ANA President Hails Dr Wale Okediran’s Re-Election As PAWA Secretary-General
The President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Dr Usman Oladipo Akanbi, has congratulated Dr Wale Okediran on his re-election as Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers’ Association (PAWA), calling it a well-earned honour for his tireless work in the African literary space.
In a statement signed by ANA’s General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD, the Association described Dr Okediran’s unanimous return by the PAWA General Assembly as a vote of confidence in his sterling leadership, dedication, and achievements over the years.
Dr Okediran, who first assumed the role in an acting capacity in 2020 following the passing of PAWA’s founding Secretary-General, Prof. Atukwei Okai, secured his first full-term mandate in 2022.
His recent re-election at the just-concluded General Assembly cements his place as a key figure in Africa’s literary development.
The new PAWA leadership, elected in a transparent process chaired by Professor Cherno Omar Barry of The Gambia, features representatives from across the continent and the Diaspora including Egypt, Kenya, Mozambique, Gabon, and beyond.
Dr Akanbi expressed optimism that Dr Okediran’s renewed mandate would further elevate not only PAWA’s standing but also the visibility of Nigerian literature on the global stage.
He described Dr Okediran as a beacon of inspiration to young writers and a symbol of Nigeria’s cultural leadership in Africa.
A medical doctor by training, former lawmaker, and author of 14 novels including Tenants of the House, which clinched the Wole Soyinka Prize for African Literature Dr Okediran is also the founder of the renowned Ebedi International Writers’ Residency.
ANA joined the global literary community in wishing him success, divine wisdom, and good health in his continued service to African letters.
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