By Mondy Gold

Professor Yemi Osinbajo’s speech, reflecting on the journey of General Ibrahim Babangida, provides a rich historical context, exploring the complexities and contradictions within Nigeria’s political landscape. He delves into Nigeria’s past, particularly the personal narratives intertwined with the political developments, emphasizing the complex dynamics of leadership, power, and reconciliation.

A critical analysis of this speech invites several reflections on Nigeria’s current trajectory, offering insight into how well-meaning Nigerians can contribute to shaping a better future:

Key Highlights of the Speech:

1. Historical Reconciliation: Osinbajo’s reflection on the remarkable ability of Nigerian leaders to reconcile and rise above past adversities illuminates a crucial facet of the nation’s political maturity. Despite the often contentious and tumultuous history between figures like Babangida, Obasanjo, Buhari, and others, their ability to unite marks a profound manifestation of the resilience of Nigeria’s political system. This historical reconciliation, though imperfect, offers a glimmer of hope that even deeply fractured political landscapes can find common ground for the nation’s collective good.

A comparative examination reveals similar instances of reconciliation across the African continent. One notable example is the post-apartheid transformation in South Africa. The unity between Nelson Mandela and F. W. de Klerk—once bitter political adversaries—culminated in the peaceful transition to a democratic South Africa, a historic reconciliation that helped to heal the wounds of decades of apartheid. Mandela, though imprisoned for 27 years, chose to lead with a spirit of forgiveness, signaling to the world that political maturity could prevail over bitterness. Similarly, in Rwanda, the devastating 1994 genocide left the country deeply scarred, yet the leadership of Paul Kagame and the efforts of the Rwandan people to reconcile across ethnic lines have been widely recognized as an example of remarkable national healing. By fostering unity and emphasizing the importance of “Never Again,” Rwanda has become one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, while also emphasizing national dialogue to confront and learn from its tragic past.

In Kenya, after the 2007-2008 post-election violence, the country was on the brink of civil war. The political leaders, including President Mwai Kibaki and opposition leader Raila Odinga, were able to come together under the National Dialogue and Reconciliation Agreement, which helped avert further bloodshed and set the stage for the reform of electoral processes. This spirit of reconciliation, though difficult, created the foundation for stronger institutions and a more inclusive democracy. These examples demonstrate that historical reconciliation, despite its challenges, is not an unattainable goal but a necessary mechanism for fostering national unity and cohesion. Osinbajo’s reflection on Nigeria’s leadership provides a roadmap for how even the most divisive political figures can, through dialogue and compromise, set the stage for a more stable and prosperous future. Just as South Africa, Rwanda, and Kenya have used their dark histories as the backdrop for their political rebirths, so too can Nigeria harness the lessons of its ugly past to create a more united and just nation, fostering reconciliation between its leaders and citizens alike.

2. Leadership’s Role in Shaping National Destiny: Osinbajo’s speech underscores the profound impact of leadership on a nation’s trajectory, revealing the dual-edged nature of power in Nigeria’s historical narrative. Babangida’s controversial tenure, particularly the annulment of the 1993 elections and the ensuing political chaos, remains a dark chapter that continues to shape the nation’s political discourse. This dark episode is not merely a historical footnote but a lesson in the catastrophic consequences of political mismanagement and inordinate ambition of the military. The speech implores us to recognize how such pivotal moments, marked by both triumphs and tragedies, are critical to informing future leadership decisions for an emergent virile nation.

In reflecting on these events, Osinbajo calls for an unflinching look at the consequences of leadership failures and their long-lasting scars. This introspection is not a passive exercise but a vital blueprint for the urgently needed electoral, political and administrative reforms for a progressive Nigerian state. Just as South Africa, after the fall of apartheid, sought the wisdom of its past leaders to help construct a fairer, more inclusive society, Nigeria must confront its own historical complexities with the same courage and sincerity of purpose. Understanding the catastrophic effects of the June 1993 election annulment is essential in crafting a future where leadership is synonymous with trust, transparency, truth and justice. The speech draws our attention to the fact that true governance is not simply a matter of political will but of moral accountability, where leadership not only shapes and fulfils the people’s aspirations of the present, but also defines in clear terms the contours of the nation’s destiny in her march to attain equitable society. As such, by deeply reflecting on the tumultuous events that have tested Nigeria’s resilience, leaders are better equipped to avoid repeating past mistakes, while setting a course for governance that will champion justice, inclusivity, and sustainable development. This dialogue between past and present leadership is indispensable for securing a future built on the principles of integrity and justice for national healing.

