CurrentReport Blog Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has emphasized that Africa must fully break free from the lingering effects of slavery and colonialism in order to achieve the progress it deserves. Speaking during his 88th birthday celebration and the launch of his new books at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo warned that unless Africa confronts its dark history, it risks being re-enslaved.
Obasanjo, who unveiled his books “Lest We Forget: Slavery, Slave Trade, Emancipation and Reparation” and “Nigeria: Past and Future,” stressed that the continent has yet to recover from the scars of the transatlantic and trans-Saharan slave trades. He explained, “Until we can break ourselves completely away from [colonialism and slavery], we may not be able to make progress as we should.”
In his speech, Obasanjo urged Africans to remember the painful past, stating that forgetting would not only continue the suffering but may lead to a future of re-enslavement. He called for a collective effort across Africa to shed the remnants of its colonial history, noting that this was essential to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past.
Echoing Obasanjo’s sentiments, Eghosa Osaghae, Director-General of the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs, highlighted the stark reality of modern-day slavery, revealing that over 12.5 million people in Africa are currently trapped in slavery, constituting 60% of the global total. He called for a “second independence” for Africa—a comprehensive decolonization that would empower Africans to confront the remnants of colonialism.
The event, attended by several dignitaries, including Governors Ademola Adeleke and Dapo Abiodun, former governors, and prominent figures like Peter Obi and Yusuf Datti-Ahmed, also emphasized the need for a united front to achieve true liberation for Africa.
Obasanjo remains an optimist, believing that despite Nigeria’s current challenges, a brighter future lies ahead for the country and the continent at large. His remarks and new books reflect his enduring commitment to African unity and progress.
