Author on why publishing houses should encourage young and talented Nigerian writers

Shortlisted for the Wole Soyinka Prize for Literature in 2014, Othuke Ominiabohs is usually described as that author with the magic touch.

In an interview with Franklyne Ikediasor, he shares his five favourite books of all time and why publishing houses should encourage young and talented Nigerian writers.

Do you subscribe to the widely held belief that Nigerians do not read? And what can be done to improve the literary space In Nigeria?

Nigerians definitely read. To improve the literary scene, we need actual publishing houses dedicated to publishing young and talented Nigerian writers, and not the vanity presses and printing presses that abound. We need more Nigerian books in the school curriculums at all levels to foster reading among teenagers and even adults.

We need publicity and distribution/marketing channels to ensure the books get to the end users - the reader. And lastly, we need a breed of writers that‎ are attentive to the literary palate of the average Nigerian reader.

We need writers who can also be humane, who can realise that they have been given a great gift with which they MUST elevate all of humanity, and not go around acting like peacocks because they imagine their talents as bright-feathered plumes for show off.

Now there is this argument about the expectations we place on writers especially in Africa. Some argue that writers should try and bring about positive change in society through their work. Do you subscribe to that? or do you believe that a writer doesn't have to carry the moral burden of changing society?

To whom much is given, much is expected in return. EVERY gift given man is for a purpose. As writers, we must each find that purpose and bring it to life. I think bringing about positive change in society through our works is one of ‎those purposes.

Do you think the bar is lowered for African writers?

No, I don't think so. African writers are giants of their own right. In recent times I have been able to equate our literature with literature from the rest of the world.

5 of his favorite books and why he loves them:

Master of The Game by Sydney Sheldon

The Bourne Series by Robert Ludlum

Cane and Abel by Jeffrey Archer

The New Man by Femi Ademiluyi

Second Class Citizen by Buchi Emecheta

All five books have stuck with me till date, characters and all. And it was after reading these works I knew I was going to be a writer someday. Lastly, they had informed my writing style.

Franklyne Ikediasor is partial to black coffee and a good African Novel. He lives in Portharcourt Nigeria where he spends his leisure time running, cycling or getting together with friends to share bouts of wine fuelled laughter. He tweets @ThatPortharcourtBoy

Compliment this with Aminatta Forna,Taiye Selasi best books for summer 2016, Nigerian authors reveal books that shaped their lives and see Chinelo Okparanta favourite books

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