• Ogbodo celebrates don at 80
• Adamu applauds improved welfare for varsity staff

An emeritus professor at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Prof. Godwin Sogolo, yesterday, underscored the importance of African philosophy in shaping identity and strengthening cultural consciousness.
 
He explained that African philosophy evolved later in written form largely because of the continent’s strong oral tradition, which made the preservation of ideas across generations more difficult.
 
Sogolo disclosed this in Abuja, during his 80th birthday celebration and the presentation of his book titled “Philosophy, Human Values and Development in Africa.”
 
According to him, philosophy is not exclusive to Europe or Asia, but an inherent reflection of every people’s culture, worldview, and practical life.
 
Sogolo said: “The book being presented today focuses on African philosophy. Every ethnic group and nation has its own philosophy, Chinese, Indian, European, and so on. Africa is no different.”

Philosophy reflects a people’s way of life, belief systems, and culture. It is a reflection on practical life.”
 
He added that African philosophy can further be examined at national and ethnic levels, including Yoruba, Isoko, Arusa, Polanyi, and Igbo traditions, stressing that recognising these systems strengthens cultural identity and intellectual confidence.
   
In his remarks, the former Editor of The Guardian, Abraham Ogbodo, also shared reflections on his professional journey, describing Sogolo as a figure whose discipline and depth left lasting impressions.
 
Ogbodo recalled meeting him when he came to The Guardian on sabbatical, a period that coincided with his own early days in the newsroom.
     
Also speaking, the former Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria, Prof. Abdallah Adamu, commended the Federal Government for beginning the implementation of welfare improvements for university staff.
 
Adamu clarified that welfare concerns go beyond salaries, stressing the need for improved facilities, especially in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI).