The President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, on Thursday, 15 January 2026, attended the presentation of two new books authored by Senator Shehu Sani, CFR, at the Mamman Vatsa Writers Village, Mpape, Abuja.
The books, titled The Village and the Vigilante and The Perilous Path to Europe: The Sahara Odyssey, were presented under the auspices of the Orpheus Foundation, led by Malam Denja Abdullahi, FANA, former President of ANA.
The well-attended event attracted writers, scholars, diplomats, policymakers, and other distinguished guests, who gathered to honour Senator Shehu Sani, a renowned public intellectual, writer, and long-time supporter of the Association of Nigerian Authors.
Of particular note was the presence of several members of the diplomatic community, lending international significance to the occasion.
The keynote address was delivered by Professor Emeka Aniagolu, who spoke extensively on the contemporary challenge of emigration from Nigeria.
His presentation was further examined by a panel of discussants comprising Dr. Kabura Zakama, FANA; Madam Lois Adams; Esther Temitayo Adelana; and Dele Kogbe, all of whom offered diverse perspectives on the social and literary issues raised by the books.
A major highlight of the programme was the stage adaptation of The Village and the Vigilante.
The dramatic performance was widely applauded for its relevance and artistic execution, with participants calling for the production to be taken on tour across other northern states.
The book review, delivered by Madam Salamatu Sule, was equally commended for its depth and critical insight.
The event also provided an opportunity for meaningful literary and cultural exchange. Dr. Akanbi interacted with several guests who expressed admiration for the Mamman Vatsa Writers Village as a vital hub for literary creativity and engagement in Nigeria.
He also held discussions with members of the diplomatic corps, including the Ambassador of Colombia to Nigeria and Madam Gladys M. V. Feddy Akyea (Ph.D), Deputy Head of Mission, Ghana High Commission, Abuja.
In his remarks, Senator Shehu Sani explained that the books were inspired by pressing national concerns, particularly the issues of insecurity, banditry, and the growing sense of hopelessness among Nigerian youth, which continues to drive irregular migration.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Professor Udenta O. Udenta, who emphasised the enduring role of literature in interrogating social realities and shaping national discourse.
Dr. Akanbi described the book presentation as a significant literary event that reinforces the importance of creative writing as a tool for social reflection, advocacy, and transformation in Nigeria.
