By Abiodun Moshood Olowokogbajo
Literary scholar, poet and graduate assistant lecturer, Rashidat Olamidayo Ajakaye, has added another remarkable achievement to her growing literary profile with her inclusion in the newly published poetry anthology, “Garlands for the Dream Seeker.” The anthology, edited by eminent literary figures Denja Abdullahi and Ezekiel Fajenyo, brings together an impressive array of poets whose works reflect the richness, diversity and evolving traditions of contemporary African poetry. Rather than revolving around a single subject or personality, the collection presents a variety of poetic voices, themes and artistic expressions, making it a significant contribution to Nigerian and African literary scholarship.
Among the distinguished contributors featured in the anthology are Olufemi Obafemi, Niyi Osundare, Akeem Lasisi, Mark Nwagwu, Sàngódáré Ayinlá, Yemi Atanda, Wellington Nwogu, Chris Anyokwu, Umar Yogiza, Vivian Mbebla Caleb, Denja Abdullahi, Femi Adedina, Ezekiel Fajenyo, Rashidat Olamidayo Ajakaye, Ismail Bala, Ebika Anthony, Francis Otole, Sumaila Umaisha, Abraham Mondoana, Olayiwola Abdulgudus Lanwal, Okoli Stephen Nonso, and Nkwetatang Sampson Ngakchie. Their collective contributions showcase the breadth of poetic imagination and intellectual engagement that characterise contemporary African literature.
For Ajakaye, whose literary career has continued to flourish through poetry, scholarship and literary advocacy, appearing alongside such celebrated writers represents another important milestone. Her inclusion not only affirms the growing recognition of her creative voice but also situates her among a community of respected poets whose works continue to enrich African literary discourse. Ajakaye’s contribution to the anthology, “Do I Praise Okinba Launko or His Poems?”, is a carefully crafted tribute to one of Africa’s foremost literary icons, Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan (Okinba Launko). While the anthology itself embraces diverse poetic themes, Ajakaye’s poem distinguishes itself by offering a thoughtful reflection on the extraordinary literary legacy of the renowned dramatist, poet and scholar. Structured around the recurring rhetorical question, “Do I Praise Okinba Launko or His Poems?”, the poem explores the inseparable relationship between the artist and his creative accomplishments. Rather than merely celebrating the personality of Professor Osofisan, Ajakaye foregrounds the enduring value of his writings, suggesting that his literary works constitute an immortal legacy that transcends generations.
The poem is enriched with vivid imagery and literary allusions. In describing Osofisan as one “whose words can make a black cloud white,” Ajakaye presents poetry as a transformative force capable of inspiring hope, reshaping thought and advancing societal consciousness. She further characterises his writings as “didactic and worthy of reading,” underscoring their educational, moral and intellectual significance. One of the poem’s strongest artistic qualities lies in its intertextual references to Professor Osofisan’s literary works, including “End of the War,” “The Nation,” and “So I Went Seeking.” These references demonstrate Ajakaye’s familiarity with Osofisan’s oeuvre while illustrating how his poetry has shaped her own literary consciousness. Her engagement with these texts elevates the poem beyond admiration into an informed dialogue between two generations of writers.
The concluding movement of the poem affirms the permanence of literary excellence. Through memorable expressions such as “literary diamonds never die,” Ajakaye argues that genuine artistic achievement survives the passage of time. Her poem therefore becomes both a celebration of Professor Osofisan’s literary contributions and a broader affirmation of literature as a lasting cultural inheritance. The anthology also acknowledges Ajakaye’s growing academic and literary accomplishments. She is introduced as a graduate assistant lecturer in the Department of Language, Arts and Social Science Education, Faculty of Education, Lagos State University, whose scholarship, creative writing and literary leadership continue to impact both academia and the wider literary community. Her profile recognises her as the founder of “STRIDA,” an international literary community dedicated to promoting academic excellence, creative writing and cultural literacy, as well as the author of “Shattered Shadows of Youths” and a contributor to numerous national and international literary publications.
Special commendation is due to the editors, Denja Abdullahi and **Ezekiel Fajenyo, whose editorial expertise is evident throughout the anthology. Their successful curation of established literary giants alongside emerging and promising voices demonstrates a commendable commitment to nurturing literary excellence and preserving the vibrancy of African poetry. Through their editorial vision, “Garlands for the Dream Seeker” emerges as a valuable anthology that celebrates the multiplicity of poetic expression while providing a platform for both renowned and rising poets.
Rashidat Olamidayo Ajakaye’s appearance in “Garlands for the Dream Seeker” is therefore more than another publication credit. It is a significant literary accomplishment that reflects her steady rise within Nigeria’s contemporary literary landscape. Her contribution exemplifies intellectual depth, artistic maturity and an enduring commitment to celebrating literary excellence through poetry, further strengthening her reputation as one of the country’s promising voices in literature and literary education.
