Saturday, April 5, 2025

Atiba Book Club Congratulates New Alaafin, Oba Akeem Owoade I

 **ATIBA BOOK CLUB CONGRATULATES NEW ALAAFIN, OBA AKEEM OWOADE I**



The Atiba Book Club has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Oba Akeem Owoade I on his recent coronation as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, describing the ascension as a historic moment not only for the ancient town of Oyo but also for the preservation of Yoruba culture and traditions.


In a statement released on Friday and signed by the founder of the club, Mr. Wole Adedoyin, the literary body expressed solidarity with the new monarch, commending the process that led to his emergence as peaceful, inclusive, and a true reflection of the will of the people of Oyo.


Wole Adedoyin, while speaking on behalf of the club, noted that the Alaafin stool is not just a royal seat, but a cultural and intellectual symbol deeply rooted in the rich history of the Yoruba people. He expressed optimism that Oba Owoade I’s reign would bring renewed development, cultural revival, and unity to the Oyo Kingdom.


The Atiba Book Club also used the opportunity to applaud the traditional council and kingmakers for upholding the revered customs and age-long protocols associated with the selection of the Alaafin. According to the statement, their role in ensuring a smooth transition cannot be overemphasized.


The club highlighted the relevance of literature and cultural advocacy in royal courts, urging the new Alaafin to continue the legacy of intellectual promotion associated with past monarchs, especially the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who was known for his deep appreciation of history and scholarship.


“We believe that the palace should remain a citadel of learning and culture. Atiba Book Club stands ready to partner with the Alaafin-in-Council in promoting reading culture, Yoruba literature, and intellectual dialogue within and beyond the palace walls,” the statement read.


The club further emphasized that Oba Owoade I’s youthful energy and modern outlook position him uniquely to harmonize tradition with modern governance, which is critical to community advancement in today’s dynamic world.


As a literary group committed to community enlightenment, Atiba Book Club reiterated its dedication to supporting educational and cultural programs that align with the vision of the new Alaafin’s reign, including establishing reading hubs and organizing literary festivals in Oyo.


The statement also extended warm wishes to the royal family, the Oyomesi, and the entire people of Oyo, praying for divine guidance, wisdom, and good health for the newly crowned monarch throughout his reign.

Atiba Book Club Congratulates New Alaafin, Oba Akeem Owoade I

 **ATIBA BOOK CLUB CONGRATULATES NEW ALAAFIN, OBA AKEEM OWOADE I**



The Atiba Book Club has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Oba Akeem Owoade I on his recent coronation as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, describing the ascension as a historic moment not only for the ancient town of Oyo but also for the preservation of Yoruba culture and traditions.


In a statement released on Friday and signed by the founder of the club, Mr. Wole Adedoyin, the literary body expressed solidarity with the new monarch, commending the process that led to his emergence as peaceful, inclusive, and a true reflection of the will of the people of Oyo.


Wole Adedoyin, while speaking on behalf of the club, noted that the Alaafin stool is not just a royal seat, but a cultural and intellectual symbol deeply rooted in the rich history of the Yoruba people. He expressed optimism that Oba Owoade I’s reign would bring renewed development, cultural revival, and unity to the Oyo Kingdom.


The Atiba Book Club also used the opportunity to applaud the traditional council and kingmakers for upholding the revered customs and age-long protocols associated with the selection of the Alaafin. According to the statement, their role in ensuring a smooth transition cannot be overemphasized.


The club highlighted the relevance of literature and cultural advocacy in royal courts, urging the new Alaafin to continue the legacy of intellectual promotion associated with past monarchs, especially the late Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, who was known for his deep appreciation of history and scholarship.


“We believe that the palace should remain a citadel of learning and culture. Atiba Book Club stands ready to partner with the Alaafin-in-Council in promoting reading culture, Yoruba literature, and intellectual dialogue within and beyond the palace walls,” the statement read.


The club further emphasized that Oba Owoade I’s youthful energy and modern outlook position him uniquely to harmonize tradition with modern governance, which is critical to community advancement in today’s dynamic world.


