Through the story of the girl-child in a third-world nation, Obalende reflects on the dynamics of the Nigerian state and its developmental challenges. The launch marks a significant moment for Nigerian literature and a celebration of the nation’s cultural richness
THE Lagos arts and literary community is set to kick-start the New Year with excitement as the former Minister of State for Finance Mr. Remi Babalola chairs the launch of Obalende: A Nation in Motion, a novel by Dr. Wale Adeduro. The event is scheduled for Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Kongi’s Harvest Arts Gallery, Freedom Park, Lagos Island. Time is 2:00pm prompt.
Described as a “breathtaking faction” that captures the essence of Lagos in the 1980s, Obalende weaves an evocative tale of nostalgia and societal reflection. According to Mr. Babalola, the novel is “a must-read for teenagers and mothers alike,” further noting,
“Written in simple yet ornamental literary expressions, the book reminisces about life on Lagos Island in the ’80s through the lens of Affiong, the adolescent protagonist. It examines the gradual erosion of societal values, replaced by anti-social norms due to leadership failures, the collapse of constitutional democracy, poor parenting, dysfunctional families, and corruption—key barriers to national development.” Also, an internationally acclaimed cultural advocate Jahman Anikulapo praised the work as “a brilliant piece of storytelling in simple, elegant prose… an invaluable addition to Nigerian literature.”
Prominent personalities, including the immediate past Managing Director/CEO of Niger Delta Power Holding Company Barr. Chiedu Ugbo are expected to grace the occasion. The event promises to bring together influential Nigerians from diverse backgrounds to celebrate this important addition to the Nigerian literary canon. Highlights will include engaging conversations with the author and lively audience interactions, creating a memorable afternoon of intellectual and historical discussions.
Dr. Adeduro, also known as Pastor WAO, is a former banker and the erstwhile Acting General Manager of the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON). An active board member of the Committee for Relevant Art (CORA) and a former columnist for The Guardian, ThisDay, Saturday Tribune, and Naija Times, Dr. Adeduro explores critical themes in this much-anticipated novel. Through the story of the girl-child in a third-world nation, Obalende reflects on the dynamics of the Nigerian state and its developmental challenges. The launch marks a significant moment for Nigerian literature and a celebration of the nation’s cultural richness.
