BY JAPHET ALAKAM & PRISCA SAM-DURU

Judging by the decency and simplicity that graced Femi Onasanya’s book presentation recently at the Function Hall of the MUSON Centre, Lagos, it will only be fair to describe the launch as unique.

The organisers, chief host and guests especially, the Chairman of the occasion and former Head of Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan; former Minister for Industry, Chief Mrs Nike Akande; former President of ICAN and Chief launcher, Mrs Adenike Adeniran and many others must be commended for sticking to time.

The book, One Missing Ingredient is a well defined piece with consistent vivid descriptions that incorporates biblical allusions for the purpose of challenging readers into action so as to attain set objectives. In other words, it is premised on the author’s firm belief that after all efforts have been made in a specific venture or endeavours, one needs perseverance or persistence to emerging a successful person.

(L-r) Chief Ernest Shonekan, Chairman of the occasion, Femi Onasanya, the author and Mrs Adenike Adeniran during the public presentation of the book

The tone, descriptions and author’s testimonies are eloquent indication of his genuine concern for wastages in the society.

In his remarks, Shonekan who lighted up the event with humourous jokes, in his capacity as chairman of the occasion thanked all for coming to the event which was an indication of the love they have for the author and his family.

Shonekan who was not happy with the recent ugly developments in United Kingdom where a former governor of a State in Nigeria was jailed and another Nigerian girl sentenced stated that “we are not here to celebrate somebody who has done something bad but rather to celebrate somebody who has done a good thing by writing a book.”

According to him, writing  a book is not an easy task, and especially an inspirational book. It calls for commitment and dedication which the author has demonstrated. Life according to him is full of persistence and it is the author’s persistence that made him to do that.

Citing that persistence and staying focused made the likes of America to go to the moon, successful businessmen to succeed, Professors in the universities to get professorial chairs, he added that life is full of ups and down, if you fall today, you can also get up again.

Writer/Journalist Femi Akintunde-Johnson in his well articulated review titled, How to Live Your Vision, described the 63 pages book as a “Cornucopia of simple statements, ordinary ideas, common thoughts that when properly and fervently internalized will produce an extraordinary personality”, adding that what the book “lacks in volume or caressing aesthetics, it more than justifies with the persistent and pertinent desire of the writer to connect with his audience in a manner that is long-lasting and character-retooling.”

In her part, the chief launcher Mrs. Adenike Adeniran, former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN commended the author for the good work, pointing out that there is always something new in any chapter of the book.

The book launch was not without some form of entertainment as prior to its formal presentation; guests were entertained with some soul inspiring gospel songs.

Also present at the event were veteran actor Chief Justice Esiri, Mr Tunde Ayeni, Victor Odozi, Prof Ayodeji Olukoju, Vice Chancellor of Caleb University and others.