By Nehru Odeh

Professor Niyi Osundare easily elicits awe and reverence. The Emeritus Distinguished Professor of English at the University of New Orleans is not just a celebrated poet, writer, essayist, columnist, scholar, and public intellectual. He is also a passionate advocate for the common good.

For over five decades, the farmer-born, peasant-raised Osundare has championed the cause of the Nigerian masses through his literary and political works. Even at great personal risk, he has remained a relentless voice for justice and progress, engaging in a continuous dialogue with his homeland and the world.

In recognition of his immense contributions, he was honored with the Nigerian National Order of Merit Award (NNOM) in 2014. A decade later, his literary and social impact continues to inspire.To commemorate the 10th anniversary of this prestigious award, the Niyi Osundare International Poetry Festival (NOIPOFEST) and the Department of English at the University of Ibadan organized a symposium with the theme “Niyi Osundare: Ten Years After, The Harvest Continues.”

The event, held on Wednesday, December 11, at the Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan, was a celebration of intellect and creativity. It featured tributes, poetry readings, music, dance, and drama. Renowned poet and journalist, Chiedu Ezeanah, performed his piece, “Dreamside Exchange With Niyi Osundare,” while Jumoke Owoala captivated the audience with her poem, “A Peck Is No Longer Enough.” Soji Agbekekale added to the artistic atmosphere with his performance, “Alagbede Oro.”

Distinguished guests included Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, who chaired the event, and literary icons such as Prof. Emeritus Dan Izevbaye, Prof. Emeritus Femi Osofisan, and writer Tade Ipadeola. Also present were Molara Wood, Prof. Wumi Raji, Edmund Obilo, and Dele Morakinyo.Students from International School Ibadan, Abadina College, and Emmanuel High School not only attended but actively participated, a gesture that delighted Professor Osundare.

In his speech, Osundare expressed gratitude to the organizers, emphasizing the principles guiding NOIPOFEST: independence from questionable sponsorships and the inclusion of high school students in the event.Reflecting on his journey, the prolific author of works like “Songs of the Marketplace” and “The Eye of the Earth” recounted his humble beginnings. “I wasn’t born a giant,” he said, recalling his childhood in Ekiti and his parents’ modest means. He encouraged the students present, saying, “You are the people of tomorrow.

My hope rises when I see you. The journey of a thousand years begins with a single step. ”Osundare also spoke of the significance of the Nigerian National Order of Merit Award, which he described as the only award in Nigeria that aligns with scholarly values. “I wanted to be in the company of Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, and JP Clark,” he said, adding that the recognition reflects a Nigeria that still upholds integrity and excellence.

The day was a fitting tribute to a man whose life and work continue to inspire generations. For Professor Niyi Osundare, the harvest of ideas and impact truly continues.