Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has underscored the need for Africans to adopt a renewed mindset to truly achieve decolonisation and claim their place on the global stage.
He made the remarks during the African premiere of The Decolonisation of Africa, a landmark documentary hosted by Accelerate Media Group at The Metropolitan Club, Lagos, under the executive production of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Colette Otusheso.
Obasanjo reinforced the message of the film: that symbolic independence is not enough, and Africa must actively pursue economic, social, and psychological liberation.
“If America can lead the white race and China the Chinese, then Nigeria is destined to lead the Black race,” he said.
In her remarks, Otusheso reflected on the origin of the project, inspired by a profound conversation with Obasanjo and rooted in the late Dr Herbert Wigwe’s vision of empowering Africans to tell their own stories through their lens.
“This project began with a deep sense of purpose. Meeting former President Obasanjo opened my eyes to how important it is that this story be told — and told properly. Dr Herbert Wigwe believed in the power of storytelling to shape identity and preserve legacy. That belief continues to guide us,” Otusheso said.
Otusheso, as executive producer, spoke about the careful and deliberate process of assembling the right team to bring the vision to life. She tapped Ed Emeka Keazor, a respected historian and researcher, to ensure the documentary was historically grounded, authentic, and nuanced. She also chose Bardia Olowu, a dynamic young director, to bring a fresh perspective to the subject matter.
“This is more than a documentary—it’s a declaration. A tribute to our shared legacy, and a call to continue building a future where African voices are heard, respected, and celebrated,” Otusheso added.
Also, the President of The Metropolitan Club, Fola Adeola, described the documentary as a timely and important reminder of Africa’s resilience, while Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, lauded Obasanjo’s contributions to ending apartheid and fostering democracy in Africa.
However, tributes were paid to the late Wigwe, Co-Founder and former Group CEO of Access Holdings, whose unwavering support helped bring the project to life. Otusheso also recognised Access Bank for its ongoing commitment to cultural preservation and the power of storytelling.
