Hagher Celebrates 75th Birthday with Book Launch in Abuja

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

In celebration of his 75th birthday, former Nigerian High Commissioner to Canada and Mexico, Professor Iyorwuese Hagher unveiled three new books in Abuja. The books, titled “Leadership: Leading Africa Out of Chaos,” “The English Language and Its Discontents,” and “Beyond Ethnic Grievance,” were launched as part of his ongoing commitment to national development and leadership.

During the unveiling, Professor Hagher highlighted his motivation for writing the books, emphasizing his desire to contribute to Nigeria’s progress, particularly in leadership. “I’m launching these books because I want to be heard. I have benefitted so much from this great country. At the age of 75, I have considered talking to Nigerians through these three books,” he stated. Hagher argued against the notion of inherent leadership, proposing that effective leadership can be learned and should be God-centered for the best outcomes.

He cited the importance of leaders with the mindset of historical figures like Sir Aminu Kano, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, and Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and Nelson Mandela, who fought against colonialism and Western oppression.

In his book “The English Language and Its Discontents,” Hagher explores the complexities of Nigeria’s adoption of English as its official language, questioning its colonial legacy. “Leadership: Leading Africa Out of Chaos” offers a detailed guide on improving leadership across Africa, while “Beyond Ethnic Grievance” provides an insightful analysis of the Tiv/Jukun crisis, which has resulted in significant loss of life and property.

Professor Hagher also used the occasion to call for leadership reform in Nigeria, describing the current democratic system as a “dictatorship of the majority” and advocating for a transformation into a true democratic republic. He emphasized the need for leaders who embody the principles and dedication of historic figures such as Sardauna of Sokoto, Tafawa Balewa, Nelson Mandela, Julius Nyerere, and Obafemi Awolowo, who championed social justice and fought against colonialism and apartheid.