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By Ameen Ayinla
Nigerian youths have been urged to move beyond lamentations and recommit themselves to responsible, ethical leadership and service to humanity.
The charge was given by a former Nigerian Ambassador to the Netherlands, Dr. Nimota Akanbi, at the launch of a book titled “Paradise at a Crossroads”, written by Comrade Abdulwaheed Onikanhun, held in Ilorin.
In her welcome address, Dr. Akanbi said the book raises fundamental questions that resonate beyond Nigeria’s present circumstances, challenging citizens to reflect on where the nation stands and the direction it is prepared to take.
She noted that the book underscores the need for a defining moment in Nigeria’s history—one that demands courage, honesty, and a return to core values.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chairman of the occasion, Engineer Adeyemi Balogun, represented by the Special Adviser to the Kwara State Governor on Digital Matters, Mr. Ishola Kayode, described the book as a catalyst for national conversation.
He said it interrogates Nigeria’s past and present while pointing clearly to where the nation must head.
Engineer Balogun noted that Nigeria is richly endowed with human capital and youthful energy, yet stands like a traveller at a crossroads confronted with critical choices.
He stressed that at the heart of these choices are citizens’ values and the ballot, which he described as the foundation for sustainable development.
In his review of the book, Professor Abdullahi Ali Arazeem of the Department of Criminology and Security Studies, University of Ilorin, said the publication mirrors Nigeria’s national journey—its trials, failures, and the urgent need for redemption.
He added that the book examines how a nation once hailed as the “Giant of Africa” lost its fortunes, while emphasizing that focused reforms and collective will can still restore its potential.
Earlier, the author, Comrade Abdulwaheed Onikanhun, expressed gratitude to guests for the large turnout and for honouring him at the event.
Also speaking, the Chief of Staff to the Minister of Youth, Mallam Funsho Abdullahi, said the book captures Nigeria’s current reality—a crossroads between hope and renewal, and between a wasted generation and the most productive youth force.
He noted that Nigeria’s over 130 million youths represent possibilities for growth and innovation, not problems, if properly harnessed.
Dignitaries at the event included a representative of the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari, senior government officials, Islamic clerics, university lecturers, and captains of industry from within and outside Kwara State.
The event also featured cultural performances and the formal launch of the book.
Editing: Abdullahi Ahmed