As a literary group committed to community enlightenment, Atiba Book Club reiterated its dedication to supporting educational and cultural programs that align with the vision of the new Alaafin’s reign, including establishing reading hubs and organizing literary festivals in Oyo.


The statement also extended warm wishes to the royal family, the Oyomesi, and the entire people of Oyo, praying for divine guidance, wisdom, and good health for the newly crowned monarch throughout his reign.

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Atiba Book Club Congratulates New Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade

 

ATIBA BOOK CLUB CONGRATULATES NEW ALAAFIN OF OYO, OBA ABIMBOLA AKEEM OWOADE


 

Atiba Book Club, an initiative of Read Across Nigeria, has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade on his ascension to the revered throne as the Alaafin of Oyo. The club, which caters to the literary development of the four Oyo Local Government Areas—Atiba LGA (headquartered at Offa-Meta), Oyo East LGA (Kosobo), Oyo West LGA (Ojongbodu), and Afijio LGA (Jobele)—expressed its joy and optimism for the new monarch’s reign.

This congratulatory message was conveyed in a statement issued by the Founder of Atiba Book Club, Wole Adedoyin, who emphasized the cultural significance of the Alaafin's throne and the unique opportunity it presents to preserve and promote the rich heritage of the Oyo Kingdom. Adedoyin hailed Oba Owoade’s emergence as divinely ordained and expressed hope that his reign would usher in a new era of progress and prosperity for the people of Oyo.

Adedoyin further noted that Oba Owoade’s ascension comes at a crucial time when Oyo Kingdom requires visionary leadership to uphold its historical significance and champion the development of its people. He expressed confidence in the new Alaafin's capacity to foster unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to elevate the kingdom's legacy.

“Atiba Book Club sees Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade as not just a custodian of culture and tradition but also a beacon of hope for the younger generation. His reign offers an opportunity to inspire the youth of Oyo to embrace education, literacy, and cultural preservation,” the statement read.

The club also pledged its support to the Alaafin’s vision for the kingdom, particularly in areas of education and literacy. Adedoyin revealed that Atiba Book Club plans to collaborate with the royal court on initiatives aimed at promoting reading, writing, and the preservation of indigenous languages within the Oyo community.

“We believe that education is the bedrock of societal development, and under the leadership of Oba Owoade, the Oyo Kingdom can become a hub for intellectual growth and cultural renaissance,” Adedoyin stated.

The statement went on to highlight the role of the Alaafin of Oyo as a symbol of unity and strength for the Yoruba people, noting that Oba Owoade’s experience, wisdom, and leadership qualities would serve as a guiding light for the kingdom.

Adedoyin also commended the traditional council and kingmakers for their diligence and foresight in selecting a monarch who embodies the values and aspirations of the Oyo people. He urged all sons and daughters of Oyo to rally around the new Alaafin and support his efforts to promote peace, development, and cultural excellence.

The Atiba Book Club concluded its message by praying for the Alaafin’s reign to be marked by peace, prosperity, and enduring legacies that would benefit generations to come. The club reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to the intellectual and cultural development of the Oyo Kingdom through its programs and activities.

“With Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade on the throne, we are optimistic that the Oyo Kingdom will continue to shine as a beacon of culture, history, and education in Yorubaland and beyond,” the statement concluded.

 

Friday, April 28, 2023

Atiba Book Club Appoints Onike Rahaman Olalekan As Coordinator

 

ATIBA BOOK CLUB APPOINTS ONIKE RAHAMAN OLALEKAN AS COORDINATOR


 

The Atiba Book Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Onike Rahaman Olalekan as its new Coordinator. Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan is a Principal Assistant Registrar at the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role.

Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan is a seasoned administrator, freelance writer, academic researcher, editorial consultant, author, policy analyst, bibliophile, and educationist, with over ten years of experience in the education sector. He has a passion for promoting reading culture and has been an active member of the Atiba Book Club since its inception in 2021.

