Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed optimism about Nigeria during his 88th birthday and book launch, urging Africa to fully shed the remnants of colonialism and slavery for true progress. His new books emphasize Africa’s historical struggles, while discussions highlighted the prevalence of modern slavery, calling for a second independence focused on decolonization.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed profound optimism regarding Nigeria’s future while addressing the residues of colonialism and slavery during his 88th birthday celebration and book launch at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta. He emphasized that Africa must fully extricate itself from the remnants of its past to realize progress, cautioning against the potential for re-enslavement.
Obasanjo unveiled his new works, “Lest We Forget: Slavery, Slave Trade, Emancipation and Reparation” and “Nigeria: Past and Future.” He articulated that the continent’s lingering issues are intricately linked to historical injustices, underscoring the need for collective reflection and action to confront these challenges.
He asserted, “I am an incurable optimist about Nigeria. Yes, the situation is bad no doubt, but I believe that in my lifetime, we will have a Nigerian that we will be proud of.” His sentiments were echoed by Dapo Abiodun’s deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who acknowledged Obasanjo as a vital influence in the pursuit of pan-Africanism.
During the event, Eghosa Osaghae, Director-General of the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs, highlighted the alarming statistics of modern slavery in Africa, revealing that over 12.5 million individuals are currently enslaved. He called for a “second independence” emphasizing the need for a significant decolonization process.
Osaghae proclaimed, “We need a second independence, it is the independence of meaningful decolonisation where we will finally confront the devils of colonisation.” The event was attended by notable politicians and dignitaries, underscoring the topic’s significance in contemporary discourse.
In conclusion, Olusegun Obasanjo’s reflections during his birthday celebration illuminate the pressing need for Africa to break free from the remnants of colonialism and slavery. His optimism for Nigeria’s future stands in stark contrast to the continent’s current struggles with modern slavery. Both Obasanjo and Osaghae advocate for meaningful decolonization as a pathway to true independence, underscoring the importance of collective action among African nations.
Original Source: dailypost.ng
