Celebrate Nigeria this democracy day with these beautiful and important books in Nigerian history. Literature-loving Nigerians will appreciate the thoughtfulness. From biographies to war novels and essays there’s a book out there for every Nigerian. Here are five great books for Nigerians who love books.
Foreign Gods, Inc., by Okey Ndibe
This book tells the story of Ike, a New York-based Nigerian cab driver who sets out to steal the statue of an ancient war deity from his home village and sell it to a New York gallery. Ike's plan is fueled by desperation. Despite a degree in economics from a major American college, his strong accent has barred him from the corporate world.This book is a great read as it shows the problems and frustrations faced by immigrant in America.
I do not come to you by chance by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani
This book tells the story of Kingsley Ibe, a First son with responsibilities. He is faced with difficulties as times are bad in Nigeria, and life is hard. Unable to find work, Kingsley cannot take on the duty of training his younger siblings, nor can he provide his parents with financial peace in their retirement. And then there is Ola. Dear, sweet Ola, the sugar in Kingsley's tea. It does not seem to matter that he loves her deeply; he cannot afford her bride price.
This book covers in an interesting way the perilous world of Nigerian email scams,
Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Am sure almost everyone has read this book, and for those who have not, This book illuminates a seminal moment in modern African history: Biafra's impassioned struggle to establish an independent republic in southeastern Nigeria during the late 1960s. This book is a tremendously evocative novel of the promise, hope, and disappointment of the Biafran war. A little spoiler: My favourite character in this book went missing!!!!
Measuring Time by Helon Habila
This book tells a story of Mamo and LaMamo, twin brothers living in the small Nigerian village of Keti, where their domineering father controls their lives. With high hopes the twins attempt to flee from home, but only LaMamo escapes successfully and is able to live their dream of becoming a soldier who meets beautiful women. Mamo, however stays back with his father and he gained fame as an historian instead.
A novel of ardent loyalty, encroaching modernity, political desire, and personal liberation, This book is a heart-wrenching history of Nigeria, portrayed through the eyes of a single family
Everything in Nigeria is Going to Kill You by Ayo Sogunro
This book is one of my favourite books because i totally relate with every chapter, every essay, every sentence and every word written in this book. It talks about how Nigeria is killing an average Nigerian daily and the survival abilities of the average Nigerian in a system that is definitely dysfunctional. The paradoxical lifestyle of the average Nigerian is the sum of this book.
All these books are available online and at your favorite bookstore.