AKURE BOOK CLUB CONGRATULATES GABRIEL SUNDAY AFOLAYAN ON HIS 56TH BIRTHDAY
The Akure Book Club has congratulated Gabriel Sunday Afolayan, the Ondo State Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), on the joyous occasion of his 56th birthday.
In a statement released by Wole Adedoyin, the founder of the Akure Book Club, the organization expressed its admiration and deep appreciation for Afolayan's exceptional contributions to the literary and intellectual world. "Gabriel Sunday Afolayan has been a beacon of inspiration in the literary community, and his tireless dedication to the arts has profoundly impacted both the local and national landscape," Adedoyin remarked.
Gabriel Sunday Afolayan stands out as a notable Nigerian writer, journalist, lecturer, and public affairs commentator. His work spans prose fiction, poetry, and creative essays, showcasing his versatility and talent.
Afolayan's journey into writing began during his university years, with contributions of articles, short stories, and local news to national newspapers and magazines. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication from Nnamdi Azikwe University and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in "Media and Ethno-political Crises in Nigeria" at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Afolayan's extensive career in journalism is marked by his tenure with prominent publications such as the National Concord, The Guardian, and Issues news magazine. His work in these outlets honed his skills in investigative and interpretative journalism. Beyond journalism, Afolayan also made significant strides in the manufacturing sector, where he rose to the position of Marketing Manager in a vegetable oil company. Presently, he imparts his knowledge as a lecturer, teaching journalism, media, and communication courses at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic in Owo, Nigeria.
Additionally, Afolayan's keen insights on societal issues have made him a sought-after guest on television and radio stations in Ondo State, where he regularly shares his perspectives on current affairs.
The literary achievements of Gabriel Sunday Afolayan are numerous and noteworthy. His debut novel, "Beyond the Silent Grave," received critical acclaim and was nominated for several prestigious awards. Afolayan has also authored other significant works, including "Romoke: The Little Orphan," and co-edited collections like "Pa Jeje's Legendary Tales" and "The Sunshine Tales." These publications have been extensively reviewed by Nigerian newspapers and esteemed scholars worldwide, further establishing his reputation as an influential writer. His books are often utilized as reference materials in universities, underscoring their academic value.
Afolayan's unwavering dedication to literature and community development is also evident through his active involvement in various organizations, most prominently the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA). As the current Chairman of the Ondo State Chapter, Afolayan has demonstrated a profound commitment to promoting Nigerian literature and supporting fellow writers. His passion for storytelling and his efforts to uplift society have earned him immense respect within the literary community.
The Akure Book Club expressed its gratitude for Afolayan's substantial contributions to literature and wished him continued success in all his future endeavors. The club looks forward to witnessing more of his impactful work and celebrates his enduring legacy in Nigerian literature.
