It’s often said that “the secrets of great men are hidden in their stories.” That timeless truth comes alive in Awo: The Last Conversation — an extraordinary work by Prof. Moses Akin Makinde, capturing the final, intimate dialogue between one of Nigeria’s greatest minds, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and a fellow philosopher.
This is not just another political biography or historical record. It is a deeply reflective book that invites readers to sit across from Awolowo himself — not as a politician, but as a thinker, teacher, and visionary.
🧠 The Genius of Awo — Revealed in His Own Words
Chief Obafemi Awolowo, often called Awo by admirers across Nigeria, was a man of uncommon intellect, discipline, and foresight. His political life and achievements are well documented — from pioneering free education in Western Nigeria to his unwavering advocacy for national unity and good governance.
But Awo: The Last Conversation goes beyond public achievements. Through a three-and-a-half-hour philosophical exchange with Prof. Makinde, Awolowo opens up about the reasons behind his actions, his beliefs about leadership, and the ideals that shaped his vision for Nigeria.
Readers get to see Awo not just as a statesman, but as a philosopher whose life was guided by reason, moral conviction, and unshakable purpose.
What Makes This Book Special
While many books have been written about Awolowo, this one stands apart. It’s not a biography written from observation — it’s a direct conversation.
Through Makinde’s probing yet respectful questions, readers are granted front-row access to Awo’s unfiltered thoughts.
Some of the themes that shine through include:
- The moral foundations of leadership.
- The intellectual discipline behind success.
- The importance of education and self-development.
- The philosophical roots of his political ideology.
- His honest reflections on Nigeria’s challenges and hopes.
For students, historians, and lovers of African philosophy, this book is a goldmine of wisdom.
🌍 Why Every Nigerian Should Read This Book
Nigeria’s younger generation often hears about Chief Awolowo in history classes or political debates. But very few have heard Awo speak for himself — explaining what drove his tireless fight for justice, equity, and progress.
Reading Awo: The Last Conversation feels like sitting face-to-face with one of Africa’s greatest minds, learning firsthand the principles that shaped his extraordinary life.
It’s an opportunity for Nigerians — especially youths — to rediscover the values of integrity, hard work, and vision that Awo embodied.
🕊️ A Conversation That Lives On
Even though Chief Awolowo has long passed, his ideas continue to live — not just in monuments or streets named after him, but in the deep words captured in this conversation.
Thanks to Prof. Moses Makinde’s dedication, generations yet unborn can now “dine and converse privately with Awolowo the sage,” as the book’s blurb so perfectly says.
This is more than a book; it’s a bridge between Nigeria’s past wisdom and its future possibilities.
📚 Final Thoughts
If you have ever wondered what truly guided the thoughts and actions of Chief Obafemi Awolowo — the man many call Nigeria’s greatest leader — Awo: The Last Conversation is your answer.
It’s not just for historians or politicians, but for anyone who wants to understand the power of disciplined thinking, ethical leadership, and visionary service.
Awo: The Last Conversation by Moses Akin Makinde is available now @ www.sunshinebookseller.com
