My Experience as the Benue Hilltop Creative Arts Foundation Chairman
Before now, as a student of Sociology and Anthropology at the university, I never imagined I would find myself thriving in the literary space. I wasn’t studying English or Literature, and for a long time, that shaped my assumptions about what I could or could not do. But stepping into the world of writing—supported by my sociological background and commitment to consistency—made things gradually easier. Balancing academic life with literary work has not been easy, especially while serving as the Benue Chairman of a creative arts foundation in Nigeria.
How I Entered the World of Writing and the Creative Arts Foundation in Nigeria
Writing sociological articles and literary pieces quickly became one of my passions. Through this passion, I connected with Applied Worldwide in the USA, which became a second home for me. My love for sociology has been unwavering since I began studying it, and I have always viewed and analyzed the world through a distinct lens.
Meeting Hilltop: The Creative Arts Foundation in Nigeria Changing Young Lives
My dedication to literature eventually led me to the Hilltop Creative Arts Foundation, a well-known creative arts foundation in Nigeria. Founded by B. M. Dzukogi—the pioneer Director-General of the Niger State Book Development Agency—the foundation began in Minna in 2004 and has shaped countless young writers across the country.
Dzukogi has published works across multiple genres: poetry, short stories, essays, interviews, children’s literature, and aphorisms. His initiatives expanded beyond Minna, influencing Nigeria’s literary landscape through programs such as:
- Annual Schools Carnival of Arts and Festival of Songs
- Nigerian Writers Series
- Minna Literary Series
- MBA International Literary Colloquium
- National Teen Authorship Scheme
- Book Hawker Project
- HIASFEST
- The Nigeria Review
- Literature Voices
- The Blue Resolution Initiatives
He also pioneered the Niger State Book and Intellectual Resources Development Agency and currently chairs the Northern Nigeria Writers’ Summit.
The Mission Behind Nigeria’s Leading Youth Creative Arts Foundation
Hilltop Creative Arts Foundation is a registered NGO and one of the first of its kind dedicated to discovering young creative talent from primary school through university. The foundation manages the Hilltop Art Centre, mentoring young people in:
- Creative writing
- Painting and performance
- Reading culture
- Photography
- Music and language competence
- Broadcasting
- Leadership and citizenship
- Career development
As a creative arts foundation in Nigeria, Hilltop relies on donors, writers, art lovers, and community partners to support its programs.
Becoming Benue Chairman of a Creative Arts Foundation in Nigeria
I joined the foundation more than three years ago and was, at the time, its only member from Benue State. When the founder called for the establishment of branches across all 36 states, I was selected to chair the Benue branch. My responsibilities included appointing a Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, and Public Relations Officer—along with gathering new members for the inauguration.
This process was not easy, but I managed to secure committed individuals. We fixed the inauguration date for January 16, 2021, and began preparations. A representative from the headquarters in Minna traveled down to Benue with gifts and messages of support.
Inside Our Hilltop Inauguration: A Celebration of Creativity and Community
The inauguration took place at District 4 Lounge in Makurdi at 3 p.m. Members arrived early to arrange the venue, and we were honored by several distinguished guests:
- Dr. Simon Shachia Oryila, Department of English, Benue State University — our branch advisor and mentor
- Carl Terver, Assistant Digital Editor of Praxis Magazine
- Oko Owi Ocho, Creative Director of the Benue Poetry Troupe
- Mrs. Tsavnande Elizabeth, Principal of Government Girls College Makurdi
- Muhammad Yunus, coordinator of all 36 Hilltop branches, representing the founder
WADATA TV, a community-based media organization, was present to record and broadcast the event live. My friend Sulaiman Haruna of Dlight Photography was also there, capturing important moments.
Presentations, Performances, and Panel Discussions
The ceremony opened with the second stanza of the Nigerian National Anthem, followed by recognition of guests. As Chairman, I gave brief remarks on the purpose of the gathering before introducing the President of WADATA TV and the new Benue Hilltop members.
Muhammad Yunus shared the history of Hilltop Creative Arts Foundation, concluding with a goodwill message from B. M. Dzukogi. Afterwards, a panel discussion featuring Dr. Shachia, Carl Terver, and Oko Owi Ocho explored The Role of Art in Contemporary Nigeria. Their insights were inspiring and reaffirmed the mission of the creative arts foundation in Nigeria.
We also hosted spoken word and poetry performances, including a poem dedicated to B. M. Dzukogi. Creative games followed, along with goodwill messages, and finally the official oath-taking ceremony for members and the executive council.
What Leadership in a Creative Arts Foundation Has Taught Me
The event closed with a vote of thanks delivered by Torkwase Biam, the Vice Chairman of the Benue branch, followed by the National Pledge. For me, the experience was both humbling and life-changing.
Leadership is demanding—it requires patience, humility, hard work, and persistence. This was my first experience holding such a position, and it taught me invaluable lessons. I encourage Nigerian youth to remain focused, determined, and committed to their goals. Nothing good comes easily; every meaningful achievement demands effort.
