By Joy Salami
The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Kogi State Chapter, has successfully conducted its latest election, ushering in a new executive council to steer the affairs of the literary body.
The election, which took place in Lokoja, the state capital, brought together writers, poets, and literary enthusiasts from across the state.
In a peaceful and well-organised exercise, Mr. Yusuf Itopa, emerged as the newly elected Chairman of the association. His victory comes with high expectations from members who believe in his capacity to reposition ANA Kogi and provide a more vibrant platform for writers in the state.
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Speaking shortly after his swearing-in, Mr. Itopa expressed gratitude to members for the trust reposed in him and his team. He promised to run an inclusive administration focused on reviving literary activities across the state, promoting young and upcoming writers, and fostering collaboration with educational institutions and cultural agencies.
“This is a call to service,” Mr. Itopa said. “Our goal is to build a more active literary community in Kogi State and create platforms for our writers to grow, express themselves, and contribute meaningfully to society.”
The new Chairman pledged to lead with integrity and creativity, noting that ANA is an intellectual and visionary association that requires innovative leadership.
In his words, “ANA is an intellectual association. Whatever creativity we need to deploy to move ANA forward, we are going to do it. I will not disappoint the people who supported me.”
Mr. Itopa also outlined his vision for ANA under his leadership, stressing the importance of unity, accountability, and collaboration.
Stating that his vision for ANA is to have a good association. One that is strong, accountable to the people. One whose principle is integrity. That believes a tree can never make a forest. “That’s why I’m calling on all members both old and new to come back and not leave this leadership alone with just a few elected members. I’m going to try as much as possible to bring everybody back”.
He emphasised his belief in collective leadership and encouraged members to contribute their ideas and energy to help reposition ANA in the state.
We are authors. We are full of ideas. Let us join hands together, bring your ideas, and move forward, he added.
Mr. Itopa also expressed his desire to forge a partnership with the state government for the benefit of the literary community.
“No association can thrive without synergy with the government. I want to promise that I will creatively find a way to gain the attention of the government of the day, under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. He’s a people-friendly leader and we know what he has done for other associations. Ours will not be an exception.”
He further noted that the association would be instrumental in supporting budding writers, building platforms for literary growth, and helping preserve cultural identity through writing.
The event also featured goodwill messages from dignitaries, including the Permanent Secretary of the Kogi State Ministry of Information, Mr. Ebenezer Adurodija, who congratulated Mr. Itopa on his emergence as chairman.
But I must quickly caution him, Adurodija said. “Because he’s entering into a big shoe. It’s one thing to aspire, and another thing to deliver. I do know he has the capacity, and I do pray he will bring tenacity to his new office.”
The Permanent Secretary pledged the ministry’s support while challenging the new leadership to revive the dwindling reading culture in the state.
He used the medium to urge people to take reading as a culture. While charging the new elected chairman to use ANA to revive the reading culture in Kogi.
According to him, Literary works are dying. “Today, many people write more for financial gain than for posterity. But literature should be about passing your thoughts for generations to read and learn from” he further emphasised.
He concluded by urging Mr. Itopa to see his position as a call to serve and pledged continued support from the ministry.
The election was conducted under the supervision of the national body of ANA, represented by senior officials who ensured transparency and fairness throughout the process. Other elected officials include the Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Publicity Secretary, and other key positions that will support the new leadership in achieving its objectives.
Mr. Itopa emerged victorious with 12 votes, defeating his opponent who polled 8 votes. His emergence was met with cheers and high expectations as members looked forward to a new era of literary revival and purposeful leadership.
Members of the association commended the outgoing executive council for their service and pledged their support for the new leadership. Many expressed optimism that the new team, led by Mr. Itopa, would bring fresh energy and innovation into the association’s programs and advocacy.
With a fresh mandate and renewed enthusiasm, the new ANA executive, led by Mr. YJ Itopa, is expected to usher in a new chapter of literary development, advocacy, and creativity in the state.
