Former Minister of State for Finance, Remi Babalola, is set to chair the launch of “Obalende: A Nation in Motion,” a novel that promises to transport readers back to 1980s Lagos, a significant literary event marking the start of 2025. The launch, scheduled for Thursday, January 9, at Kongi’s Harvest Arts Gallery in Freedom Park, Lagos Island, has generated considerable buzz in the city’s cultural circles.
The novel, penned by Dr Wale Adeduro, a former banker and past acting general manager of the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON), offers what critics are calling a “breathtaking faction” – a blend of fact and fiction that chronicles Lagos life through the eyes of its adolescent protagonist, Affiong.
“This isn’t just another book about Lagos,” explains Babalola. “It’s a mirror reflecting our societal transformation, examining how leadership failures, collapsed democratic values, and familial dysfunction have shaped our national narrative.”
The former minister particularly recommends the book for teenagers and mothers, highlighting its accessible yet sophisticated literary style.Internationally recognised cultural advocate Jahman Anikulapo praised the work, describing it as “a brilliant piece of storytelling in simple, elegant prose” and “an invaluable addition to Nigerian literature.”
The event, starting at 2 pm, is expected to draw notable figures including Barrister Chiedu Ugbo, the immediate past Managing Director/CEO of Niger Delta Power Holding Company.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in discussions with the author, who brings a wealth of experience as a former columnist for several major Nigerian newspapers and an active board member of the Committee for Relevant Art (CORA).
Through the lens of a girl-child’s experience in a developing nation, “Obalende” tackles pressing issues facing Nigerian society. Dr. Adeduro, also known as Pastor WAO, weaves together themes of social decay, poor parenting and corruption to create what promises to be a compelling commentary on Nigeria’s developmental challenges.