3. The Importance of Dialogue and Reflection: Osinbajo’s speech masterfully highlights the transformative power of reflection in leadership, with an emphasis on Babangida’s candid examination of his life and decisions. Through this, we are reminded of how the triumphs and failures of past leaders, despite their imperfections, have inextricably shaped Nigeria’s present and future. This reflection is not mere nostalgia, but a critical tool for current leaders to engage with the past, distilling lessons from both mistakes and successes. When juxtaposed with the introspective dialogues of nations like Rwanda, where leaders openly reflect on their open wounds, their own history to drive healing and progress, the necessity for this kind of transparent discourse in Nigeria becomes imperative. Such reflection provides the foundation for genuine reform and progressive governance, as it allows leaders to confront the legacies of misgovernance and injustice, while leveraging the wisdom of past successes to forge a more equitable path forward. Just as Rwanda emerged from its tragic past by fostering an environment of open dialogue, Nigeria too must embrace this tradition—holding itself accountable, learning from history, and charting a more united course for the future. In this pivotal moment, Osinbajo’s call to reflection is not a passive plea but an urgent call for introspection that demands action, for only through genuine reflection can Nigeria hope to overcome its fractured past and build a prosperous, unified future.

Solid Steps for Well-Meaning Nigerians:

1. Embrace Constructive Dialogue: Nigeria’s past has been an intricate tapestry woven with political strife and social unrest, but the future holds a pivotal opportunity to transcend these turbulent legacies. The clarion call for candid, unflinching dialogue—echoed by Osinbajo’s profound address—must be heeded. Well-meaning Nigerians, poised at the crossroads of history, must champion the establishment of open, transparent forums where the voices of both past and present leaders can converge. Such platforms will not only cultivate collective healing but also illuminate pathways toward understanding, reconciliation, and the forging of a united national identity. Let this be the moment to ignite the transformative conversations that will propel Nigeria into a future of lasting peace and unparalleled progress.
2. Demand For Accountability: The shadows of Nigeria’s turbulent history—embodied in the tragic death of journalist Dele Giwa, the ill-fated Vatsa coup, and the disheartening annulment of pivotal elections—serve as stark reminders of the necessity for accountability in governance. Well-meaning Nigerians must now rise with an unrelenting demand for transparency and responsibility from every public official, from the highest offices to the grassroots. The time is now to confront past transgressions head-on, ensuring that these unresolved injustices are rectified and never allowed to repeat. This clarion call for accountability is not merely a demand for answers, but a clarion demand for a future where governance is defined by selfless and visionary leadership, integrity, equity and commitment to the truth. The nation stands at the precipice—let it be one of action, not inaction.
3. Promote Reconciliation with Justice: The call for reconciliation, echoed within the speech, must not be mistaken for an empty plea for peace without justice. True and lasting national healing requires the courage to confront and resolve the festering wounds of Nigeria’s past. The scars of the 1993 election annulment, the untold stories of lives lost under various military regimes, and the gaping void of justice for victims of political violence cannot be swept under the rug. It is only by unflinchingly addressing these unresolved grievances that Nigeria can truly mend its broken fabric. Reconciliation without justice is but a mirage—what is required now is a harmonious blend of truth, accountability, and restorative justice, whereby the nation collectively acknowledges its painful history and takes deliberate steps toward a future rooted in fairness and equity for a unified and progressive nation.
4. Focus on Education and Awareness: The speech expressively underscores the pivotal role that education and awareness play in shaping not only the present but the future trajectory of a nation. For Nigeria, this is no abstract ideal—it is an urgent imperative. The youth, as the heartbeat of tomorrow, must be equipped with knowledge and understanding of the nation’s history to avert the perilous pitfall of repetition. It is our solemn duty to ensure that the educational narratives imparted to future generations are not tainted by political propaganda or the deceitful glorification of figures implicated in egregious crimes against humanity. Instead, history must be laid bare—unvarnished, unmanipulated, and unyielding in its truth—so that past atrocities are not repeated under the guise of patriotic distortion or cover-ups. History must serve as a critical mirror, offering irrefutable lessons in the process of our reflections, which will guide us to identify men and women of character in the governance of the modern Nigerian State. To ignore this is to court the repetition of past mistakes—errors that have cost Nigeria dearly and continue to shape the national psyche. Now is the time to cultivate a generation of Nigerians who not only understand their past but are also empowered to steer their nation away from the precipice, armed with the wisdom of history and the clarity of purpose to achieve set goals. The nation’s future hinges on the education we provide today for our youths.
