Known as the “Giant of Africa,” Nigeria is without doubt a country of immense natural and human resources. It has, however, managed to remain hardly more than a gnome. After decades of debilitating military dictatorship and the demise of another “messiah of the land,” General Sani Abacha, there is hope for a better future. The sleeping giant finally aspires to impact the lives of not only its citizens, but also those of other countries.

In his book, Ojo-Ade addresses various issues concerning Nigeria. These include the notion of democracy, religion, sports as an emerging symbol of unity and progress, and the role that the military, politicians, and academics have played in the country. Other topics covered are the lives and times of leaders such as Ahmadu Bello, Obafemi Awolowo, and Nnamdi Azikiwe. Finally, Ojo-Ade examines the country’s education system as a symptom of a nation filled with corruption and explores the leadership of Sani Abacha and the annulled election of Moshood Abiola.

This book is a must read for those interested in understanding the Nigerian dilemma.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Femi Ojo-Ade, a Nigerian, is currently Professor of French at St. Mary’s College of Maryland. He was formerly chair of the Department of Foreign Languages at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. A vastly published international scholar in Black literature and culture, he is also a creative writer.

CATEGORY
Politics, Current Affairs/AFRICA