Professor Isaac Olawale Albert, a distinguished scholar from the Institute of African Studies at the University of Ibadan, has remarked that Nigeria has relinquished its title as the “giant of Africa.” The statement was made during a public lecture honoring Prof. Adelaja Odukoya of the University of Lagos.
Albert commented on universities drifting from their historical role of challenging political leaders with the truth. His concerns about Nigeria’s trajectory drew parallels to the situations in Somalia and Libya, warning of a potential system collapse if existing issues are not addressed.
Albert, who spoke on the topic: ‘Nigeria’s development challenges: which way forward?’ threw the question to the audience who responded that Nigeria is the giant of Africa.
“In the last 10 years, we have ceased to be the giant of Africa. In fact, people from other African countries have been insulting Nigeria.”
“We know the problems and those responsible for it, but what we don’t know is the solution. We may find ourselves in the same position as Somalia and Libya if Nigeria remains with the unresolved problems.”
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“Those who are smiling today will suffer tomorrow. Those in government have a lot to lose if the system collapses. The system is gradually collapsing,” he said.
With the opinion that politicians are primarily self-serving and a select few dominating the political landscape, Albert calls attention to the risk of people resisting the current status quo.
Chairman of the lecture, Prof. Adele Jinadu, reinforced the essential role of universities in offering alternative societal perspectives and commended the perseverance of academic and civil voices against oppressive policies.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Folasade Ogunsola praised the birthday celebrant, Prof. Odukoya, for his unwavering dedication to education and his influence on peers and students at the University of Lagos.
