•Dickson, Okonkwo, Shehu preach fiscal federalism •Kalu, Ukeh harp on teaching of history in schools
From Fred Itua, Paulinus Aidoghie, Ndubuisi Orji and Okwe Obi, Abuja
Former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, members of the National Assembly and top technocrats, yesterday, bemoaned the many woes bedevilling the country.
They spoke in Abuja during the official launch of a book titled “The Making of Modern Nigeria: From Pre-Colonial Era Till Date”, published by The Sun.
Abdulsalami said in a few days, the country would mark its 63rd independence anniversary, noting that it had been 63 years of continuous efforts at making the country better, and for Nigeria, as a nation, to achieve its full potential.
The new book, a sequel to an earlier one published by The Sun entitled, ‘The Golden Book” to commemorate Nigeria’s 50th independence anniversary in 2010 is the story of Nigeria’s journey to nationhood, chronicling the political, cultural, social and economic evolution of Nigeria.
Primed as part of the contribution to celebrate the nation’s 63rd independence anniversary, the 332-page book is grouped into six sections with 16 chapters.
The former military leader, who was chairman of the occasion, said although the country had been through a lot, the future was bright.
“The good news is that we have all it takes to surmount our challenges and press forward for a better Nigeria. To make this happen, all hands must be on deck to change our trajectory and make it possible for Nigeria to have its pride of place in the comity of nations,” Abubakar said.
Abdulsalami further said a necessary first step for the much-desired progress was to examine how the past was charted.
“This is where the book we are unveiling today, The Making of Modern Nigeria – From Pre Colonial Era Till Date, becomes auspicious. When we know about Nigeria, we will have invaluable insights to understanding the present-day challenges and the way out of the quagmire. Doing so uncannily reminds us of the exhortation of the great Chinese philosopher, Confucius: ‘Study the past if you must define the present.’
“Knowing Nigeria’s rich past and its present will serve as a springboard for us to work for the realisation of a Nigeria of our collective aspirations and dreams in the not distant future. I believe that the Nigeria of our dream is possible when we contribute our quota with every sense of patriotism and nationalism.
“It is commendable that this book is dedicated to Nigeria’s founding fathers and those who believe that some good will still come out of the country. Our generation has played its part for the making of a modern Nigeria. The future belongs to the rising generation. It is, therefore, for todays and future generations to play their roles for the making of a supersonic Nigeria.”
He also said every effort at chronicling Nigeria’s past was, in itself, a tour de force of what was, what is, and what can be. He noted that Nigeria was a notable beacon of hope for the black race in the pre-independence era, adding that its achievement of independence on October 1, 1960, was both inspirational and reassuring for a host of Africa countries and, indeed, the larger global community.
“Post independence Nigeria has continued to struggle for enduring success in an increasingly complex and competitive world. It behoves on each and every one of us as Nigerians and friends of Nigeria to join hands in making Nigeria better and greater. This we can do by ensuring peace reigns in our country, being each other’s keeper. We should also support our security agencies in whatever way we can.
“The Sun Publishing Company, by this book, that we are here to unveil, has played its own part creditably. It is left for us here and those not here to not only acquire the book, but also read it, in order to understand Nigeria and Nigerians. I have no hesitation, whatsoever, to commend this book to you,” Abubakar further said.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abass, in his remarks, said the launch of the book wouldn’t have come at a better time than this, when young Nigerians have begun the quest for inclusion in leadership.
Represented by the Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Media, Philip Agbese, the Speaker noted: “I am pleased to felicitate with the Management team of The Sun Publishing Limited on the launch of this landmark book: “The Making of Modern Nigeria: From Pre-Colonial Era to Date.” This is considered to be an incredible piece of well-researched work to enrich the literature and fill the gaps in the chronicle of the Nigerian story. It is surely a contribution to shape the political knowledge of our journey to nationhood.
