A renowned playwriting and politician, Jerry Alagbaoso has scored President Bola Tinubu high in his first year in charge of the nation’s affairs.
Alagbaoso said the president has sp far done well in solving the countries numerous challenges.
Alagbaoso, a three time member of the House of Representatives between 2011 -2023 said the president is doing well so far.
Speaking during a Reading and Writers dialogue themed: Politics and the Writers Power for Positive Change” in Abuja at the weekend said, “It is not easy to govern Nigeria. Nigeria is a complex place. The current leader is trying, we must give it to him.
” There is no way with his experience in Lagos as a governor and the experience he has, he knows the problems of the country and he is tackling it.”
Alagbaoso also said he was ready to lead in the pursue of the Author’s Trust Fund.
He said he would be championing the cause because of the importance of the bill.
The former lawmaker said the bill when passed into law would help make funds available for writers.
He said in other climes sponsors are financials that drives but in Nigeria, writers write and begins to look for sponsorship.
He however said ” With the Author Trust Fund, people will begin to write and even civil servants. Those who want to write will go there and derived there financial help.”
This, he said will also encourage the young ones who don’t have money to go into writing.
Speaking on the impact of writing on the society, Alagbaoso said that quality education and literacy resources equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern economy, thereby fostering a more prosperous society.
He also stated that Writers throughout history have been equipped with powerful tools for societal transformation.
He said, “In the realm of politics, writers play a crucial role in shaping public discourse, challenging the status quo, and advocating for positive change.
“Through their works, writers have the ability to
inspire, provoke thought, and ignite movements that can reshape the political landscape.
“Moreover, writers have the unique ability to hold those in power accountable.
“Indeed the relationship between politics and the writer’s power for positive change is profound and enduring.
“Through their creativity, courage, and commitment to truth, writers have the potential to shape political discourse, challenge injustice, and champion a better future for all.”
ARC. Chukwudi Eze, Chairman of Abuja chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) stressed the pivotal role of written craft in addressing poverty and propelling economic growth.
Eze said “We advocate for the written craft as a poverty-alleviation strategy stems from its ability to not only inspire and educate but also to create economic opportunities.
“By nurturing a culture of reading, writing, and creative expression, societies can unlock the untapped potential of their citizens, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation.
“So it is very important to mentor the youths to embrace the written craft and raise other Chinua Achebe’s,”he said.
Eze also reiterated ANA commitments towards supporting the younger generation to edit and publish their write up , scripts and books.
On his part, Francis Duru, a Nigerian actor who in 2007 received the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award for his positive influence on the youths, said that creative commodities like writing have the ability to create positive change.
Duru said “A lot of young people through creative writing that was converted into commodities have taken their families out of poverty.”
He also highlighted the intrinsic connection between literacy, economic productivity, and sustainable development
Amb. Albert Omotayo a Political Scientist, Author and Poet said writing serves as a powerful vehicle for social change by giving voice to marginalized groups.
He said, “The written craft raises awareness about important issues, challenging societal norms, and inspiring action towards a more just and equitable world.”