5. Fostering Unity in Diversity: Nigeria, a vast and intricate mosaic of ethnicities, cultures, and ideologies, teeters on the edge of either forging an unbreakable unity or succumbing to the relentless pull of fragmentation. Osinbajo’s reflection is not merely a passive recollection but an urgent and impassioned summons—an unmistakable clarion call—demanding Nigerians, both at home and across the diaspora, to rise above entrenched political and ethnic fissures. The choice is stark: to either heed history’s warnings and weave together the fabric of a resilient and indivisible nation or to allow the specters of division to unravel the very essence of Nigeria’s potential. The challenge is not merely to coexist, but to actively embrace the beauty of this diversity while forging an unbreakable national identity. In this volatile moment of history, it is incumbent upon well-meaning Nigerians to lead the charge in fostering national cohesion, to ensure that differences, whether political, ethnic, or cultural, are seen not as sources of division but as vital components of a stronger, more resilient collective. The ghosts of past political fissures should not define the future; instead, the nation must forge a path toward reconciliation, mutual respect, and unity in purpose. This is no longer a matter of mere sentiment, but of urgent necessity. The strength of Nigeria lies not in the uniformity of its people, but in their collective commitment to rise above their differences and act as one united force for progress even in diversity.
6. Support For Electoral and Institutional Reforms: The haunting echoes of Nigeria’s tragic political history, as reflected in the speech, lay bare the profound dysfunction that has long crippled its democratic process. From the rigged elections that marred the transition of power in the past, to the annulled 1993 elections that sparked national outrage, Nigeria’s political landscape has been defined by a cycle of electoral manipulations, fraud and calculated institutional failures. This stands in stark contrast to the seamless, transparent democratic processes in nations such as Ghana, where electoral reforms have been embraced and institutional integrity upheld, leading to peaceful transitions of power and thriving democratic ethos. Nigerians must, therefore, demand not only a return to fair and credible elections but a robust overhaul of the very institutions that should protect their democratic rights. This reform must be grounded in creating a system that ensures every citizen’s vote counts as seen in countries like Botswana, where political stability and accountability have flourished due to credible electoral frameworks. Moreover, Nigeria must strengthen the independence of its judiciary, legislative oversight, and executive transparency—key pillars that have been eroded over time, unlike in South Africa, where these mechanisms act as vigilant guardians of democratic ideals. In this critical juncture of Nigeria’s history, reform is not a mere aspiration; it is an urgent necessity, for without it, the country risks perpetuating a flawed system that fails to serve its people. The contrast is clear: while other nations have leveraged reform to build sustainable democracies, Nigeria’s future hinges on a collective commitment to ensure its democracy is reformed, renewed, and revitalized. The time for action is now, and the cost of inaction is too great to fathom.

Professor Osinbajo’s speech is a searing indictment of Nigeria’s turbulent political odyssey—an unflinching exposé of both the laudable strides and the devastating betrayals that have sculpted the nation’s destiny. It is more than mere reflection; it is a demand for reckoning, a provocation for truth, and an urgent plea for reinvention. The speech underscores the imperative for historical accountability, genuine reconciliation, and an audacious commitment to reengineering governance. As Nigeria hurtles toward the 2027 elections, well-meaning Nigerians must harness these lessons—not as passive observers, but as relentless advocates for a transparent and just society. The time for half-measures and empty rhetoric has long expired; the moment to dismantle the scaffolding of impunity and erect a new paradigm of selfless, pragmatic and visionary leadership is now.

Professor Osinbajo’s Reflections on Babangida’s Legacy: An Imperative for a Paradigm Shift in Nigeria’s Leadership Profile.

Professor Yemi Osinbajo’s speech, reflecting on the journey of General Ibrahim Babangida, provides a rich historical context, exploring the complexities and contradictions within Nigeria’s political landscape. He delves into Nigeria’s past, particularly the personal narratives intertwined with the political developments, emphasizing the complex dynamics of leadership, power, and reconciliation.

