Awo
The Autobiography of Chief Obafemi Awolowo

In this insightful political autobiography, the self-made leader Obafemi Owolowo describes his youth, education and politics.

Obafemi Awolowo (Author)

9780521092678, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 3 January 1960

330 pages
21.6 x 14 x 1.9 cm, 0.42 kg

Chief Obafemi Awolowo (1909–1987) was the leader of Nigeria's Action Group party and the first indigenous Premier of Western Nigeria. He campaigned heavily for developmental change and implemented free primary education and child healthcare policies across the Western Region. Awolowo began work on this autobiography in 1957, at a time when Nigeria's request for self-government had been refused. The work was completed in 1960, the year Nigeria gained its long-awaited independence. Accordingly, this autobiography is dedicated to a 'new and free Nigeria', with the trust that its people will enjoy 'a more abundant life'. This determined, self-made leader here describes his youth, education and politics. He writes of his hope that this tale of stubborn perseverance can become 'a source of inspiration' in itself, and indeed, this account will fascinate anyone with an interest in Africa, the history and politics of Western Nigeria, or a love of insightful political autobiography.

Frontispiece: Chief Obafemi Awolowo
Preface
1. How it began
2. Parentage
3. Schooling at Ikenne
4. I feded for myself
5. Wesley College
6. Years of preparation
7. Fraternity of the pen
8. My business adventures
9. It is a goal
10. Nigerian Youth Movement
11. Twilight of the gods
12. Evolution of a federalist
13. The debate continues
14. The action group
15. Eight years of office
16. Some reflections.

Subject Areas: General & world history [HBG]