In the wake of the outcry of accusations of sectionalism and nepotistic appointments against the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration, which has in some ways ignited a threat to Nigeria’s unity and coexistence in one political space and as one indivisible people, the topic for discussion in this year’s edition of the Wole Soyinka Lecture Series, is now more critical than ever to the political, social and economic growth of Nigeria. Notably, the recent uproar generated by the nomination of Mrs Opunimi Akinkugbe for an ambassadorial position has brought to the fore once again, the age-long question regarding the benefits of practices like the State Indigene, Federal Character and Quota System as against capability, competence, equitable distribution of resources, equal opportunity, residency and the culture of acceptance and assimilation. Comparative narratives of the experience of citizens in diaspora prove that the integration of diverse people is the bedrock of Nationalism and true Federalism and drives socio-economic development in a society. However, successful national integration requires dialogue with all stakeholders and policy implementation that are aimed at addressing the reduction of regional inequality and restiveness occasioned by the fear and realities of alienation. How do we change this trajectory and reposition Nigeria for greatness?

This lecture series is a clarion call to dialogue, share experiences and network on the transformation of Nigeria. We need to identify and institute a path that enthrones the culture of competence over quota system and regional favouritism.

The 23rd Wole Soyinka Lecture Series is scheduled to hold on a virtual platform, leveraging on the Wole Soyinka Digital Dialogue, on 31st July 2020 by 14.00 Hours (2pm) GMT. Prof Cyril Abobo, an infectious and Immunological Diseases Expert with Texas Southern University, USA is the keynote speaker while discussants include Ms Kadaria Ahmed, renowned broadcaster and journalist, Prof ‘Femi Odekunle, a defense and security expert, Ms Annkio Briggs, Environmental and Human Rights Activist and Ejiro Umukoro, another renowned broadcaster and journalist will serve as the moderator.

The Wole Soyinka Lecture Series was founded in 1994 by the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) to provide a platform for national and global intellectual discourse and proffer solutions to critical problems impeding democratic growth and socioeconomic development, particularly in Nigeria and the world in general. Since its inception, the WSLS has hosted Twenty-Two lectures in three continents of the world (Africa, Europe and North America) with notable and distinguished speakers from around the world delivering key lectures and leading discussions. The Wole Soyinka Lecture Series is symptomatic of the intellectual bent of the organisers – the National Association of Seadogs, which is equally indicative of the person of Professor Wole Soyinka and the charismatic leadership that he has provided for decades. Founding this forum where solutions are proffered to critical problems facing humanity, and using a global figure as a rallying point, speaks volumes of the direction of the Association’s community causes and the adoption of a multi-tactical approach to the realization of our dreams for a better world.

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An eminent African leader to be announced soon will be delivering a lecture on the theme: Democracy, Good Governance and Development in Africa – The Need for Effective and Visionary Leadership.

The last lecture which was the 18th in the series, held on 12th June 2015 at Greenbelt Marriott Hotel, Washington DC, United States. The keynote speaker was (Dr.) Robin Renee Sanders, Former US Ambassador to Nigeria and CEO-FEEEDS Advocacy Initiative. She spoke on: Imperatives of Building Strong Africa Democracies & Spurring Economic Development: “Frameworks in the New African Security Context”. Read the full text of the lecture here. Other speakers at the event included Prof Okey Ndibe. For details about the 18th Wole Soyinake Lecture, click here.

The Wole Soyinka Lecture Series is a conception of the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity), the lecture series is dedicated to honouring one of Nigeria and Africa’s most outstanding  literary icons and enduring social activist and human rights campaigner. According to Prince Ifeanyi Onochie, NAS Capn of the National Association of Seadogs Pyrates Confraternity, “The Wole Soyinka Lecture Series was established with the cardinal aim of promoting good governance, social justice and the advancement of democratic ideals locally in Nigeria and globally across all nations; on the principle that by highlighting issues and challenges individuals and governments face in delivering good, responsible and accountable governance, and providing a platform for their evaluation and discussion, clear, practical and internationally acceptable solutions and intervention strategies can be developed, which will, in turn, guarantee that through efficient and effective service delivery, nation-states can incrementally enhance citizen welfare, improve living standards and protect the rights to life and property of the most vulnerable members of society.“

More information on the event as well as the keynote will be published in due course. To stay updated, please sign up for our newsletter.

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