Renowned Nigerian poet Ayomide Festus added another milestone to his literary career in 2019 when he was invited as a panellist at the inaugural Oshogbo Literary Festival. The festival, now recognised as a major literary event in Nigeria, brings together poets, writers, and literary scholars to explore and celebrate the evolving landscape of African literature.
The event was organised by some of Nigeria’s most prestigious literary and academic institutions, including the University of Ibadan, DIHYA Literary & Development Initiative, Cornell Spring of Life Foundation, African Writers, and PDR Innovation Hub. The festival aimed to redefine the literary narrative of Southern and Western Nigeria, shifting perceptions from a region with literacy challenges to one rich in literary excellence.
Ayomide, known for his deep engagement with themes of grief, absence, and African identity, was invited to speak on a panel themed “Exploring Narratives,” which examined contemporary literature in Nigeria and the role of young African poets in shaping a new era of African poetry. Reflecting on his participation, Ayomide described the experience as both humbling and inspiring.
“Being invited to sit among some of Nigeria’s most respected literary minds was an incredible honour. It was a moment that reaffirmed the importance of our voices as young poets in shaping the African literary canon. Literature has always been a means of redefining narratives, and this festival provided a crucial platform to do just that,” he said.
Ayomide shared the stage with a distinguished lineup of literary figures, including multiple award-winning writer Adewale Adejo Ibrahim, Professor Dul Johnson, renowned publishers and editors Amara Chimeka and Maik Ortserga, and esteemed playwright Isaac Attah Ogezi, among others. Their discussions delved into the prevailing sentiments about literature in Nigeria and the responsibility of writers to challenge and expand societal narratives.
The festival’s invitation letter underscored its broader mission: “to engage the general literatures of Nigeria and Africa, showcasing a positive side of our literary culture that can be harnessed and continually developed over time.” This vision aligned with Ayomide’s literary philosophy, as his poetry consistently seeks to explore the nuances of loss, time, and identity while reflecting the complexities of African existence.
Speaking on the significance of the festival, Ayomide noted, “Literature is one of the most powerful tools for reshaping how we see ourselves and our society. Events like the Oshogbo Literary Festival remind us that storytelling is not just about documenting history but about creating it. Our generation has the duty to ensure African literature is not just preserved but also innovated upon.”
As a panellist, Ayomide contributed valuable insights into the evolution of poetry in Nigeria, particularly the intersection of traditional oral aesthetics with modern poetic forms. His participation further solidified his influence in Nigeria’s literary community, not only as a poet but also as a thought leader in African literature.
Since the festival’s inception, it has grown in stature, attracting a wider audience of literary enthusiasts, scholars, and aspiring writers. Ayomide’s role in its foundational discussions highlights his contributions to shaping contemporary African literary discourse.
Beyond his participation in the festival, Ayomide’s literary career has continued to flourish. His works have been widely published in esteemed journals and anthologies, and his academic achievements have earned him recognition both in Nigeria and internationally. His journey from Ibadan to the global literary stage serves as an inspiration to emerging poets and writers across Africa.
“I hope that platforms like this continue to grow and that young writers see themselves reflected in these spaces. African literature is vast and evolving, and every voice has a place in shaping its future,” he concluded.
With each milestone, he said he wants to continue to solidify his legacy as a leading voice in African poetry, using his words to challenge narratives, heal emotions, and inspire a new generation of writers.
and then