ANA CONGRATULATES COL. OLADELE BABAJAMU AT 67 BY ANA MEDIA TEAM

The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has congratulated former Chairman of ANA Kwara State Chapter and former National Publicity Secretary (PRO North) of the association, Colonel Oladele Babajamu (Rtd), FANA, on the occasion of his 67th birthday. 

The congratulatory message was contained in a statement jointly signed by ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and ANA General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, PhD who described the celebrant as a distinguished patriot, accomplished author, and one of the most respected elder statesmen in Nigeria's literary community.

The association noted that Colonel Babajamu's remarkable life journey reflects an uncommon blend of military excellence, intellectual depth, and literary accomplishment. 

According to the statement, his contributions to the growth of Nigerian literature, particularly through his writings in poetry, prose, drama, and Yoruba-language literature, have earned him admiration across generations of writers and scholars. ANA described him as a creative force whose works continue to inspire patriotism, cultural consciousness, and moral values.

The statement further highlighted Colonel Babajamu's distinguished military career, which began with his enlistment into the Nigerian Army as a member of the 29th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1981. 

Throughout his years of service, he distinguished himself through professionalism, leadership, and dedication to national service, participating in international peacekeeping operations and occupying strategic command and administrative positions before his meritorious retirement in 2011. ANA commended his enduring commitment to nation-building both within and outside military service.

Reflecting on his literary achievements, the association observed that Colonel Babajamu has remained one of the most prolific voices in contemporary Nigerian literature, with over one hundred publications in military, academic, national, and international outlets. 

His extensive body of work, which includes more than thirty published books, covers diverse subjects ranging from military studies and security to culture, poetry, fiction, and social commentary. ANA noted that his writings have enriched Nigeria's literary heritage and contributed significantly to intellectual discourse in the country.

The association also celebrated the numerous honours and recognitions bestowed on the veteran author and soldier. 

Among these are the ECOMOG Medal, Distinguished Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award, Fellowship of the Defence College, several ANA Merit Awards, and the prestigious Fellowship of the Association of Nigerian Authors (FANA), conferred on him in 2023. ANA described these honours as fitting tributes to a lifetime of exceptional service, sacrifice, and excellence.

While congratulating Colonel Babajamu on attaining the age of 67, 

ANA prayed for continued good health, strength, and divine guidance for the elder statesman. The association expressed appreciation for his unwavering support for writers, mentorship of younger authors, and invaluable contributions to the advancement of literature in Nigeria. 

ANA wished him many more years of productive service to humanity and the continued celebration of his enduring legacy in both the literary and military spheres.

© ANA Media Team