The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has rejected the reported introduction by the Federal Government of a ₦2,000-per-page book assessment fee and a proposed ranking framework for evaluating books in Nigeria, describing the move as a threat to intellectual freedom, literary creativity and educational development.
In a statement issued by its media team, the association said the proposed policy, if implemented, would place a heavy financial burden on authors, researchers, academics, publishers and educational content creators at a time of economic hardship.
ANA, the umbrella body for creative writers in Nigeria, expressed concern over reports that authors and publishers could be required to pay substantial sums to have books assessed for educational and public use.
According to the association, the policy would undermine efforts to promote literacy, scholarship and the free exchange of ideas, which it described as essential for national development.
Founded in 1981 by renowned literary figures led by Chinua Achebe, ANA said it has consistently promoted literary excellence, freedom of expression and the growth of Nigeria’s creative and intellectual industries for more than four decades.
The association argued that the proposed fee structure departs from the principles of inclusion and accessibility, noting that a 300-page book would attract an assessment fee of ₦600,000.
It described the cost as excessive and unjustifiable, warning that it would discourage emerging authors, independent scholars, small publishing houses and educational content developers from contributing to knowledge production.
ANA further described the proposal as a form of economic censorship capable of suppressing diverse voices and limiting participation in literary and scholarly activities.
It maintained that freedom of expression could be undermined through financial barriers that discourage publication, warning that the policy could reverse gains made in expanding opportunities for young writers, indigenous language authors, women writers, researchers and independent publishers.
The association also expressed concern about the implications of the policy for intellectual property rights and the integrity of the assessment process.
It said authors deserved clear assurances regarding the legal basis for the assessments, the qualifications of assessors, the evaluation criteria and measures to protect submitted manuscripts.
ANA added that books are not merely commercial products but vital tools for education, cultural preservation, historical documentation and social development.
The association argued that policies that increase the cost of producing educational and literary materials are counterproductive at a time when Nigeria is seeking to improve literacy, strengthen educational outcomes and promote innovation.
Consequently, ANA called for the immediate suspension and comprehensive review of the reported assessment fee and ranking framework.
It also urged the Federal Government to publicly disclose the legal basis, implementation process and financial structure of the proposed policy, while ensuring that no administrative measure infringes on Nigerians’ constitutional rights to freedom of thought, freedom of expression and access to knowledge.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to defending literary freedom and promoting creative excellence, insisting that intellectual freedom remains non-negotiable.
