The Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) has congratulated renowned Nigerian playwright, poet and scholar, Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan, on the occasion of his 80th birthday, celebrating his outstanding contributions to African literature and theatre.
In a congratulatory message issued on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, and jointly signed by PAWA President, Professor Bill Ndi, and Secretary General, Dr. Wale Okediran, the continental body paid glowing tribute to Osofisan’s enduring legacy as one of Africa’s most influential literary figures.
PAWA described Osofisan as a writer whose works have profoundly shaped African theatre through their bold critique of societal challenges and innovative use of African traditional performance forms blended with modern dramatic techniques.
Born on June 16, 1946, Babafemi Adeyemi Osofisan has distinguished himself over several decades as a playwright, poet, novelist and teacher. His dramatic works frequently explore the struggle between good and evil, while addressing social injustice, oppression and moral decadence. He is also known for writing poetry under the pseudonym, Okinba Launko.
The association noted that Osofisan’s career has earned him widespread national and international recognition. Among his numerous honours are the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) in the Humanities, several awards from the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), and the prestigious Thalia Prize from the International Association of Theatre Critics, making him the first African to receive the award.
He is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Letters, a recognition of his immense contributions to literature, theatre and scholarship.
According to PAWA, Osofisan has, through his plays, novels, poetry and years of teaching, shaped modern Nigerian theatre and inspired generations of writers, scholars and performers across Africa and beyond.
The association further praised his ability to merge traditional African storytelling with contemporary dramatic forms, noting that his works continue to resonate globally while remaining deeply rooted in African cultural traditions.
“His works continue to be performed internationally and studied academically, cementing his legacy as a visionary dramatist who transformed postcolonial African theatre,” the statement said.
As part of the celebration of his milestone birthday, PAWA also announced the conferment of its prestigious Patron of the Arts Award on Osofisan in recognition of his immense contributions to African literature and his service to the organisation.
The association recalled that Osofisan previously served as PAWA Vice President for West Africa before later becoming President of the continental literary body.
PAWA said the investiture ceremony for the award would be held at a later date and venue to be announced.
The association described Osofisan’s life and work as a testament to the enduring power of African storytelling and the capacity of literature and theatre to address societal challenges while preserving historical memory.
