Obasanjo’s Optimism and Call for Africa’s Decolonization

Olusegun Obasanjo expresses optimism about Nigeria’s future while underlining the need for Africa to overcome the residues of slavery and colonialism. He launched two books during his 88th birthday, focusing on the continent’s painful history. Key leaders emphasized the importance of collective action and decolonization to achieve true liberation.

On the occasion of his 88th birthday and book launch, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed his optimism regarding Nigeria’s future. He emphasized that Africa must fully shed the remnants of slavery and colonialism to achieve meaningful progress. Obasanjo lamented that despite not having recovered from the impacts of the slave trade, it is crucial for the continent to remember its painful history to avoid a repeat of past injustices.

During the event held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Obasanjo unveiled two books: “Lest We Forget: Slavery, Slave Trade, Emancipation and Reparation” and “Nigeria: Past and Future.” He articulated that the effects of slavery still loom over Africa and that true liberation can only occur when the continent collectively addresses its historical injustices. He stated, “Part of our problems in Africa… is residues of slave trade, slavery and colonialism and until we can break ourselves completely away from it, we may not be able to make progress as we should do.”

Obasanjo also highlighted the need for Africans to confront the past, noting that forgetting it could lead to future enslavement. He remained hopeful, asserting, “For me, 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.”

Governor Dapo Abiodun’s Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, honored Obasanjo as a significant figure in the pan-African movement. Meanwhile, Eghosa Osaghae, from the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs, noted that approximately 12.5 million individuals in Africa are presently trapped in modern slavery, constituting about 60 percent of the global enslaved population. He argued for a second independence characterized by meaningful decolonization to confront the remnants of colonialism effectively.

Osaghae stated, “We need a second independence, it is the independence of meaningful decolonisation where we will finally confront the devils of colonialisation and insist that Africa is our own.” He asserted that collective action amongst Africans is essential for achieving true liberation. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including notable politicians and traditional leaders, emphasizing the importance of the discussions initiated during the gathering.

In summary, Olusegun Obasanjo’s remarks during his birthday celebration highlight the urgent need for Africa to confront its history of slavery and colonialism to foster genuine progress. His message of optimism for Nigeria’s future contrasts with the ongoing challenges but emphasizes collective action towards decolonization. The event underscored the critical discussions on liberation, with insights from various leaders underlining the necessity of confronting Africa’s past to secure a promising future.

Original Source: dailypost.ng