A critical analysis of this speech invites several reflections on Nigeria’s current trajectory, offering insight into how well-meaning Nigerians can contribute to shaping a better future:

Key Highlights of the Speech:

1. Historical Reconciliation: Osinbajo’s reflection on the remarkable ability of Nigerian leaders to reconcile and rise above past adversities illuminates a crucial facet of the nation’s political maturity. Despite the often contentious and tumultuous history between figures like Babangida, Obasanjo, Buhari, and others, their ability to unite marks a profound manifestation of the resilience of Nigeria’s political system. This historical reconciliation, though imperfect, offers a glimmer of hope that even deeply fractured political landscapes can find common ground for the nation’s collective good.

A comparative examination reveals similar instances of reconciliation across the African continent. One notable example is the post-apartheid transformation in South Africa. The unity between Nelson Mandela and F. W. de Klerk—once bitter political adversaries—culminated in the peaceful transition to a democratic South Africa, a historic reconciliation that helped to heal the wounds of decades of apartheid. Mandela, though imprisoned for 27 years, chose to lead with a spirit of forgiveness, signaling to the world that political maturity could prevail over bitterness. Similarly, in Rwanda, the devastating 1994 genocide left the country deeply scarred, yet the leadership of Paul Kagame and the efforts of the Rwandan people to reconcile across ethnic lines have been widely recognized as an example of remarkable national healing. By fostering unity and emphasizing the importance of “Never Again,” Rwanda has become one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, while also emphasizing national dialogue to confront and learn from its tragic past.

In Kenya, after the 2007-2008 post-election violence, the country was on the brink of civil war. The political leaders, including President Mwai Kibaki and opposition leader Raila Odinga, were able to come together under the National Dialogue and Reconciliation Agreement, which helped avert further bloodshed and set the stage for the reform of electoral processes. This spirit of reconciliation, though difficult, created the foundation for stronger institutions and a more inclusive democracy. These examples demonstrate that historical reconciliation, despite its challenges, is not an unattainable goal but a necessary mechanism for fostering national unity and cohesion. Osinbajo’s reflection on Nigeria’s leadership provides a roadmap for how even the most divisive political figures can, through dialogue and compromise, set the stage for a more stable and prosperous future. Just as South Africa, Rwanda, and Kenya have used their dark histories as the backdrop for their political rebirths, so too can Nigeria harness the lessons of its ugly past to create a more united and just nation, fostering reconciliation between its leaders and citizens alike.

2. Leadership’s Role in Shaping National Destiny: Osinbajo’s speech underscores the profound impact of leadership on a nation’s trajectory, revealing the dual-edged nature of power in Nigeria’s historical narrative. Babangida’s controversial tenure, particularly the annulment of the 1993 elections and the ensuing political chaos, remains a dark chapter that continues to shape the nation’s political discourse. This dark episode is not merely a historical footnote but a lesson in the catastrophic consequences of political mismanagement and inordinate ambition of the military. The speech implores us to recognize how such pivotal moments, marked by both triumphs and tragedies, are critical to informing future leadership decisions for an emergent virile nation.

In reflecting on these events, Osinbajo calls for an unflinching look at the consequences of leadership failures and their long-lasting scars. This introspection is not a passive exercise but a vital blueprint for the urgently needed electoral, political and administrative reforms for a progressive Nigerian state. Just as South Africa, after the fall of apartheid, sought the wisdom of its past leaders to help construct a fairer, more inclusive society, Nigeria must confront its own historical complexities with the same courage and sincerity of purpose. Understanding the catastrophic effects of the June 1993 election annulment is essential in crafting a future where leadership is synonymous with trust, transparency, truth and justice. The speech draws our attention to the fact that true governance is not simply a matter of political will but of moral accountability, where leadership not only shapes and fulfils the people’s aspirations of the present, but also defines in clear terms the contours of the nation’s destiny in her march to attain equitable society. As such, by deeply reflecting on the tumultuous events that have tested Nigeria’s resilience, leaders are better equipped to avoid repeating past mistakes, while setting a course for governance that will champion justice, inclusivity, and sustainable development. This dialogue between past and present leadership is indispensable for securing a future built on the principles of integrity and justice for national healing.

