By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Preparations for the 60th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence in 1960 are already in top gear and one of the anticipated activities is the unveiling of a book titled Nigeria @60: 60 Foremost Nigerians in the Last 60 Years.
The book, which is authored by celebrity journalist and author, Mr Lanre Alfred, has been endorsed by the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) on behalf of the federal government of Nigeria.
Director-General of NCAC, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, said the book was of significant historical and cultural value to this generation, especially as Nigeria counts down to her 60th anniversary.
“The book is a transgenerational effort that is in tandem with the federal government’s appreciation of the need for proper documentation in enduring forms, significant events of our chequered history and the roles of outstanding men and women who created history,” Mr Runsewe stated.
Speaking on the essence of the book, Mr Alfred said Nigeria is a nation guilty of not keeping data, which has, over the years, led to the distortion of Nigeria’s history.
“As Nigeria turns 60 this year, it behoves on us, therefore, to record and recall for posterity, historians and today’s youth who are bereft of quality role models the inspiring exploits and attainments of Nigeria’s foremost citizens of the last six decades while documenting and highlighting their outstanding resilience and perseverance in their ambitious dash for honour and progress in the face of daunting political and socio-economic odds,” the author said.
Mr Alfred said further that he finds it particularly inspiring and instructive to share the story of Nigeria’s heroes past and present with this generation which has so much to learn from their enviable professional and personal trajectories.
He affirmed that the book would be out in October to commemorate the diamond jubilee of Nigeria and will be made available to libraries and higher institutions across the country.
Mr Alfred is the former Society Editor at Thisday Newspapers.
The widely-travelled journalist is also the publisher of the popular coffee table books like Titans…The Amazing Exploits of Nigeria’s Greatest Achievers and Highlife – Lifestyles of Nigeria’s Rich and Famous.
He also authored biographies like Pacemaker – Triumphs of Igho Sanomi at 40, The Lion of Afia Nsit – Triumphs of Scott Tommey at 45, Julius Rone…The Jewel of the Delta and Dapo Abiodun…The Heart of Prince.
