Writers under the aegis of the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW Global) have congratulated one of Nigeria’s foremost literary figures, Mrs. Mabel Segun, on the remarkable occasion of her 95th birthday.
The Society, in a statement issued by its President, Wole Adedoyin, lauded Segun for her unparalleled contributions to Nigerian literature and her lifelong dedication to promoting children’s literature in the country.
Mabel Segun, born in 1930, is an iconic Nigerian poet, playwright, short story writer, and children’s book author. She has touched generations with her rich storytelling, deeply resonant themes, and a tireless commitment to cultural preservation through literature. Over the decades, her work has earned both national and international recognition, making her one of the most revered figures in African literature.
Segun’s literary journey began with her first book, My Father’s Daughter, published in 1965. The book has not only been a favorite in Nigerian schools but is also widely used as a literature text around the globe. This achievement marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would see her become one of the trailblazers for Nigerian and African children’s literature. Her works have been translated into several languages, including German, Danish, Norwegian, and Greek, further solidifying her status as a global literary ambassador.
A tireless advocate for children’s literature, Segun founded the Children’s Literature Association of Nigeria in 1978, an organization that continues to champion the cause of young readers and writers. In 1990, she further demonstrated her commitment to literary development with the establishment of the Children’s Documentation and Research Centre in Ibadan. This landmark initiative provided a space for the growth and development of Nigerian children’s books, nurturing the literary voices of the next generation.
As a founding member of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) in 1981, Segun played a key role in shaping the literary landscape of Nigeria. Her work within the association, alongside other literary luminaries like Chinua Achebe, paved the way for the recognition of Nigerian literature on the global stage. Her extensive involvement in the literary community has had a lasting impact on the growth and evolution of Nigerian authorship.
Segun’s diverse career also spanned broadcasting, where she won the prestigious Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation’s Artiste of the Year award in 1977. This accolade recognized her exceptional contribution to the Nigerian entertainment and media industries. As a broadcaster, she was able to further reach audiences across the country, engaging listeners with her passion for storytelling.
In addition to her broadcasting and literary achievements, Segun has been honored with numerous prestigious awards, including the Nigerian National Order of Merit Award (NNOM) in 2009 for her lifetime of achievements in literature. This recognition stands as a testament to her profound influence on Nigerian literature and her unparalleled commitment to fostering a literary culture that nurtures creativity and excellence.
Some of Segun’s other notable works include Under the Mango Tree (co-edited in 1979), Youth Day Parade (1984), Olu and the Broken Statue (1985), Conflict and Other Poems (1986), The Twins and the Tree Spirits (1990), The Surrender and Other Stories (1995), Readers’ Theatre: Twelve Plays for Young People (2006), and Rhapsody: A Celebration of Nigerian Cooking and Food Culture (2007), among many others. Each of these works reflects her deep understanding of the human experience, as well as her ability to craft stories that entertain, educate, and inspire.
As Mrs. Mabel Segun celebrates this remarkable milestone, the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (SYNW Global) offers prayers for her continued good health, peace, and divine grace. They pray that she is blessed with many more years of strength, wisdom, and fulfillment. They also pray that her inspiring legacy continues to thrive, and that her life remains a beacon of hope and encouragement for generations of writers and readers. The Society prays that the Almighty continues to guide her path and bless her abundantly for the invaluable contributions she has made to literature and to the world.
Packaged by Alice Egbedele