“The book showcases and details the intricacies of Nigeria’s journey from pre-colonial to contemporary epochs of nation-building and provides a comprehensive insight into Nigeria’s social, economic and political trajectory.
“I commend the management of The Sun Newspaper Limited for this great contribution to knowledge. It is a ready resource for policy makers, academics and students of Nigerian political history.
“This public presentation would not have come at a better time as young Nigerians have begun the quest for participation and inclusion in governance. Such a quest and enthusiasm should have tools to guide and direct them. This book is a great material to fill that vacuum.
“On this note, I once again congratulate you for the book and commend it to all public and private institutions, including the members of the 10th House of Representatives.”
•Nothing has changed since Obasanjo, Jonathan’s national conferences – Uzodimma
Uzodimma said despite the National Political Reform Conference (NPRC) organised by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2005 and the 2014 national conference by former President Goodluck Jonathan to address the country’s problem, nothing had changed.
He said the socio-economic benefits of staying together as one country outstripped the marginal benefits of parting ways.
“It is far more beautiful and rewarding to belong to a larger union. I share the belief that the unity of Nigeria is non-negotiable,” he said.
Represented by his Deputy, Professor Placid Njoku, he said: “In 2005, President Olusegun Obasanjo convened the National Political Reform Conference (NPRC). The aim of the conference, which included members from different regions and sectors of the country, was to negotiate the framework for Nigeria’s existence as a nation.
“The conference essentially agreed on 187 out of 189 subjects deliberated upon, but tellingly failed to find common grounds on the subjects of resource control and the tenure of the president and governors. I’m sure by now you can see that just like in 1949, when Zik addressed the Igbo State Union in Aba, self-determination and resource control go hand in glove. And to this day, we have not resolved them.
“In 2014, President Goodluck Jonathan, following much agitation, convened the National Conference. Delegates were drawn from states (through senatorial zones), political parties, professional groups, the less privileged, civil society, etc. The conference recommended some consequential adjustments to the polity, which many believe could correct the foundational defects of the Nigerian nation.
“Unfortunately, the recommendations have yet to see the light of day. All these attempts are palatable, but each fails to satiate the hunger for self-determination within a Federal Republic of Nigeria. I have not seen any compelling evidence to suggest that any section of Nigeria wants to secede for the sake of it.
“Indeed, there is no merit in that. I have continued to argue that the socio-economic benefits of staying together far outstrip the marginal and rather uncertain benefits of parting ways. It is far more beautiful and rewarding to belong to a larger union. I share the belief that the unity of Nigeria is non-negotiable.
“However, I also strongly believe that we need to do what we should have done at the very beginning. This includes determining how we would like to co-exist, and we agree on what kind of nation we want in the first place, before we belabour in building it. It is time to quit blaming the British.
“When we assumed the status of a republic in 1963, the remote control in the hands of Nigerians set the tone for our nation. Incidentally, those who had clamoured for self-determination along ethnic lines, prior to independence, took over power. I think that was the best moment for such discussions among all the composite identities that make up Nigeria. That was the best time to decide our own destiny as a people. That was the best time to determine how to live together. Unfortunately, it never happened.
“We had another shot in 2014. Hence, we are yet to see any consequential action. Indeed, the main impediment or challenge of nation building in Nigeria can be said to be the political will to do the needful. And the “needful” is quite clear from where I stand: the peoples of Nigeria, as equal entities, should have more power devolved to them as federating units. This will make the struggle for power at the centre less combative and inflammable.
“I strongly support a true federal arrangement that will ensure a level playing field for all ethnic nationalities in Nigeria and guarantee justice and equity. As a matter of urgency, we should facilitate discussions along these lines. This can be achieved either through another national conference or, for a start, by the adoption of the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference.”
He, however said, “a new Nigeria, where citizens have unfettered freedom to realise their God-given potential, is possible. A new Nigeria, where our different peoples can live together as one nation bound by law, to accommodate and respect each other as brothers and sisters, is possible.”
