The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) on Wednesday congratulated Professor Gregory Nnamdi Nnabike Mbajiorgu on the occasion of his 62nd birthday, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished literary scholars, dramatists, and cultural ambassadors whose contributions to African theatre and environmental literature continue to inspire generations of writers, dramatists, and academics across the continent.
In a statement jointly issued by ANA President, Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and General Secretary, Joan Oji, the association praised Mbajiorgu for his enduring commitment to the advancement of Nigerian literature, theatre arts, and creative scholarship through decades of teaching, writing, mentoring, and artistic innovation.
According to the statement: “Mbajiorgu remains one of the foremost pioneers of solo theatre in Africa, especially through his groundbreaking work, The Prime Minister’s Son (1991), widely regarded as Africa’s first published monodrama. ANA noted that his remarkable contributions to one-man theatre have expanded the frontiers of dramatic performance and inspired a new generation of playwrights and performers within and beyond Nigeria.”
The association further commended the celebrant for his unwavering advocacy for environmental consciousness through eco-theatre.
His plays, including Wake Up Everyone and Wota na Wota, were described as intellectually engaging and socially relevant works that draw attention to climate change, environmental degradation, and sustainable living. ANA noted that his literary interventions continue to amplify the importance of ecological preservation in contemporary African discourse.
ANA also acknowledged Mbajiorgu’s scholarly contributions to theatre documentation and literary preservation. His collaborative editorial work on 50 Years of Solo Performing Art in Nigerian Theatre 1966–2016 and The Power of One: An Anthology of Nigerian Solo Plays was described as invaluable to researchers, students, and practitioners of theatre arts across Africa.
ANA equally celebrated his accomplishments as a poet and public intellectual, particularly his environmentally conscious poetry collection, Plastics, Plastics Everywhere, which explores the dangers of plastic pollution and humanity’s responsibility toward environmental sustainability. The association stated that his writings consistently combine artistic excellence with social responsibility.
The association further described Mbajiorgu as a committed academic whose impact at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka has contributed immensely to the development of theatre and film studies in Nigeria. ANA noted that his dedication to scholarship, mentorship, and creative excellence has earned him admiration within academic and literary circles globally.
While wishing him many more years of sound health, creative productivity, and national service, ANA prayed that Mbajiorgu would continue to inspire younger generations of writers, scholars, dramatists, and environmental advocates through his outstanding body of work and unwavering dedication to the growth of African literature and theatre.