3. The Importance of Dialogue and Reflection: Osinbajo’s speech masterfully highlights the transformative power of reflection in leadership, with an emphasis on Babangida’s candid examination of his life and decisions. Through this, we are reminded of how the triumphs and failures of past leaders, despite their imperfections, have inextricably shaped Nigeria’s present and future. This reflection is not mere nostalgia, but a critical tool for current leaders to engage with the past, distilling lessons from both mistakes and successes. When juxtaposed with the introspective dialogues of nations like Rwanda, where leaders openly reflect on their open wounds, their own history to drive healing and progress, the necessity for this kind of transparent discourse in Nigeria becomes imperative. Such reflection provides the foundation for genuine reform and progressive governance, as it allows leaders to confront the legacies of misgovernance and injustice, while leveraging the wisdom of past successes to forge a more equitable path forward. Just as Rwanda emerged from its tragic past by fostering an environment of open dialogue, Nigeria too must embrace this tradition—holding itself accountable, learning from history, and charting a more united course for the future. In this pivotal moment, Osinbajo’s call to reflection is not a passive plea but an urgent call for introspection that demands action, for only through genuine reflection can Nigeria hope to overcome its fractured past and build a prosperous, unified future.

Solid Steps for Well-Meaning Nigerians:

1. Embrace Constructive Dialogue: Nigeria’s past has been an intricate tapestry woven with political strife and social unrest, but the future holds a pivotal opportunity to transcend these turbulent legacies. The clarion call for candid, unflinching dialogue—echoed by Osinbajo’s profound address—must be heeded. Well-meaning Nigerians, poised at the crossroads of history, must champion the establishment of open, transparent forums where the voices of both past and present leaders can converge. Such platforms will not only cultivate collective healing but also illuminate pathways toward understanding, reconciliation, and the forging of a united national identity. Let this be the moment to ignite the transformative conversations that will propel Nigeria into a future of lasting peace and unparalleled progress.
2. Demand For Accountability: The shadows of Nigeria’s turbulent history—embodied in the tragic death of journalist Dele Giwa, the ill-fated Vatsa coup, and the disheartening annulment of pivotal elections—serve as stark reminders of the necessity for accountability in governance. Well-meaning Nigerians must now rise with an unrelenting demand for transparency and responsibility from every public official, from the highest offices to the grassroots. The time is now to confront past transgressions head-on, ensuring that these unresolved injustices are rectified and never allowed to repeat. This clarion call for accountability is not merely a demand for answers, but a clarion demand for a future where governance is defined by selfless and visionary leadership, integrity, equity and commitment to the truth. The nation stands at the precipice—let it be one of action, not inaction.
3. Promote Reconciliation with Justice: The call for reconciliation, echoed within the speech, must not be mistaken for an empty plea for peace without justice. True and lasting national healing requires the courage to confront and resolve the festering wounds of Nigeria’s past. The scars of the 1993 election annulment, the untold stories of lives lost under various military regimes, and the gaping void of justice for victims of political violence cannot be swept under the rug. It is only by unflinchingly addressing these unresolved grievances that Nigeria can truly mend its broken fabric. Reconciliation without justice is but a mirage—what is required now is a harmonious blend of truth, accountability, and restorative justice, whereby the nation collectively acknowledges its painful history and takes deliberate steps toward a future rooted in fairness and equity for a unified and progressive nation.
4. Focus on Education and Awareness: The speech expressively underscores the pivotal role that education and awareness play in shaping not only the present but the future trajectory of a nation. For Nigeria, this is no abstract ideal—it is an urgent imperative. The youth, as the heartbeat of tomorrow, must be equipped with knowledge and understanding of the nation’s history to avert the perilous pitfall of repetition. It is our solemn duty to ensure that the educational narratives imparted to future generations are not tainted by political propaganda or the deceitful glorification of figures implicated in egregious crimes against humanity. Instead, history must be laid bare—unvarnished, unmanipulated, and unyielding in its truth—so that past atrocities are not repeated under the guise of patriotic distortion or cover-ups. History must serve as a critical mirror, offering irrefutable lessons in the process of our reflections, which will guide us to identify men and women of character in the governance of the modern Nigerian State. To ignore this is to court the repetition of past mistakes—errors that have cost Nigeria dearly and continue to shape the national psyche. Now is the time to cultivate a generation of Nigerians who not only understand their past but are also empowered to steer their nation away from the precipice, armed with the wisdom of history and the clarity of purpose to achieve set goals. The nation’s future hinges on the education we provide today for our youths.
5. Fostering Unity in Diversity: Nigeria, a vast and intricate mosaic of ethnicities, cultures, and ideologies, teeters on the edge of either forging an unbreakable unity or succumbing to the relentless pull of fragmentation. Osinbajo’s reflection is not merely a passive recollection but an urgent and impassioned summons—an unmistakable clarion call—demanding Nigerians, both at home and across the diaspora, to rise above entrenched political and ethnic fissures. The choice is stark: to either heed history’s warnings and weave together the fabric of a resilient and indivisible nation or to allow the specters of division to unravel the very essence of Nigeria’s potential. The challenge is not merely to coexist, but to actively embrace the beauty of this diversity while forging an unbreakable national identity. In this volatile moment of history, it is incumbent upon well-meaning Nigerians to lead the charge in fostering national cohesion, to ensure that differences, whether political, ethnic, or cultural, are seen not as sources of division but as vital components of a stronger, more resilient collective. The ghosts of past political fissures should not define the future; instead, the nation must forge a path toward reconciliation, mutual respect, and unity in purpose. This is no longer a matter of mere sentiment, but of urgent necessity. The strength of Nigeria lies not in the uniformity of its people, but in their collective commitment to rise above their differences and act as one united force for progress even in diversity.
6. Support For Electoral and Institutional Reforms: The haunting echoes of Nigeria’s tragic political history, as reflected in the speech, lay bare the profound dysfunction that has long crippled its democratic process. From the rigged elections that marred the transition of power in the past, to the annulled 1993 elections that sparked national outrage, Nigeria’s political landscape has been defined by a cycle of electoral manipulations, fraud and calculated institutional failures. This stands in stark contrast to the seamless, transparent democratic processes in nations such as Ghana, where electoral reforms have been embraced and institutional integrity upheld, leading to peaceful transitions of power and thriving democratic ethos. Nigerians must, therefore, demand not only a return to fair and credible elections but a robust overhaul of the very institutions that should protect their democratic rights. This reform must be grounded in creating a system that ensures every citizen’s vote counts as seen in countries like Botswana, where political stability and accountability have flourished due to credible electoral frameworks. Moreover, Nigeria must strengthen the independence of its judiciary, legislative oversight, and executive transparency—key pillars that have been eroded over time, unlike in South Africa, where these mechanisms act as vigilant guardians of democratic ideals. In this critical juncture of Nigeria’s history, reform is not a mere aspiration; it is an urgent necessity, for without it, the country risks perpetuating a flawed system that fails to serve its people. The contrast is clear: while other nations have leveraged reform to build sustainable democracies, Nigeria’s future hinges on a collective commitment to ensure its democracy is reformed, renewed, and revitalized. The time for action is now, and the cost of inaction is too great to fathom.

