ANA unveils theme for 44th International Convention and Conference
By Adeola Ogunrinde –
The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has announced the theme for its 44th International Convention and Conference, scheduled to hold from Thursday, October 30 to Sunday, November 2, 2025, at the Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, Abuja. Themed “The Nigerian Writer and the Urgencies of the Nation-State,” the convention will provide a platform for Nigerian and African writers to interrogate pressing national challenges and highlight the role of literature in shaping national consciousness.
The event will be chaired by Senator Shehu Sani, CON, a writer, public intellectual, and human rights advocate. The Chief Host is Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, President of ANA, while the keynote address will be delivered by renowned scholar Udenta O. Udenta.
Other distinguished panelists include Dr. Tunde Olusunle (FANA), celebrated journalist and author; Mr. Owei Lakemfa, labour leader and columnist; and Ifeoma Chiwumba, mni. Their contributions are expected to enrich discussions on literature and national development.
The four-day gathering will feature panel discussions, literary workshops, plenary sessions, performances, exhibitions, award presentations, and a grand dinner. Writers, scholars, critics, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond are expected to converge at the Writers’ Village for the landmark event.
For over four decades, ANA’s annual convention has served as the largest convergence of writers, publishers, scholars, and policymakers in Nigeria’s literary space. It has provided fertile ground for cross-generational engagement, literary growth, and policy advocacy in the creative industry.
Speaking on the significance of the theme, ANA President Dr. Usman Akanbi said writers have always been at the forefront of interrogating the nation’s conscience. He noted that the 44th convention will offer authors an opportunity to propose pragmatic interventions on governance, democracy, identity, and nation-building.
He stressed that the gathering will reinforce ANA’s mission of fostering literary excellence while addressing urgent national issues. According to him, literature remains a vital tool for reawakening societal values and inspiring collective progress.
The Association has extended an open invitation to the public, lovers of literature, students, academics, and policymakers to actively participate. Attendees will enjoy thought-provoking dialogue, literary celebration, performances, and networking opportunities.