•Dickson, Okonkwo, Shehu, proffer solutions
Former Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson, former spokesperson to President Muhammadu Buhari, Garba Shehu, and Chairman, United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, have proffered solutions to the challenges plaguing Nigeria.
Dickson, who blamed the country’s problems on leadership and the lack of justice and equity for marginalised ethnic groups, said the government and those at the helm of affairs must be sincere in the discharge of their duties.
The lawmaker charged Nigerians not to be distressed by the problem and added that most countries that are celebrated today were mere geographical expressions without any substantial evidence of progress.
He said: “There is no gainsaying that our nation is not perfect. But my fellow country men and women, do not despair when people say or when you, sometimes, feel that your nation is not perfect. No nation under the sun is perfect. Secondly, do not also despair when, sometimes, people say our country is a geographical expression and we are not yet a nation.
“The making of a new Nigeria itself is a work in progress, and it is a call to duty. It is for us to do what is right and what is fair and what is in the national interest. Can we build a nation? Yes, we can. There is no nation in the world that is not a geographical expression.
“All the great nations today are products of history, historical accidents. Almost all of them were colonised at one point or the other by a colonial master. Nations are about people who have shared vision, dreams and what should be in the collective interest of everybody and not against one section.
“I do not think we are at that point. The leadership of this country is more of a problem than even the people. But if you get into leadership and you are not sincere about national integration and unity, then there is a problem.
“When Nigerian leaders meet, they talk about unity and love, but they forget to talk about justice. They forget to talk about equity; common rules for everyone. A nation is not only for the strong, but for all. We are not yet at that point.”
Shehu said it was not enough for citizens to complain, but that those who fought for the unity of Nigeria should be celebrated. He added that those who have attained certain feats in their careers should devote time to teach the younger ones how to succeed and grow.
“It is not just the history of the civil war. We have to talk about our very differences and celebrate our unsung heroes and heroines, whose true stories have been buried in our history books. As to say, in addition to all that the keynote speaker has enumerated, nation-building should become a dialogue. And that every citizen is involved, associated with.
“It is said people who have achieved certain feats in society—professionals, engineers, doctors and all of that, maybe they can give a bit of their time to teach in schools. And to, also, suggest that our startups should give back their skills to the society, scientific achievements should be shared. It should go round and it should be at the disposal of the nation.”
On his part, Okonkwo said he believed in a united Nigeria, adding that the success of the country can only be achieved through practical steps and deliberate intentions by patriots.
“I believe in a united Nigeria, that is why the name of my airplane is United Nigeria. We believe we can achieve that unity. Can we really make progress in a country where there is no equality and fairness? I am an optimist. I believe in the unity of Nigeria. We cannot achieve a nation by magic.
“It can only be by practical steps, actions and deliberate intentions to unite everybody under one roof, with a sense of commitment, equality and patriotism. A call for Nigeria means everything to use. We have had that in the beginning when a Hausa man was a mayor in Enugu, and an Igbo man a mayor in Port Harcourt.”
•Nigeria’s history crucial to its future – Neya Kalu
Chairman, The Sun Publishing Limited, Ms Neya Kalu, said the making of a new Nigeria is tied to the knowledge of the past.
She explained that the book chronicles the country’s past, noting that Nigerians are resilient people and, also, determined to succeed.
“Nigeria is a land of great diversity. We are a nation of entrepreneurs, innovators and dreamers. We are a people who are resilient and determined to succeed. Today, we come together to honour a group of people, who have dared to dream. Who have woven words into a tapestry of history and emotions.
“The making of a new Nigeria cannot begin without taking note of our history, and this is what this book is created to achieve. We take you through Nigeria’s journey in her former years and how that has influenced her in the latter years.
“In the pages of this book, we will find heroes from the public and private institutions, politics, sports, education and the arts. Perhaps, a reflection of our own hopes, fears and dreams.”
