The 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture in Anambra State witnessed commendations from notable figures, including the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in Nigeria, Mr Peter Obi.
Obi praised the young writers for annually celebrating the revered writer, Prof Chinua Achebe, emphasizing the festival’s role in preserving Achebe’s influence and literary legacies.
At the event held in Awka, Anambra State capital, Obi highlighted Achebe’s significant impact on global literature and stressed the importance of sustaining his legacy. He lauded the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (Anambra State Chapter) for their commitment to nurturing literary talents and urged young writers to draw inspiration from Achebe’s works to address contemporary societal issues.
The Chairman of the occasion, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, a traditional ruler, reiterated Achebe’s greatness as a literary icon and encouraged students to prioritize their studies while embracing Igbo language and culture.
Additionally, former Secretary to the State Government and diplomat, Mr. Oseloka Obaze, commended the event organizers for promoting literary arts and emphasized the significance of such gatherings in fostering intellectual growth among the youth.
Mr Izunna Okafor, the Convener of the event and Coordinator of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (Anambra State Chapter), outlined the primary objective of immortalizing Achebe’s memory through the celebration. He applauded the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, for recently immortalizing Achebe, fulfilling a long-standing appeal by the association.
The event also saw contributions from personalities like former MD/CEO Anambra Broadcasting Service, Chief Uche Nworah, and MD/CEO Anambra State Signage and Advertising Agency (ANSAA), Mr. Odili Tony Ujubuoṅu.
They stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage and fostering innovation through imaginative thinking and avid reading among the youth and emerging writers.