FEDERAL UNIVERSITY LOKOJA TO HONOUR EMERITUS PROFESSOR OLU OBAFEMI AT 4TH ANNUAL COLLOQUIUM_ BY ANA MEDIA TEAM

The Federal University Lokoja, through its Department of English and Literary Studies, is set to honour Emeritus Professor Olu Obafemi, distinguished scholar, playwright, poet and literary critic, at its 4th Annual Colloquium scheduled for Wednesday, November 11, 2026.

The colloquium, which will take place at the Multipurpose Hall, Felele Campus, Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State, at 12 noon, will focus on the theme, “Creativity as Criticism in Olu Obafemi’s Works.” The event is expected to provide an academic platform for examining the critical dimensions of Obafemi’s literary contributions and their significance to Nigerian literature and intellectual discourse.

Obafemi, a former professor of English and an eminent figure in Nigerian literary scholarship, has made significant contributions to creative writing, literary criticism, theatre and the development of literary studies in Nigeria. His body of work reflects a sustained engagement with social realities, political questions, cultural values and the role of literature in interrogating society.

As a Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) and the Nigerian Academy of Letters, Obafemi occupies an important place in Nigeria’s literary and intellectual community. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Nigerian Authors, where his experience and contributions to the literary profession form part of his enduring service to the development of Nigerian writing and criticism.

The choice of “Creativity as Criticism in Olu Obafemi’s Works” as the colloquium’s theme highlights the relationship between artistic expression and critical inquiry in his writings. It invites scholars, students and literary enthusiasts to explore how creative works can interrogate prevailing social structures, challenge established assumptions and offer alternative perspectives on human experience. The theme also underscores the capacity of literature to function not merely as an artistic exercise but as a vehicle for intellectual engagement and social reflection.

The event is expected to celebrate Obafemi’s scholarly achievements while encouraging further academic engagement with his literary legacy. By dedicating its annual colloquium to his works, the Department of English and Literary Studies recognises the value of sustained literary scholarship and the importance of examining the contributions of distinguished Nigerian writers to the evolution of critical thought and creative expression.

The colloquium is being organised under the auspices of the Department of English and Literary Studies, Federal University Lokoja. Dr Peter Okpeh, Head of Department, is listed among the principal contacts for the event, alongside Dr Abba Abba, Chairman of the Colloquium Committee, and Dr Grace Olarewaju, Secretary of the committee.

The 4th Annual Colloquium promises to be an important occasion for celebrating Emeritus Professor Olu Obafemi’s contributions to literature, scholarship and the Nigerian literary community, while deepening discussions on the critical possibilities of creative writing. It is also an opportunity to recognise a distinguished scholar whose work continues to invite reflection on the relationship between literature, society and the human condition.

©ANA MEDIA TEAM