The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) is set to host a special edition of its renowned ANA Mbari Series on June 27, 2026, bringing together writers, scholars, academics, and cultural enthusiasts to discuss the future of Northern literature in Nigeria while celebrating the 60th birthday of Professor Isiaka Aliagan, FANA.
The event, which will take place at the ANA National Secretariat, Mamman Vatsa Writers’ Village, Mpape Road, Abuja, is themed “Northern Literature: Visibility, Challenges, and Prospects.” It will also serve as a tribute to Professor Aliagan, a respected scholar, literary figure, and mentor whose contributions have impacted generations of writers and intellectuals.
At the centre of the discussion will be an important question: How visible is Northern literature within Nigeria’s literary landscape?
Northern Nigeria is home to rich oral traditions, diverse languages, and a growing number of talented writers. Yet many observers believe that literary works from the region often receive less attention than they deserve in national and international literary conversations. The ANA Mbari Series seeks to address this concern by creating a platform for meaningful dialogue on the opportunities and challenges facing writers from the North.
Participants will examine issues such as publishing opportunities, readership development, literary infrastructure, mentorship, cultural diversity, and the representation of Northern voices in contemporary literature. The conversation is expected to generate ideas on how writers from the region can gain greater recognition and contribute more visibly to Nigeria’s evolving literary culture.
The event will also celebrate the life and achievements of Professor Isiaka Aliagan, whose work in scholarship, communication studies, literature, and public discourse has earned him admiration across academic and literary communities. ANA described the celebration as a recognition of his immense contributions to scholarship, cultural engagement, and literary development.
Over the years, Professor Aliagan has distinguished himself as a scholar, critic, mentor, and advocate for intellectual growth. His commitment to nurturing younger generations of writers and researchers has left a lasting impact on many within and beyond the literary community.
Adding depth and prestige to the occasion is an impressive line-up of some of Nigeria’s foremost literary and intellectual figures. Renowned scholar and public intellectual Udenta O. Udenta will serve as the host of the event, while acclaimed author and academic Professor Kyuka Lilymjok will chair the occasion.
The panel discussion on Northern literature will be moderated by former ANA President, Denja Abdullahi, with writer and literary advocate Kabura Zakama serving as co-moderator. Together, they will steer conversations around the challenges, opportunities, and future prospects of literary production in Northern Nigeria.
The discussion will feature contributions from distinguished writers, scholars, and cultural commentators, including Zaynab Ango, Chukwudi Eze, Abdullahi Ismaila Ahmad, Ibrahim Sheme, and Khalid Imam. Their diverse experiences and perspectives are expected to enrich the dialogue and provide fresh insights into the evolving literary landscape of the region.
The President of the Association of Nigerian Authors, Usman Oladipo Akanbi, will serve as the Chief Host, underscoring the association’s commitment to fostering literary development and meaningful national conversations through platforms such as the Mbari Series.
Beyond celebrating an accomplished scholar, the gathering aims to explore practical ways of strengthening literary practice across Northern Nigeria. Stakeholders are expected to discuss strategies for building stronger literary institutions, encouraging reading culture, supporting emerging writers, expanding mentorship opportunities, and improving access to publishing platforms.
Attention will also be given to the role of digital media, literary festivals, journals, and creative communities in promoting Northern voices and connecting writers to wider audiences both within and outside Nigeria.
Since its inception, the ANA Mbari Series has become one of Nigeria’s most respected literary forums, providing a platform for thoughtful discussions on literature, culture, and national development. Named after the historic Mbari cultural tradition, the series continues to foster intellectual engagement among writers, artists, scholars, and cultural stakeholders.
As anticipation builds for the June 2026 edition, many see the event as more than a celebration of a distinguished scholar. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the place of Northern literature in Nigeria’s cultural landscape and to chart new paths for greater visibility, inclusiveness, and literary excellence.
For lovers of literature, students, academics, and cultural advocates, the gathering promises to be an enriching conversation on the past, present, and future of Northern literary expression, while honouring a scholar whose life’s work continues to inspire excellence in scholarship, literature, and public discourse.