Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo highlighted the necessity for Africa to liberate itself from the lingering effects of slavery and colonialism during his 88th birthday celebration and book launch. He emphasized the importance of remembering history to avoid the risk of re-enslavement. The event also featured discussions on modern slavery and the need for meaningful decolonization in Africa, with contributions from various dignitaries.
Former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, expressed a deep-seated optimism regarding the future of Nigeria during his 88th birthday celebration and book launch at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State. He stated that Africa must fully liberate itself from the lingering effects of slavery and colonialism to achieve genuine progress. Obasanjo emphasized that forgetting the painful history of slavery would lead to the risk of re-enslavement.
At the event, Obasanjo unveiled two books titled “Lest We Forget: Slavery, Slave Trade, Emancipation and Reparation” and “Nigeria: Past and Future.” He articulated that Africa continues to grapple with the repercussions of historical injustices, which impede its advancement. He asserted, “Part of our problems in Africa is what I may call 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.”
Dapo Abiodun, the state governor represented by Deputy Noimot Salako-Oyedele, acknowledged Obasanjo as a global icon whose contributions to Africa are invaluable. Eghosa Osaghae, Director-General of the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs, highlighted that over 12.5 million individuals are currently trapped in modern slavery across Africa, representing a significant portion of the global total.
Osaghae articulated the need for a new form of independence focused on meaningful decolonization to truly liberate Africa from the remnants of colonization. He stated, “We need a second independence, it is the independence of meaningful decolonisation where we will finally confront the devils of colonisation and insist that Africa is our own.” The event gathered a diverse audience, including various dignitaries and leaders from multiple sectors.
In conclusion, Olusegun Obasanjo’s reflections on Nigeria’s future highlight a compelling need for self-liberation from colonial residues and the importance of remembering Africa’s historical struggles. His optimistic outlook underscores the belief that meaningful change is possible, contingent upon confronting the past and pursuing collective independence. The discourse at the event further emphasizes the urgency of addressing modern slavery and engaging in comprehensive decolonization efforts for the continent’s enduring prosperity.
Original Source: dailypost.ng
