Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - May Akabogu-Collins: A Nigerian Spring — Long Overdue

i've got grad students doing research in nigeria--without armed guards. i wondered why people wouldn't be jumping on this article
ken

On 2/2/13 8:48 AM, Ikhide wrote:

"When I left Nigeria for the United States in 1980, the plan was to earn an M.B.A., a doctorate in economics, and then return. It was my moral obligation to help develop my country, whose oil wealth financed my education. An M.B.A., a Ph.D. and 32 years later, I'm still here, abroad. In 1992, when I applied for a position at my alma mater, the University of Ibadan, the dean replied, "Why on earth would you want to return when everybody's trying to escape?" No one's been paid for over three months, he explained, and universities are on strike half the time. 

      

Twenty years later, Nigeria can still bring the crazy.

      

In 1980, the naira had a very favorable exchange rate against the dollar. En route to the United States, I stopped over in London. All along King's Road, the shopkeepers beckoned: "Nigerian? Welcome. Come inside." I was proud to be from Nigeria and was offended when the country was confused with Niger. But, today, if I can pass for someone from Niger — sadly, I would be glad."

 

 - May Akabogu-Collins

 

After reading the entire piece, even by my jaded eyes, it seemed way over the top. I do wonder if Professor Akabogu-Collins has visited Nigeria since leaving 32 years ago. Things are bad sha but haba! Would be interested in thoughts....

 

Read on...

 

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/02/opinion/global/a-nigerian-spring-long-overdue.html?smid=tw-share&_r=1&

 

- Ikhide

 

Stalk my blog at http://www.xokigbo.com/

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--   kenneth w. harrow   faculty excellence advocate  distinguished professor of english  michigan state university  department of english  619 red cedar road  room C-614 wells hall  east lansing, mi 48824  ph. 517 803 8839  harrow@msu.edu