Professor Osinbajo’s speech is a searing indictment of Nigeria’s turbulent political odyssey—an unflinching exposé of both the laudable strides and the devastating betrayals that have sculpted the nation’s destiny. It is more than mere reflection; it is a demand for reckoning, a provocation for truth, and an urgent plea for reinvention. The speech underscores the imperative for historical accountability, genuine reconciliation, and an audacious commitment to reengineering governance. As Nigeria hurtles toward the 2027 elections, well-meaning Nigerians must harness these lessons—not as passive observers, but as relentless advocates for a transparent and just society. The time for half-measures and empty rhetoric has long expired; the moment to dismantle the scaffolding of impunity and erect a new paradigm of selfless, pragmatic and visionary leadership is now.

Professor Mondy Gold, PhD, LFP, FCILG, FEBS, is a distinguished Professor of International Business and a globally recognized thought leader. Writing from the United States, he is a recipient of the CSU Faculty Spotlight Award and the United States President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Inducted into the Nigerian Hall of Fame, he also serves as a Nigerian Peace Ambassador in the U.S. Mondy Gold, PhD, LFP, FCILG, FEBS, is a distinguished Professor of International Business and a globally recognized thought leader. Writing from the United States, he is a recipient of the CSU Faculty Spotlight Award and the United States President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Inducted into the Nigerian Hall of Fame, he also serves as a Nigerian Peace Ambassador in the U.S.