Government at all levels, the private sector, and individuals have been admonished to preserve invaluable aspects of Nigeria’s history especially historical sites , which are crumbling under urbanization.
This call was made by stakeholders converged Wednesday in Abuja, for the public presentation of the Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN) landmark book titled “Military Factor in Nigerian History, 1960-2018”.
Making this point, former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd), noted that preserving history is not just about monuments and manuscripts, as it is about honoring the living cultures, oral traditions, and indigenous knowledge systems that define the Nigerian people.
Buratai said history is not just a relic of the past, but it is a living, breathing force.
He commended the Historical Society of Nigeria’s leadership, the organizers of the event, for inspiring the engagement of stakeholders on issue of history, as part of activities to mark its 70th anniversary.
He said: “As we celebrate seven decades of scholarly dedication, we also confront urgent questions: How do we preserve our historical sites, which are crumbling under urbanization?; How do we engage a new generation of scholars?; and How do we ensure that this anniversary is not just a passing reflection?
“These invaluable aspects of our history must be preserved.
“Through events like the upcoming colloquium in Ibadan, Zaria, and Sokoto, we will also use this occasion to honor those who laid the foundation for our success.
“In this regard, I call on the government at all levels, the private sector, architects, and individuals to join us in this effort.
“Finally, let this book launch ignite a renewed passion for Nigeria’s story.
“Together, may we honor our past, engage our present, and empower our future generations to write their own chapters with wisdom and courage.”
Similarly, former Nigeria’s Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon (rtd), opined that Nigerians understanding their past is essential to forging a better future for the country.
Gowon, who chaired the event, said the book contributes to a necessary conversation about the role of the military in modern Nigeria.
According to him: “lt challenges us to think critically about how much of Nigeria military intervention and what the lessons we can draw for future democratic consolidation.
“Let ime applaud the Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN) for initiating this very important publication. As we celebrate the book and the Society, let us remember that understanding our past is essential to forging a better future.
“The military factor in Nigerian history is neither a simple story of heroism nor villainy, but a situation that has became deeply intertwined with our national journey.
“It is that the task of the Service Chiefs and the top Military brass that have come to this occasion to personally read the book from cover to cover and be inspired by the rich history.”
Earlier in a welcome remark, HSN’s Acting President, Prof. Zara Kwaghe, the platinum celebration affords an opportunity to reflect on the Society’s achievements, honour the contributions of pioneering historians and scholars who laid the foundation for the Society, and inspire future generations to carry forward the torch of historical inquiry and preservation.
She disclosed that the book was edited by Professors CBN Ogbogbo, a former president of the Society and the current Vice chancellor of Admiralty University Ibuzor (ADUN), CCC Osakwe of blessed memory and VS Akran and also the official
launch of the 70th HSN / the 6th Association of African Historian (AAH) Congresses.
HSN, which is the first academic society to be registered in Nigeria is 70 years this year; was established in 1955 by our founding fathers, Professors, K.O. Dike and Abdullahi Smith at the University of Ibadan.
