Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation and one of its largest economies turns 64 this year.
Despite its numerous challenges, including economic inequality, political instability, and ethnic tensions, the country remains a key player on the African continent.
As Nigeria marks its 64th year of independence, understanding its complexity requires knowledge of its history and a grasp of its present-day challenges and potential.
Whether you're a student of African politics, a business leader seeking insights into the country's economy, or just curious about the dynamics of the giant of Africa, TheRadar has compiled 10 books that can guide you toward a deeper understanding of Nigeria today.
These books provide valuable insights into Nigeria’s past and present, offering a deeper understanding of the forces shaping the nation as it approaches this milestone.
10 books to help you understand Nigeria
1. There Was a Country by Chinua Achebe: The memoir chronicles Nigeria’s Biafran War (1967–1970), a defining moment in the nation’s history. Achebe reflects on the war's causes, its devastating impact, and the enduring legacy of ethnic divisions and political instability. As Nigeria grapples with ethnic tensions and regional disparities, this book offers a historical perspective on relevant issues.
2. My Watch by Olusegun Obasanjo: Olusegun Obasanjo’s three-volume memoir, My Watch, is a comprehensive account of his life and political career, covering Nigeria’s transition from military to civilian rule. Obasanjo, who served as both a military leader and a civilian president, offers a unique perspective on Nigeria’s political evolution, governance challenges, and the role of leadership in shaping the nation. His memoirs are particularly relevant for understanding Nigeria’s current political landscape, especially concerning corruption, democratic governance, and economic reform.
3. A Spell of Good Things by Ayọ̀bámi Adébáyọ̀: A Spell of Good Things explores the socio-economic realities of contemporary Nigeria, focusing on the stark divide between the rich and the poor. Through the intersecting lives of two characters, one from a privileged background and the other struggling in poverty, Adébáyọ̀ highlights issues such as political corruption, the education system, and social mobility. This novel offers a profound exploration of how economic inequality continues to shape Nigerian society.
4. Oil on Water by Helon Habila: Oil on Water is a gripping novel set in the oil-rich Niger Delta. It portrays the environmental degradation, violence, and human suffering caused by oil extraction in the region. As Nigeria continues to rely heavily on oil for its economic survival, this book sheds light on the consequences of oil exploitation, particularly for the local communities. Habila’s narrative provides insight into the Niger Delta's ongoing struggle for justice and the broader implications of Nigeria's dependence on oil.
5. Becoming Nigerian: A Guide by Elnathan John: Becoming Nigerian is a satirical and humorous exploration of Nigerian society. Through sharp wit, the author dissects the everyday realities of Nigeria, addressing topics such as politics, corruption, religion, and social norms. While often funny, the book provides a critical look at the systemic issues that continue to affect Nigeria today, making it an accessible yet insightful read for anyone trying to understand the nuances of Nigerian life.
6. Love Does Not Win Elections by Aisha Osori: This is a firsthand account of the author’s attempt to run for political office in Nigeria. The memoir offers an insider's view into the challenges of navigating the political system, from corruption and godfatherism to the difficulties faced by women in politics. As Nigeria struggles with electoral transparency and democratic governance, Osori’s experiences provide a sobering look at what it takes to participate in Nigerian politics.
7. Power, Politics, and Death by Olusegun Adeniyi: Power, Politics, and Death is a detailed account of the final days of President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua and the political machinations surrounding his illness and death. Adeniyi, a journalist and political insider, looks inside Nigeria's political elite and how power is wielded behind closed doors. The book is crucial for understanding the fragility of Nigeria's political institutions and the role of leadership in shaping the country's destiny.
8. The Trouble with Nigeria by Chinua Achebe: In The Trouble with Nigeria, Achebe critiques the systemic issues holding Nigeria back, such as poor leadership, corruption, and ethnic division. Achebe’s analysis still rings true, as many of his outlined challenges persist today. This book is essential for anyone looking to understand the structural issues that continue to hinder Nigeria’s progress as it celebrates its 64th year of independence.
9. Because I am Involved by Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu: In this book, the author reflects on Nigeria’s political landscape and addresses critical issues such as ethnic nationalism, governance, corruption, and national unity. Written after his return from exile, the book offers personal insights into Nigeria’s turbulent post-colonial history, including his role in the Biafran War and his thoughts on how the nation can move forward. Ojukwu's reflections are precious in understanding the lingering ethnic divisions, the challenges of federalism, and the quest for national integration that continue to shape Nigeria’s political discourse today.
10. Why We Struck: The Story of the First Nigerian Coup" by Adewale Ademoyega: Why We Struck is a critical account of Nigeria’s first military coup in 1966, in which the author played a central role. The book explains the motivations behind the coup, including dissatisfaction with corruption, ethnic tensions, and political instability. It offers crucial context for understanding how military intervention in politics has shaped Nigeria’s political evolution, leading to decades of instability and authoritarian rule.
As Nigeria turns 64, it is clear that understanding the country requires a multi-faceted approach.
These books provide insights into Nigeria’s history and the contemporary issues it faces today, ranging from political instability, economic struggles, and ethnic tensions to its global significance as an African powerhouse.
Reading these works will offer a well-rounded perspective on what shapes modern Nigeria and the path it may take in the future.
20 romance books by Nigerian authors you should read
Meanwhile, in an earlier report, TheRadar compiled a list of 20 books on romance by Nigerian authors, from heartwarming tales to passionate love stories and emotional sagas.
These books explore themes of love, identity, and self-discovery, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage and modern influences on relationships.