Writers Condemn Renaming of Minna International Airport

WRITERS CONDEMN RENAMING OF MINNA  INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 

The Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW) has expressed strong disapproval of the recent renaming of the Minna International Airport. 

On March 11, 2024, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced the airport's name change from Abubakar Imam Kagara International Airport to Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport.

The SYNW, in a statement issued by its President, Wole Adedoyin, condemned the decision. Adedoyin highlighted the prior naming in June 2023 as a recognition of "what the Late Abubakar Imam had done for the nation." He emphasized the sense of belonging and international recognition the late Abubakar Imam's name bestowed upon the state.

Adedoyin further criticized the Governor's motives, suggesting the renaming stemmed from "political reasons" rather than merit. The SYNW called upon Governor Bago to honor the legacy of Abubakar Imam appropriately.

The press release also addressed the silence of some Niger State writers on the issue. The SYNW suggested these writers were potentially influenced by their connections to the Governor.

Abubakar Imam, a celebrated figure in Nigeria, was honored for his contributions across various fields. The SYNW release described his influence as spanning "literary, political, public and teaching environments" in both northern Nigeria and the nation as a whole.

The Society's stance reflects a wider discontent among Nigerian writers. Many, particularly those within Niger State, have voiced their unhappiness with the Governor's decision.

Writers Urge President Tinubu To Address Nigerians' Plight

 

WRITERS URGE PRESIDENT TINUBU TO ADDRESS NIGERIANS' PLIGHT

 

The Writers for Democratic Change (WfDC), a collective of Nigerian authors committed to social justice, has expressed deep concern for the escalating hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.

 

In the face of a crippled economy, insecurity, and a crumbling infrastructure, the spirit of the Nigerian people is under immense strain. 

 

Basic necessities like food, clean water, and healthcare are increasingly out of reach for a significant portion of the population.

 

The World Bank estimates over 90 million Nigerians, nearly half the population, live below the national poverty line. Inflation continues to soar, eroding the purchasing power of families and pushing more into destitution. Food insecurity is a growing crisis, with millions struggling to consistently put food on the table.

 

The ongoing insurgency in the northeast and criminal activity across the nation threaten the safety and security of Nigerians. Violence displaces communities, disrupts livelihoods, and creates a climate of fear.

 

The Nigerian healthcare system is severely underfunded and overburdened. Access to quality healthcare remains a privilege for the wealthy, leaving millions vulnerable to preventable illnesses and treatable diseases. Public hospitals are often understaffed and lack essential equipment.

 

The quality of education suffers due to inadequate funding, overcrowded classrooms, and poorly paid teachers. This jeopardizes the future of young Nigerians, hindering their ability to contribute meaningfully to the nation's development.

 

Power outages are a daily occurrence, hindering economic productivity.  Roads are in disrepair, making transportation and the flow of goods difficult. Access to clean water and sanitation remains a challenge for many communities.

 

A CALL TO ACTION FOR PRESIDENT TINUBU

 

The Writers for Democratic Change urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize the well-being of his fellow Nigerians. 

 

We call for immediate action on several fronts:

 

·         Implement economic policies that stimulate job creation, boost agricultural production, and reduce inflation.

 

·         Invest in robust security measures to combat insurgency and provide peace and stability across the nation.

 

·         Increase funding for healthcare and education, ensuring quality and accessibility for all Nigerians.

 

·         Prioritize infrastructure development to provide reliable power, improve transportation networks, and facilitate access to clean water and sanitation.

 

Despite the hardship, the Nigerian spirit remains unbroken. The creativity, determination, and resilience of Nigerians are the nation's greatest resources. However, these attributes need to be met with strong and decisive leadership.

 

President Tinubu has a historic opportunity to unite the nation and lead Nigeria towards a brighter future. We, the Writers for Democratic Change, implore him to prioritize the well-being of his people and offer them the hope they deserve.

 

Contact:

 

Wole Adedoyin

Coordinator,

Writers for Democratic Change

 

Email: woleadedoyin@gmail.com

 

±2348072673852

 

IHRAM Launches Art For Rights’ Sake Movement, Unveils African Human Rights Art Contest

 

IHRAM LAUNCHES ART FOR RIGHTS’ SAKE, UNVEILS AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS ART CONTEST

 

The African Chapter of the International Human Rights Art Movement (IHRAM) has announced the initiation of the Art for Rights’ Sake Movement, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at leveraging the power of art to advocate for human rights globally. The movement seeks to unite artists from diverse backgrounds to amplify the voices of those who have been marginalized, oppressed, or silenced.

