Princeton’s Nigerian Student Association, in collaboration with the Lewis Center for the Arts, is set to host a compelling literary event examining Nigerian postcolonial identity. “The Canon 65 Years Later: Nigerian Literature and the Postcolonial Perspective” will take place on October 1, 2025, from 6-7:30 PM at 50 McCosh Hall.

The event celebrates Nigeria’s 65th year of independence by exploring how Nigerian postcolonial identity has been constructed through the stories that emerged following independence. The program features three prominent figures in third-generation Nigerian literature: Lola Shoneyin, Helon Habila, and Nnedi Okorafor.

Lola Shoneyin, author, poet, and founder of the Book Buzz Foundation, brings her expertise as both a creative writer and literary advocate. Helon Habila, acclaimed novelist and author of works including Waiting for an Angel and The Chibok Girls, offers perspectives on contemporary Nigerian fiction and its global reach. Nnedi Okorafor, award-winning science fiction and fantasy writer known for her Africanfuturist works, represents the innovative directions Nigerian literature continues to explore.

By placing these distinguished writers in conversation with one another, the event aims to examine the nuances that accompany postcolonial writing, including tribal identities, writing from the diaspora, and writing in resistance. The discussion will provide a roadmap for looking forward to the coming years of Nigerian postcolonial storytelling, asking critical questions: What strides have been made? What more can be accomplished by the diaspora of passionate artists? The conversation will address how Nigerian writers have both responded to and transcended colonial literary traditions while forging distinctly Nigerian narrative voices.

The timing is particularly significant, as October 1st marks Nigeria’s Independence Day, making this literary celebration a fitting tribute to six and a half decades of postcolonial artistic expression. The event is free and open to the public (virtual attendance also available), though advance registration is requested.