- As a author urges revival of reading culture
By Paul Effiong, Abuja
A new book titled Africa at a Glance was officially unveiled at the weekend during a public presentation held at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the representative of the Chairman, Ambassador Jameel Waziri, Dr Rukkaiyatu Bashir Ribadu, commended the author, Mr Joseph Maziri Andefiki, for producing a work that tells the story of Africa from an authentic African perspective.
According to her, for far too long, the narrative about Africa has been shaped by outsiders, stressing that it was time for Africans to reclaim and document their own history and identity.
“For a long time, Africa’s story has been told by external sources. As the popular African proverb says, ‘Until the lion learns to write its own story, every tale will continue to glorify the hunter,’” she remarked.
Dr Ribadu praised the author for taking the initiative to present Africa’s story through the eyes of an African, expressing confidence that the book would help the global community better appreciate the continent’s rich cultural heritage, enduring values and immense natural and human resources.
She further noted that the publication would inspire more Nigerians and African writers to document the continent’s history and achievements, despite concerns over the declining reading culture.
“This work should encourage other writers to continue where Mr Andefiki has started. People must continue to write, even if the reading audience appears to be shrinking, because a time will come when these efforts will receive the recognition they deserve,” she added.
Also speaking, a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Okey-Joe Onyakalusi, described the book as “a work for posterity”, saying it presents a concise but compelling overview of Africa and its vast potential.
According to the lawmaker, the publication highlights the continent’s leadership, immense human and natural resources, and abundant opportunities, while encouraging Nigerians and other Africans to write more about their heritage and the wealth with which the continent is endowed.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the book, the author, Mr Joseph Maziri Andefiki, disclosed that the idea came from his children, who encouraged him to preserve his knowledge and experiences in writing so that future generations could continue to benefit from them.
He explained that the publication was also intended to promote and sustain the reading culture in Nigeria, urging young people to cultivate the habit of reading rather than spending excessive time on social media.
Emphasising the importance of knowledge acquisition, Andefiki cited a popular saying: “If you want to gain knowledge, read; if you desire understanding, write; and if you want to achieve mastery, teach.”
He therefore called on Nigerians, particularly the younger generation, to embrace reading and writing as essential tools for personal development and national advancement.
