The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) Ekiti State Chapter has honoured His Excellency, Governor Kayode Fayemi as Grand Patron of the association following the exploits of the administration on Knowledge Economy (one of the pillars of his administration).
According to the State Chairman of ANA, Akogun Tai Oguntayo, the investiture reflects one of the agenda of his administration in Ekiti State.
“The Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Dr. Kayode Fayemi and his wife, Her Excellency, Erelu Bisi Fayemi are renowned and prolific authors in their own right and that being the case; it means they are automatically members of this association. It is in this regard we are privileged to bestow him the highest title of the association in the state (Grand Patron). Two years ago, we had our patron in person of Senator Ayo Arise.
“The cardinal point of the governor’s administration is Knowledge Economy and we are glad that His Excellency is doing well in breeding potentials in the state. To this effect, education elites in Ekiti State have bought into our vision and we will continue to expand the network by grooming more potential in the state.
“We will also continue to improve the reading culture of the people by investing in the youths of the state through the education sector. We want to expand the knowledge base of the state and produce writers who will become veterans in their own right,” he said.
“While delivering his lecture tagged; “ANA Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow”, former president of ANA and a renowned Poet, Mr. Odia Ofeimun said that Ekiti State holds a pivotal role in Nigeria’s education sector adding that the governor is doing well in improving education at all levels in the state.
“We must charge ourselves with the responsibility of breeding leaders who will champion good causes for the growth and development of the country. Ekiti state holds a special place in the academic history of this country. Known for producing world class professors and elites, I must commend the governor for restoring the values of the state in academic excellence by investing immensely in the education sector.
Speaking while receiving the plaque of honour (Grand Patron) on behalf of the governor, Erelu Bisi Fayemi said that writers hold a very key role in nation building.
“Writers have many roles and obligations, key of which include: To create, to be heard, to bear witness, to teach, to learn and to speak up. Whether we write novels, poetry, plays, children’s books, essays, however we choose to express ourselves, we are doing a combination of all the obligations.
The reward of the writer is not in heaven. Our reward is right here on earth, in every line, page and volume we write, living testimonies for generations to come.
“This administration, pushing a strong crusade for Knowledge Economy, will continue to build the capacity of our youth teaching them the reading culture. His Excellency Governor Fayemi prides in human capital development and he is never relenting in impacting knowledge as well.
“This administration appreciates this gesture by ANA and will continue to render its support to the association,” she said.
Other dignitaries present at the event include; Mallam Denja Abdullahi, ANA President; Commissiojner for Information, Tourism and Value Orientation, Mr. Olumiyiwa Olumilua; former national President Dr. Wale Okediran among others.
