The Society of Young Nigerian Writers, led by Wole Adedoyin has joyously commemorated the 102nd and 83rd posthumous birthdays of the late Dr. Adebayo Faleti and Prof. Omolara Ogundipe-Leslie.
Adebayo Mosobalaje Faleti (26 December 1921 – 23 July 2017), a luminary figure, was Africa’s first newscaster, Nigeria’s inaugural film editor, and the pioneering director of stage plays.
A distinguished poet, journalist, and actor, Faleti’s legacy extends to being Nigeria’s first Yoruba presenter on television and radio.
His significant contributions also include serving as a librarian with Western Nigeria Television (WNTV), the continent’s maiden television station, now known as the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).
Omolara Ogundipe-Leslie (27 December 1940 – 18 June 2019), also known as Molara Ogundipe, stands out as a Nigerian poet, critic, editor, feminist, and activist.
Renowned for her work in African feminism, gender studies, and literary theory, Ogundipe-Leslie’s influence reached far and wide.
Her groundbreaking piece “Not Spinning on the Axis of Maleness” in the 1984 anthology Sisterhood Is Global solidified her as a vital authority on African women within the feminist discourse. Notably, she coined the term STIWA, reflecting her commitment to Social Transformation in Africa Including Women.
Despite the absence of physical or virtual celebrations, SYNW members collectively honored the enduring legacies of Dr. Adebayo Faleti and Prof. Omolara Ogundipe-Leslie.
According to the release, “Their pioneering contributions to literature, broadcasting, and feminist thought continue to inspire and shape the literary landscape in Nigeria and beyond.”
Finally, SYNW encouraged a continued exploration of their works, ensuring their impactful stories resonate with generations to come.
