By Abiodun Moshood Olowokogbajo
The literary landscape of Lagos State University and beyond, experienced an intellectual awakening over the past month, courtesy of the spectacular launch and run of AJAKAYE STRIDA LITERARY LIMELIGHT. Broadcasting live every Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm on LASU Radio 95.7 FM—rightly dubbed Lively and Solidly Unique—this masterfully curated programme has rapidly established itself as the premier destination for academic enrichment and creative expression.
Led by the brilliant and charismatic Host, Ajakaye Rashidat Olamide, alongside dynamic Co-hosts Abiodun Moshood Olowokogbajo and Vincent Hosu, the programme spent the month of April empowering young minds, shaping voices, and dissecting profound literary works. Here is a comprehensive review of the four monumental editions that defined an unforgettable maiden month on the airwaves.
The airwaves crackled with inspiration on the 7th of April during the highly anticipated debut edition of the programme. Setting out with the noble objective of building voices and strengthening the future of literature, the introductory session was a masterclass in literary mentorship. The studio hosted two distinguished academic giants: Dr Abayomi Awelewa of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Dr Funmi Gaji of the University of Ibadan (UI). Together with the hosts, these exceptional scholars shared profound insights into the creative process, offering invaluable blueprints on how to nurture and empower upcoming writers. The session successfully laid the foundation for the programme’s core mission: guiding listeners to striking confidence in academic and creative writing.
The second installment of the programme shifted the spotlight towards critical societal issues through the lens of modern African literature. The team engaged in a rigorous analysis of Kabir Alabi Garba’s compelling text, “The Lekki Headmaster,” focusing heavily on the structural costs of ageing and retirement within the teaching profession. To dissect these themes, the studio welcomed two insightful guest speakers, Daniel Akinrinmola Aroworade and Omotosho Sodiq Babatunde, whose expert contributions, alongside co-host Abiodun Moshood’s sharp studio analysis, sparked intense engagement from listeners. Adding a profound international dimension to the episode, the programme featured a thought-provoking recorded poem by Dr Saloni Chawla from India, which offered a stark reflection on contemporary global tensions. The interactive session saw enthusiastic phone calls from the public, with a listener named Islamiyat emerging as the lucky winner of the maiden call-in recharge card prize.
Intellectual rigor took center stage in the third week as the programme tackled “The Stretch of Decision-Making in Leadership.” This episode was particularly vital for prospective scholars, as it critically explored two major Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) set texts: William Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy “Antony and Cleopatra” and Efua Sutherland’s classic “The Marriage of Anansewa.” Guest speaker Ikechukwu Obi (popularly known as Ikechukwu HOC) brought immense depth, clarity, and brilliance to the studio. The discussion elegantly bridged the gap between classical literature and the contemporary world, demonstrating how these dramatic texts serve as mirrors for modern governance, political strategy, and administrative decision-making.
The final edition of the month was a deeply emotional and motivational session anchored on the theme of “Survival Through Resilience and Adaptation.” The episode commenced on a powerful note with a moving poem on human pain and ultimate survival, delivered by an evocative young wordsmith known simply as Poetry. Building upon this theme, guest speaker Matthias Kolade Adebayo graced the studio to share profound excerpts from the text “The Day My Name Found Air.” In an exemplary display of literary advocacy, Adebayo also beautifully represented and analysed Zuwaira Halilu’s poignant narrative, “The Tale of a Village Girl.” The episode resonated deeply with the audience, prompting a flood of interactive phone calls from listeners who praised the show’s capacity to address the raw realities of human adaptation.
In just four weeks, Ajakaye STRIDA Literary Limelight has proved itself to be more than just a radio show; it is an active catalyst for intellectual transformation. By blending rigorous academic criticism with accessible creative discourse, the team continues to change the narrative surrounding literary education in Nigeria. Do not miss out on the next wave of literary excellence. Set your alarms and join Ajakaye Rashidat, Abiodun Moshood, and Vincent Hosu every Tuesday at 2:30 pm prompt on LASU Radio 95.7 FM as they continue their journey of guiding you to striking confidence in academic and creative writing!
© Abiodun Moshood Olowokogbajo
