is poised to make a most lasting impact on the literary landscape of Nigeria and beyond.
With its quarterly discussion forum and upcoming virtual art exhibitions, Mbari is set to become a leading literary platform in Nigeria. By fostering a community of writers who drive literary innovation and social engagement, Mbari is empowering public intellectuals who can engage with social issues and promote critical thinking and reflection. As ANA continues to nurture this initiative, it is clear that the spirit of Mbari will continue to inspire generations of Nigerian writers and artists.
* Dr. Akanbi is the President of Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA)