As the Coordinator of Atiba Book Club, Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan will oversee the day-to-day operations of the club, including organizing monthly reading challenges, selecting books for discussion, and coordinating guest speaker events. He will also work closely with the club's members to encourage participation and facilitate intellectual discussions and critical analysis of literary works.

Under Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan 's leadership, the Atiba Book Club will continue to provide a vibrant community for students and book lovers who are passionate about literature and learning. Members will have access to an online library of books and resources, and be encouraged to submit book reviews and creative writing pieces for publication on the club's website.

The Atiba Book Club is an important platform for promoting reading culture and intellectual discourse in Oyo town. The club's activities cut across the four Oyo Local Government Areas, including Atiba LGA, Oyo East LGA, Oyo West LGA, and Afijio LGA. Members have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with fellow book lovers from different communities and backgrounds.

The Atiba Book Club aims to foster a love for reading and learning among students, as well as provide a platform for personal and professional development. Through its activities, the club promotes critical thinking, creativity, and intellectual curiosity, which are essential skills for success in today's fast-paced world.

The Atiba Book Club is affiliated with the Society of Young Nigerian Writers, Nigeria, and shares its mission of promoting literary excellence and intellectual discourse. The club's members are encouraged to participate in the Society's activities and events, including literary contests, workshops, and conferences.

The Atiba Book Club recognizes the importance of partnerships and collaborations in promoting reading culture and intellectual discourse. The club welcomes partnerships with schools, libraries, and other organizations in Oyo town area to promote its mission and expand its reach.

The Atiba Book Club is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for individuals to explore different genres, cultures, and perspectives through reading and discussion. The club encourages members to share their thoughts and perspectives on various literary works, fostering a sense of community and intellectual engagement.

The Atiba Book Club is excited to have Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan as its new Coordinator and looks forward to the continued growth and success of the club under his leadership. The club invites all book lovers and students in the Oyo town area to join its vibrant community and participate in its activities.

Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan was born on July 13, 1972, in Oyo Town, Oyo State, Nigeria. With a rich educational background, he attended the traditional Islamic Training Centre in his early childhood years and later became a tutor at the Imam Hammed Arabic and Islamic Study Centre, Oyo. He completed his elementary education at L.A Town School, Awumaro, Oyo, where he earned his primary school leaving certificate.

Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan proceeded to Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, for his Senior Secondary School education and completed it from 1985 to 1991. He got admission into the then Oyo State College of Education, now Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, from 1992 to 1995, where he was awarded a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) specializing in Political Science & Social Studies.

He then gained admission into the University of Ado-Ekiti to study Social Studies between 2001 and 2006 and graduated with Second Class Upper Division. Alhaji Onike Rahaman attended the University of Ibadan for his Master's degree and graduated with M.Ed(Social Studies) with Ph.D. proceed grade in 2011.

Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan has been a human rights activist since 1989, investing his time and energy into human rights education, advocacy, and struggle against social injustice and military rule. He has been a member of various human rights groups, including the Civil Liberties Organisation, Campaign for Democracy, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), Human Right Africa, and Nigerianity movement, among others.

As a Students' Union Activist, Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan started activism right from his secondary school days at Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo. He was known for always fighting against injustice and oppression, and he held various positions in school clubs and organizations. He was also a member of various student ideological groups and committees.

Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan is an accomplished writer, starting his writing career as a freelance writer for TELL, The News, PM New, and Tempo. He has over one hundred writing portfolios and is also a speechwriter and ghostwriter for several eminent personalities and political office holders. He writes frequently for several print and online media platforms, including The Cable, Premium Times, Nigerian Tribune, Daily Trust, Nigeria Opinion, Sahara Reporters, among others. Alhaji Onike has written three books and has chapter contributions in several books.

Leveraging on his writing skill, experience, and knowledge of rules of usage, Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan has been an editorial consultant to several organizations and individuals. He has edited over ten books and several student magazines. Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan has attended several academic conferences, seminars, and workshops where he presented papers on contemporary issues, and some of his research works have been published in learned Journals.

Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan has served in the public service for over two decades. He joined the services of Oyo State Universal Basic Education in 2001 as an Executive Officer and rose to become a Higher Executive Officer General Administration and Head of Confidential Registry from 2006 to 2008. He joined the services of the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora, in the year 2008 as Administrative Officer II. As a Professional Administrator, he has served in several strategic Committees of the Governing Council, Management, and Board of Studies.

Alhaji Onike Rahaman Olalekan is a member of the Editorial Board, Premier News, and is also the Social and Cultural Editor of 1st Africa International Magazine. He is one of the editors of KedNews, a book project editor, and book reviewer.

 

 

 

 

Friday, June 3, 2022

Olowu, Chijioke To Headline Webinar On Promoting Reading Culture

 

OLOWU, CHIJIOKE TO HEADLINE WEBINAR ON PROMOTING READING CULTURE

 


Atiba Book Club, a literary organization based in Oyo State has set aside June 7th, 2022 to host two prominent librarians; Mrs. Kemi Olowu and Mrs Okwuoma Chidumebi Chijioke. They will be speaking on the Importance of Book Clubs in the Book Writing Industry and Ways to build your Community/School’s reading culture.

A statement issued by the Coordinator of the Club, Odetola Emmanuel Ekundayo said the event would take place via Whatsapp by 8:00PM.

According to the statement, Webinar on Promoting Reading Culture is a day online course for writers, Librarians and book lovers who are new and wants to know more about books clubs and book industry in Nigeria. Also facts about Nigerian libraries and other facts associated with it.

 The Webinar offers the opportunity to learn from a faculty of nationally known 
professionals in the field of writing and reading and to meet fellow writers/readers who share common interests. 

PROFILES OF OUR GUEST SPEAKERS

KEMI OLOWU

Mrs. kemi olowu is an official of a research Institute in Lagos, Nigeria. She is a graduate of Religious Studies and English from the University of Ife (later known as Obafemi Awolowo University). She also bagged a Masters Degree in Library Science from the University of lbadan which has conferred the privilege of working as a librarian for close to two and half decades. She is married with children. Mrs. Olowu loves reading as a lifetime hobby. 

OKWUOMA CHIDUMEBI CHIJIOKE

 

Mrs Okwuoma Chidumebi Chijioke is currently a Chief Librarian, National Library of Nigeria, Enugu State branch. She bagged her first degree in Library Science and English from UNN and her Masters degree in Library and Information Science from the same University. She is currently a Ph.D student of the same Institution. Mrs. Okwuoma is also the Convener, Berachah Children's Club, Enugu.

 

Friday, October 15, 2021

Atiba Book Club congratulates Alaafin of Oyo on his 83rd birthday

 

ATIBA BOOK CLUB CONGRATULATES ALAAFIN OF OYO ON HIS 83RD BIRTHDAY


 

 Atiba Book Club, one of the initiatives of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers founded to promote reading culture in the four local government areas of Oyo town has congratulated the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III on the occasion of his 83rd birthday anniversary.

 

In a statement on Friday, the Coordinator of Atiba Book Club, Odetola Emmanuel Ekundayo hailed the Traditional Ruler for his first class administrative shrewdness and his royal forthrightness which has injected peace and harmony in Oyo State and the whole of Yorubaland.

 

According to him, “the rein of Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III as the Alaafin of Oyo has enabled the ancient city to witness tremendous development and achievements.”

 

Odetola Emmanuel Ekundayo further described the foremost monarch as a real custodian of values, culture and traditions of Yoruba land.

 

The group prayed that the legacy of peace, harmony, prosperity and steadfast progress which the Oyo town has witnessed since the monarch’s reign would endure perpetually.

 

Odetola Emmanuel Ekundayo finally prayed that almighty God would continue to give Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, more energy, wisdom and grace to continue to lead Oyo town and environs.

 

 

 

Atiba Book Club Congratulates New Alaafin, Oba Akeem Owoade I

 **ATIBA BOOK CLUB CONGRATULATES NEW ALAAFIN, OBA AKEEM OWOADE I** The Atiba Book Club has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Oba Ake...