Meet the NPA@60 Keynote Speaker: Dr. Wale Okediran

MEET THE NPA@60 KEYNOTE SPEAKER: DR. WALE OKEDIRAN

Born on April 14, 1955, in Oyo, Nigeria, Dr. Wale Okediran displayed early aptitude in both the humanities and the sciences. 

In secondary school, he was an active member of the press club and debating society, reflecting his love for literature alongside his academic pursuits in science. 

At the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife), he pursued Medicine and Surgery, qualifying as a medical doctor in April 1980. While mastering human anatomy and disease, he remained committed to literary endeavors, editing the campus newspaper Rip Off and nurturing his storytelling talent. 

This early duality between science and literature set the stage for a multidimensional career.

MEDICAL CAREER

Following his graduation, Dr. Okediran practiced at the University Teaching Hospital, Ibadan, and later at an orthopedic hospital in Lagos. Choosing to remain a general practitioner, he addressed the full spectrum of human health. In 1987, he founded the Cornerstone Medical Centre in Ibadan, where he practiced until 1999, demonstrating empathy, holistic care, and public health advocacy. His professional accolades include:

·         Fellow of the General Medical Practitioners of Nigeria

·         Fellow of the Public Health Physicians of Nigeria

·         Health columnist for The Nigerian Tribune

·         Consultant for UNICEF, UNAIDS, and the Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria

Through these roles, Dr. Okediran bridged clinical practice and public health education, enriching his insights into human resilience and suffering—perspectives that permeate his literary works.

LITERARY CAREER AND CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Okediran’s literary journey began in secondary school and matured at the University of Ife. Over the years, he has published twelve novels—nine for adult readers and three for children—many of which feature on reading lists of universities across Nigeria, including the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Ahmadu Bello University, Nasarawa State University, and University of Maiduguri.

Notable works include:

·         Rainbows Are For Lovers (1987)

·         The Boys at the Border (1991), shortlisted for the 1992 Commonwealth Literature Prize

·         Storms of Passion (1995)

·         The Rescue of Uncle Babs (1998), winner of the 1999 ANA/Matatu Prize for Children’s Literature

·         Ten Novellettes on the HIV/AIDS Theme (2001)

·         Sighs of Desire (2002)

·         Dreams Die at Twilight (2002), longlisted for the 2004 NLNG Literature Prize

·         Strange Encounters (2004), winner of the 2005 ANA Prize for Fiction

·         After the Flood (2005)

·         The Weaving Looms (2005), shortlisted for the 2008 Wole Soyinka Prize for African Literature

·         The Riot and Other Stories (2006)

·         Tenants of the House (2009), co-winner of the 2010 Wole Soyinka Prize for African Literature

His collaborative works include Human Rights Educational Book for Children (Amnesty International, 1995) and Encyclopedia of Post-Colonial Literature in English (Routledge, London).

LITERARY LEADERSHIP AND MENTORSHIP

Dr. Okediran has been instrumental in developing Nigerian literature through his leadership roles in the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), serving as National Treasurer, General Secretary, and National President. He promoted the establishment of ANA branches, organized seminars and conferences, and fostered a culture of publication and literary excellence. In June 2010, he founded the Ebedi International Writers Residency in Iseyin, Oyo State—the first writers’ resort in Nigeria—providing an environment for emerging and established authors to focus on their craft. Alumni include notable writers such as Romeo Oriogun, Chimezie Chika, Chibuihe-Obi Achimba, and T.J. Benson.

POLITICAL AND PUBLIC SERVICE CAREER

Driven by the belief that writers should engage directly in governance, and inspired by his mentor Chief Bola Ige, Dr. Okediran entered politics. He served as Chairman of the Oyo State North Hospitals Management Board until 2003, then represented his constituency in the Federal House of Representatives from 2004 to 2007. In parliament, he co-founded the Forum for Democracy and Good Governance, championing people-centered policies and opposing the third-term bid of President Olusegun Obasanjo. His political work integrated his medical expertise and literary insight to advocate for healthcare improvements and democratic reforms.

CURRENT ROLES AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Okediran serves as Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) and as a consultant to the National Assembly, advising the Senate Committee on Health and the House Committee on HIV, Malaria, and TB. Through these roles, he continues to shape literary, health, and policy initiatives in Nigeria and across Africa.

PHILOSOPHY AND LEGACY

At the core of Dr. Okediran’s vision is the belief that interdisciplinary engagement enriches society. He champions the development of writers, the expansion of publishing opportunities, and the elevation of African literature globally. His work demonstrates how literature, medicine, and civic engagement can collectively inspire social change, nurture talent, and strengthen communities. Dr. Wale Okediran’s enduring legacy is a testament to the transformative power of intellectual versatility and public service.