By lfeanyi Ndukwe,

The Coordinator, Society of Young Nigerian Writers (Anambra State Chapter), Izunna Okafor, in an official press statement in Awka Anambra state has announced the forthcoming memorial lecture on Chinua Achebe on high note.

According to the multiple award winning journalist, Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture is an annual event designed to honour the iconic Nigerian literary giant , Late Prof. Chinua Achebe; celebrating his life, works and legacies.

Okafor further stated that this year's event will hold on Achebe's birthday, November 16, 2023, at the Prof. Kenneth Dike Digital State Library, Awka.

He said the programme is slated to begin 10am prompt; with many dignitaries and participants in attendance.

Okafor said the event will feature the 2023 Achebe Lecture, drama, spoken words, poetry, announcement of the winners of the 2023 Chinua Achebe Essay Writing Competition (for secondary schools), special reading, award presentation, among other literary packages slated for the day.

He also stated that the occasion would feature the unveiling and presentation of the 8th Chinua Achebe Poetry/Essay Anthology, entitled “Anthills of Words (In Memory of Achebe)”, which is the association's newest international anthology of poems and essays, published in honour of Achebe.

Okafor said the open-to-all event, event will be used to mark Achebe's 93 posthumous birthday and ten years of his death.

This year's edition is themed "Ten Years After… Remembering Achebe’s Legacies in Today’s Nigeria”

Additionally, the Presidential Candidate of Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi is expected to deliver the lecture series.

While,the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo is expected to be the Special Guest of Honour at the event.

The event would be Chaired by Traditional Ruler of Obosi, H.R.H. Igwe Iweka 111; the Traditional Ruler of Achebe's hometown, Ogidi, H.R.H. Igwe Alex Uzo Onyido will also grace the occasion as the Royal Father of the Day.