FULOKOJA VC Explores Nigeria’s Democratic Evolution at NAL Biennial Conference

Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja (FULOKOJA), took center stage at the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL) second Biennial Conference hosted at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The conference theme, “The Humanities and Nigeria’s Democratic Experience,” drew scholars and experts to the Chisco Institute for Transportation Studies Auditorium, UNIZIK, for insightful deliberations.

In his keynote address, Prof. Akinwumi offered a comprehensive analysis of Nigeria's transition to democratic governance. He traced the nation's turbulent journey through military rule, highlighting failed attempts at democratic transitions under Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Sani Abacha. The Vice-Chancellor underscored the pivotal moment of peaceful civilian transfer under General Abdulsalam Abubakar, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s political history.

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Acknowledging challenges in achieving a balanced separation of powers, particularly at state levels, Prof. Akinwumi celebrated the constitutional guarantees of citizens’ rights and opportunities amid persistent issues like poverty, insecurity, and institutional weaknesses. He emphasized the vital role of humanities in addressing these challenges through education, critical thinking, ethical awareness, and civic education.

Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Joseph I. Ikechebelu, expressed gratitude for hosting the NAL Biennial Conference and endorsed its relevance in confronting Nigeria’s socio-political and economic challenges. He reaffirmed UNIZIK's commitment to fostering intellectual discourse and enhancing institutional excellence through their 'BLESSED' vision.

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President of NAL, Professor Sola Akinrinade, praised the conference as a crucial platform for evaluating Nigeria’s democratic journey over the past 25 years and charting a course for future governance. He commended the organizers and UNIZIK for their role in promoting academic discourse essential for national development.

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Professor Alex Asigbo, LOC Chair, highlighted NAL’s pivotal role in uniting scholars across Africa to address democratic imperatives and formulate actionable recommendations for lawmakers and government agencies.

The conference continues with sessions on Democracy, Language and Literacy Studies, Democracy and Literature, and Philosophy and Religion, exploring multidisciplinary approaches to democratic governance.

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