Obasanjo Champions New African Mindset At Premiere Of ‘The Decolonisation Of Africa’.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on Africans to embrace a new mindset if the continent is to achieve true decolonisation and take its rightful place on the world stage.
He made the statement at the African premiere of *The Decolonisation of Africa*, a groundbreaking documentary hosted by Accelerate Media Group at The Metropolitan Club in Lagos. The film was executive produced by Colette Otusheso, CEO of Accelerate Media, and inspired by a profound conversation with Obasanjo, rooted in the late Dr Herbert Wigwe’s vision of empowering Africans to tell their own stories.
Delivering a powerful message aligned with the documentary’s theme, Obasanjo stressed that symbolic independence alone is not sufficient. “Africa must pursue economic, social, and psychological liberation,” he said. “If America can lead the white race and China the Chinese, then Nigeria is destined to lead the Black race.”
Otusheso reflected on the significance of the project, which she said 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,” she explained. “Dr Herbert Wigwe believed in the power of storytelling to shape identity and preserve legacy. That belief continues to guide us.”
To ensure the film’s historical authenticity and depth, Otusheso brought on board renowned historian Ed Emeka Keazor and rising director Bardia Olowu, combining scholarly rigour with a fresh creative vision.
“This is more than a documentary—it’s a declaration,” Otusheso added. “It’s a tribute to our shared legacy and a call to build a future where African voices are heard, respected, and celebrated.”
The President of The Metropolitan Club, Fola Adeola, praised the documentary as a “timely and vital reminder of Africa’s resilience”, while Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, paid tribute to Obasanjo’s role in the fight against apartheid and the promotion of democracy across the continent.
Tributes were also paid to the late Dr Herbert Wigwe, former Group CEO of Access Holdings, whose steadfast support was instrumental in the production of the documentary. Otusheso further acknowledged Access Bank for its unwavering commitment to cultural preservation and the transformative power of storytelling.
