The Ademola Adesola OAU Book Event left a lasting impression on students and lecturers at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. The Nigerian-Canadian poet and scholar described the gathering as one of the most rewarding stops on his ongoing tour for his debut poetry collection, Dancing with My Tongue.
Held last Friday at the Department of English, the event brought together faculty members, students, and literature enthusiasts. Despite heavy rainfall, participants attended in large numbers and engaged in lively discussions on poetry, race, politics, publishing, and academic life.
Students and Faculty Create a Memorable Experience
Adesola said the warm reception from both lecturers and students made the visit unforgettable. According to him, the conversations and encouragement he received will remain among his most cherished memories.
His visit began on Thursday with an informal lunch alongside several students. Later that evening, the group grew larger as student leaders from different organisations joined him for discussions over drinks.
The conversations focused on studentship, career development, graduate education, and leadership. Adesola described the interaction as meaningful and rewarding because it allowed students to ask questions about their future while sharing their aspirations.
On Friday, before the public reading, the author also spent time with members of the Department of English. Their discussions centred on the current state of teaching and research in the humanities before everyone gathered for lunch ahead of the main event.
Poetry Reading Sparked Conversations Beyond Literature
The highlight of the day came during the public reading of Dancing with My Tongue. Adesola presented six poems from the collection and used them to open conversations about racism, politics, creativity, publishing, and identity.
He noted that students and lecturers refused to let the heavy rain stop them from attending. Their commitment, he said, demonstrated a genuine passion for literature and intellectual engagement.
Adesola also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return to his alma mater and interact directly with students. He encouraged them to pursue academic excellence while remaining committed to personal growth and intellectual curiosity.
Several lecturers attended the programme and contributed thoughtful remarks. Among them were Professors Chijioke Uwasomba and Niyi Okunoye, as well as Drs. Olusegun-Joseph, Rebecca Adugbe, Joseph Nnachi, other faculty members, and doctoral students.
Retired Professor Reviews the Collection
One of the memorable moments came when retired Professor of African Literature, Professor ‘Lere Samson Oladitan, joined the event by telephone from Canada.
During his remarks, Oladitan shared his review of Dancing with My Tongue. He explained that he identified 11 distinct parts within the collection, including its paratexts.
His analysis also drew attention to important references in African literary history. Adesola said he especially appreciated Oladitan’s discussion of Léopold Sédar Senghor’s literary tradition and his reflections on the historic Black Orpheus publications.
The poet added that he intends to share the complete review once it is officially published.
Professor Uwasomba’s Support Delighted Students
Adesola reserved special appreciation for Professor Chijioke Uwasomba, whom he described as both his teacher and a dedicated mentor.
Although Uwasomba is currently on sabbatical, he coordinated the event with several committed students, including Joel, Isaiah, Emmanuel, Sael, and Tomi.
The professor had organised a similar academic event for Adesola the previous year during the launch of his monograph on literary representations of children and warfare.
One of the day’s biggest surprises came when Uwasomba presented every first-year student in attendance with a complimentary copy of Dancing with My Tongue.
The unexpected gesture drew loud applause and excitement from the students. According to Adesola, the joy on their faces reflected the impact books can have on young readers.
Book Tour Continues at the University of Lagos
After the poetry reading, Adesola signed copies of his book and posed for photographs with attendees. Even after the official programme ended, many students remained behind to ask more questions.
The evening concluded with a dinner where discussions continued in a relaxed atmosphere. Conversations ranged from literature and higher education to publishing opportunities and career development.
As the gathering came to an end around 10 p.m., participants reluctantly said their goodbyes.
Reflecting on the experience, Adesola said the memories created during the visit are priceless and will remain with him for years.
His literary tour will continue with another stop at the Department of English, University of Lagos, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. He invited readers, students, and literature enthusiasts to attend the event and join the conversation surrounding Dancing with My Tongue.
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