It was a fitting celebration of the contributions to education and literature of an elder statesman and educator par excellence during the formal Presentation of a book , “Tales and Voices , Anthology in Honour of Basorun Seinde Arogbofa,” under the auspices of the Association of Nigerian Authors ,ANA, Ondo State Branch on Wednesday , September 4 ,2024 at the Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA.
At the event which brought together eminent leaders of the traditional and political and academic institutions and other walks of life , the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who opened the floodgates of outpouring of tributes , extolled the virtues of the former Secretary of the Pan Yoruba Group, Afenifere , describing Basorun Arogbofa who is also the founder of the Ondo State Chapter of ANA as a "pillar of literary excellence" whose works and contributions have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s literary landscape.
The Governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olaiya Adelami, said the anthology, a collection of essays, poems, and reflections on the life and impact of Arogbofa, is a testament to his far-reaching influence, not only in the field of writing but also in national development.
Aiyedatiwa noted that Basorun Arogbofa’s commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering creativity has continued to inspire generations of writers. He said Arogbofa is not only a beacon of excellence for Ondo State but for the entire nation. “His writings have consistently projected values of integrity, knowledge, and cultural heritage that resonate with the ethos of our people,” he said.
The Governor commended the Ondo State Branch of the Association of Nigerian Authors for organizing the event, calling it a fitting tribute to a man whose life has been devoted to the advancement of literature and education in Nigeria. He reiterated the State Government's support for literary activities, promising to continue creating an enabling environment for writers and intellectuals to thrive. The Governor highlighted the importance of celebrating national Icons like Arogbofa during their lifetime, noting that their contributions to society should be recognized and immortalized for future generations. He also encouraged young writers to draw inspiration from the legacy of Basorun Arogbofa and other literary giants who have paved the way for the new generation of Nigerian authors.
The anthology was reviewed by a prominent academic, Professor Busuyi Mekusi who underscored the importance of Arogbofa’s contributions to the Nigerian literary canon. He described the Icon as kind-hearted, meek, selfless, inspiring, and supportive person, highlighting that the pieces in the anthology describe the personality of the octogenarian. He recommended the 229-page book across board for its power to stir emotions, ignite inspiration, and drive individuals to act.
The Vice Chancellor, FUTA Professor Adenike Oladiji, who was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, Professor Taiwo Amos,commended the literary Icon for his immense contributions to Nigerian literature and education. She described Arogbofa as a beacon of knowledge whose works have shaped intellectual discourse in the country. Oladiji emphasized the importance of celebrating individuals like Arogbofa, whose lifelong dedication to writing and mentorship has inspired countless young minds. She praised the anthology as a fitting tribute and encouraged students and academics alike to draw inspiration from Arogbofa's life. The Vice Chancellor , who described Basorun Arogbofa as a friend of the institution, reiterated the University's commitment to fostering a culture of literary excellence and creativity among its students.
As a way of encouraging literature and the book sector , the Chairman, ANA Ondo State, Mr. Sunday Afolayan, called for sponsorship and support to take the literary campaign to the grassroots and enjoined parents to encourage and support their children and wards to imbibe the writing and reading culture.
Earlier, the Chairman, of the Local Organizing Committee, Professor Bayo Aborisade praised Basorun Arogbofa for his exceptional contributions to literature and education in Nigeria. He noted that organizing the event was a privilege, as it provided an opportunity to celebrate a man whose works have had a lasting impact on the literary community. The Chairman highlighted Arogbofa's role in mentoring young writers and promoting intellectual growth, describing him as a source of inspiration for both seasoned and aspiring authors.
In his response, Basorun Arogbofa expressed deep appreciation for the honour, thanking the Association of Nigerian Authors and the Ondo State Government for their unwavering support. The Elder Statesman called on Government to ensure that literary works by local authors are patronized and read whilst encouraging writers not to relent but be optimistic that the nation would overcome its numerous challenges and prosper again.
Speaking on the founding of ANA in Ondo State Basorun Arogbofa disclosed that the Association was founded by inspiration from veteran writers like Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka and William Shakespeare who died one hundred years ago but still receives accolades for his written pieces. He, therefore, reaffirmed his commitment to continuously mentoring young writers and promoting the development of literature in Nigeria.
Among dignitaries at the occasion were the Chairman, Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, the Chief Launcher, Adeniyi Adegbomire who was represented by a Senior Legislative Aide, Akinloye Bolarinde, Afenifere Leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the Father of the Day, represented by Elder Statesman, Chief Femi Aluko, representatives of Commissioner of Education, Ondo State and Olubaka of Oka Kingdom.agawo