Wole Adedoyin, the African Director of IHRAM, made the official announcement in Ibadan, highlighting the movement's commitment to fostering positive change through artistic expression. Adedoyin emphasized the pivotal role that art plays in challenging societal norms, sparking dialogue, and promoting understanding.

As a flagship event of the Art for Rights’ Sake Movement, IHRAM is thrilled to introduce the African Human Rights Art Contest. This continent-wide competition invites artists from across Africa to contribute their creative vision in addressing human rights issues. The contest aims to showcase the rich tapestry of artistic talent in Africa while bringing attention to the challenges faced by individuals striving for their fundamental rights.

IHRAM believes that art transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, serving as a powerful medium to communicate the shared values of justice, equality, and dignity. The African Human Rights Art Contest encourages artists to explore various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art, to express their perspectives on human rights in the African context.

Artists participating in the contest will have the opportunity to not only showcase their work on a global stage but also contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding human rights. The winning entries will receive monetary rewards, be featured in IHRAM's international publications, exhibitions, and digital platforms, ensuring that the powerful messages conveyed through art reach a wide and diverse audience.

The Art for Rights’ Sake Movement reflects IHRAM's unwavering commitment to promoting human rights through innovative and inclusive means. By harnessing the creativity of artists worldwide, the movement aims to inspire change, challenge perceptions, and build a global community that actively advocates for the protection of human rights.

For more information on the Art for Rights Sake Movement and the African Human Rights Art Contest, please visit [https://humanrightsartmovement.org/african-secretariat] or contact Wole Adedoyin at [wole@humanrightsartmovement.org].

The International Human Rights Art Movement (IHRAM) is a global organization dedicated to promoting human rights through the transformative power of art. IHRAM collaborates with artists, activists, and organizations worldwide to create a platform for artistic expression that addresses pressing human rights issues.

 

Writers for Human Rights strongly condemns military intervention and wars in Africa

 WRITERS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS STRONGLY CONDEMNS MILITARY INTERVENTION AND WARS IN AFRICA

Writers for Human Rights, a global coalition of writers and literary figures committed to advocating for human rights has issued a powerful condemnation against military intervention and wars on the African continent. 

In a statement by the Director of the organization, Wole Adedoyin said with a collective voice, the organization aims to raise awareness, inspire dialogue, and drive change in the face of these deeply concerning conflicts.

Africa, a region of rich cultural diversity and historical significance, has unfortunately been marred by conflicts and military interventions that result in immeasurable suffering for its people. 

Writers for Human Rights firmly believed that dialogue, diplomacy, and peaceful resolution should always be prioritized over military actions, which often exacerbate human rights violations, displacement, and loss of life.

The coalition emphasized that the impacts of these interventions are far-reaching, affecting not only the immediate regions involved but also global stability and security. 

By condemning military intervention and wars, Writers for Human Rights sends a resounding message that violence should never be the solution, and that the international community must work collaboratively to prevent further bloodshed.

Writers for Human Rights acknowledged the critical role that writers and literary figures play in shedding light on the realities of war and its devastating consequences. 

Through their powerful narratives, these individuals can raise awareness, foster empathy, and galvanize public opinion to demand a shift towards peaceful and diplomatic solutions to conflicts.

In the spirit of solidarity, the coalition called upon governments, international organizations, and world leaders to engage in efforts that prioritize peace, human rights, and the well-being of African communities. 

It urged for investments in education, dialogue, and conflict resolution strategies that can address the root causes of conflicts and help prevent future violence.

As a collective force for positive change, Writers for Human Rights is committed to amplifying the voices of those affected by conflicts, as well as the voices of writers who strive to make a difference through their literary works. 

The coalition's members pledge to continue using their platforms to highlight the urgent need for a world in which military interventions and wars become relics of the past.

Writers for Human Rights invites writers, activists, organizations, and concerned citizens from around the world to join their cause. 

By standing united against military intervention and wars in Africa, the coalition believes that the power of the written word can contribute to a more just, peaceful, and harmonious world.