By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
DISCUSSIONS ON Nigeria’s history and the enduring impact of slavery will take centre stage today in Abeokuta, Ogun State, as former President Olusegun Obasanjo publicly presents two new books to mark his 88th birthday.
The books — Lest We Forget: Slavery, Slave Trade, Emancipation, and Reparation and Nigeria: Past and the Future — will be formally launched at an event to be attended by dignitaries, including former presidents and foreign leaders.
A public lecture, Echoes of the Past, Visions of the Future: Reflections on Slavery and Colonisation, and Nigeria’s Journey Towards a Promising Future, will be delivered by Professor Eghosa Osaghae, the Director General of the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs (NIIA).
The discussion will explore the historical consequences of slavery and colonisation and their lasting effects on Nigeria’s development.
Obasanjo’s media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, confirmed in a statement that the event will feature performances by children, cultural displays, and goodwill messages.
Among the special guests is His Majesty, King Mswati III, Ngwenyama of Eswatini, who will serve as the Royal Father of the Day.
The statement notes that the occasion is expected to draw a host of national and international figures, including ex-presidents Goodluck Jonathan, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Ernest Bai Koroma, and political leaders from across Africa.
