NIGERIAN WRITERS GAIN GLOBAL RECOGNITION IN RENOWNED CAUCASUS JOURNAL OF MILTON STUDIES
By Wole Adedoyin
The prestigious Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies (CJMS) has once again highlighted Nigeria’s literary brilliance by publishing works from five outstanding Nigerian writers in its first quarter edition of 2025. The featured contributors include Dr. Halima Samaila Muhammed, Maxwell Orah, Johanna Ataman, Adeniran Abdbasit Adeyemi, and Abdulrazaq Godwin Omeiza. Their works—ranging from critical academic research to poetry—stressed Nigeria's vibrant literary landscape and the growing presence of African voices in global literary platforms.
Dr. Halima Samaila Muhammed’s scholarly paper, An Analysis of Logico-Semantic Relation (Enhancement) of Clause Combination Patterns in Robert Mugabe’s Death Report in The Sun Online Newspaper, offers an in-depth linguistic analysis and is a testimony to her expertise in syntax and discourse analysis. Her contribution reflects the caliber of intellectual discourse CJMS continues to foster, with her work accessible via https://www.cjojms.com/index.php/research/article/view/157.
The poetry selections include Call Me Black by Maxwell Orah (https://www.cjojms.com/index.php/research/article/view/165), Fingertips by Johanna Ataman (https://www.cjojms.com/index.php/research/article/view/163), Spread Across My Lap by Adeniran Abdbasit Adeyemi (https://www.cjojms.com/index.php/research/article/view/162), and The Weight of Becoming by Abdulrazaq Godwin Omeiza (https://www.cjojms.com/index.php/research/article/view/164). Each poem is unique in voice and vision, illustrating the emotional and creative depth of Nigeria’s emerging and established poets.
CJMS (e-ISSN: 2720-8222) is an international, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to exploring the life and works of John Milton and promoting literary excellence through research and creative writing. Under the editorship of Danna Raupp and the auspices of the Milton Society of Georgia, the journal consistently promotes diverse literary voices. This latest edition strengthens its commitment to African contributions to English scholarship and creative expression.
The successful appearance of Nigerian writers in CJMS was made possible through the Milton Society of Africa (MSA), under the leadership of Wole Adedoyin. As President of MSA, Adedoyin has tirelessly promoted academic and creative collaboration between African writers and international literary institutions. MSA’s affiliation with the Milton Society of Georgia has served as a bridge for African talents to reach global audiences.
One of the authors, Maxwell Orah, is a poet and literature teacher based in Ibadan. His contribution, Call Me Black, is an exploration of identity, resilience, and pride. Orah is the founder of the Young Writers Club and a member of the Ibadan Book Club. He holds degrees in English from the University of Ibadan and is an advocate for poetic storytelling in contemporary African literature.
Another featured poet, Johanna Ataman, hailing from Benin City, brings a passionate voice to the pages of CJMS with her poem Fingertips. Ataman is a human rights advocate whose poetry serves as a voice for the marginalized. Her growing recognition in continental literary circles, including her achievements in the African Teen Writers Award, attests to her powerful pen and compelling themes.
Adeniran Abdbasit Adeyemi’s contribution, Spread Across My Lap, showcases his lyrical depth and thematic range. A prolific poet and arts advocate, Adeyemi is also a 2024 fellow of the Ebedi International Writers Residency. Known for his socially conscious works, he has previously appeared in Brittle Paper and other literary outlets, building a name as a champion of literature and youth empowerment.
The youngest contributor, Abdulrazaq Godwin Omeiza, is only 16 years old. His poem, The Weight of Becoming, reflects maturity beyond his years. A student at Government College Ibadan, Omeiza draws inspiration from his mentors and environment. He is a passionate literary talent committed to leadership, empathy, and social responsibility, and represents a promising future for Nigerian literature.
The Caucasus Journal of Milton Studies remains committed to publishing high-quality research and creative works from around the world. It invites scholars, poets, and literary enthusiasts to explore its offerings and contribute to its expanding global dialogue on literature. More information and access to the current issue are available at https://www.cjojms.com/index.php/research/issue/view/15.