•Our children deserve to learn history in schools –Ukeh
Managing Director of The Sun Publishing Limited, Onuoha Ukeh, said Nigerian children deserve to learn about the history of the country in schools. He stated that the knowledge of the country’s history will enable students as leaders of tomorrow for the future.
The Sun boss, while expressing delight over the reintroduction of history in schools, emphasised the need for history to be made a compulsory course in higher institutions.
He said: “We are happy that the baby conceived three years ago is finally born. The project was completed late last year and the book printed early this year. Due to the preparations for the general election and the conduct of the elections, we had to delay the public presentation until now.
“This book is a work that tells the Nigerian story, highlighting different aspects of our national life. It talks about events, people, institutions and places. It is a book on Nigeria by Nigerians.
“We are happy that students of two secondary schools are here to be part of the public presentation of the book. They are our special guests because we believe that our children should know the country’s history. If our children do not know Nigeria’s history, they would not know where we are coming from, and it may be difficult for them to easily chart the route to where we are going as a nation. Our children and students deserve to learn history in schools and at home, too.
“Many of us in this hall would remember the school days when we learnt about the Oyo Empire and the Oyo Mesi, Queen Amina of Zaria, King Jaja of Opobo, Nana of Itsekiri, Benin Kingdom and the story of Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi, Kanem Bornu Empire, Sokoto Caliphate, Nri Kingdom, the Aro Confederacy, the Ibom Kingdom and others.
“We knew many things about the country, about the cultures and traditions. We knew that a form of government existed in many Nigerian kingdoms and empires, with all the components of governance, before the coming of the colonialists. We knew that Nigeria was not a place without form before the colonial masters came. We knew that kingdoms and empires existed and later made up what is known today as Nigeria.
“Thankfully, history as a subject is back in the curriculum of Nigerian schools. The earlier suspension of the subject could have made our children have limited knowledge of our history. The study of history is an education on a tribe, country, the people and traditions.
“No matter how dark a people’s history may be at any particular time, and the fear that its remembrance could affect national peace and cohesion, the children should know the history generally.
“Countries with worse historical challenges teach history in their schools. It is, therefore, good that Nigeria has reintroduced history. If students avoided the subject in the past, one way for it to stay and flourish is to make it compulsory in all years in junior secondary school, and then optional in senior secondary. That way, nobody would pass through secondary school without offering the subject at one time or another. In the university, Nigerian history should also be a compulsory General Studies (GNS) for all courses in first year.
“This book, The Making of Modern Nigeria – From Pre-colonial Era Till Date, is for general use, research and for teaching. After reading the book, our children would be inspired by the fact that there was a time when vehicles were manufactured in Nigeria – Peugeot, Volkswagen, etc. Reading the book, they would be proud that a Nigerian woman once won the Miss World – Agbani Darego.
“Reading the book, they would aspire to be like that Nigerian, who, in 1989, won the Gordon Bell Prize for his computing applications that used a new mathematical form and process – Philip Emeagwali. Reading the book, they would understand more about the cultural heritage of the Nigerian people, knowing tourist and historic sites.
“Reading the book, they would fully appreciate the struggle for independence, the people who played some critical roles, the past and the present. It is our humble contribution to scholarship and history. We highly recommend this book to us.”
•Nigeria must use its past to build future –Atkinson
Deputy British High Commissioner, Gill Atkinson, advised the leadership of Nigeria to use the occurrences of the past to build bright future.
Noting that no nation can escape history, she said history influences the life of people, who we are, what we do how we behave, past and present deep and intertwined.
“British or Nigerian cannot escape history. History’s influence profound, who we are, what we do how we behave. Past and present deep and intertwined
“British History in Nigeria not easy. Then Prince of Wales now HM King Charles III said at the Commonwealth conference in 2022
“To unlock the power of our common future we must also acknowledge the wrongs which have shaped our past. Many of those wrongs belong to an earlier age with different – and in some ways lesser – values.
“Or while we strive together for peace prosperity and democracy I want to acknowledge that the roots of our contemporary association run deep into the most painful period of our history.”