By Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti
The Ekiti State chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has organised a commemorative monthly reading in honour of renowned legal practitioner and author, Dr Tai Oguntayo, to mark his birthday.
The event, held on Friday, February 21, 2026, drew eminent personalities from government, academia, the media, and the private sector, reflecting Dr Oguntayo’s wide influence in literary and public circles.
The programme was convened under the leadership of the ANA Ekiti Chairman, Dr Gbenga Daramola.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Abibat Adubiaro; former Senator representing Ekiti Central, Babafemi Ojudu; Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism, Wale Ojo-Lanre; and Director-General of the Ekiti State Roads Fund, Folu Jide Ogunlayi.
Others included the Ekiti State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Kayode Babatuyi; Ekiti State Director of the Federal Ministry of Information, Federal Ministry of Information, Yemisi Omotola; and several scholars, professionals, and community leaders.
A major highlight of the celebration was the surprise presentation of a giant birthday cake and a special goodwill gesture by former Ekiti State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Wale Fapohunda (SAN), who was warmly acknowledged by the celebrant.
As Guest Reader, Dr Oguntayo led an interactive session titled “Book Publishing and Copyright Law in Nigeria: The Position of the Law,” engaging participants on contemporary legal issues affecting authors and publishers in the country. The session was moderated by the ANA Ekiti Vice Chairman, Funke Awodiya, who served as compere.
In his remarks, Dr Oguntayo expressed profound gratitude to colleagues, friends, and well-wishers for celebrating him and his twin brother, describing the honour as humbling.
He also commended ANA Ekiti for sustaining literary culture in the state and thanked alumni associations and students who added colour to the event.
The celebration concluded with prayers and goodwill messages for the celebrant, reinforcing ANA Ekiti’s commitment to recognising excellence and promoting literary discourse in Ekiti State.