Dennis Okoro, Director, MTN Foundation and former Education Director in Nigeria, launched his debut book, titled “Education in Nigeria; Perspectives for a changing world” on Friday, 20 January, 2023 at the MTN Plaza, Ikoyi, Lagos.
“Education in Nigeria; Perspectives for a changing world” analyses the Nigerian educational system as it stands today and draws attention to any potential problems. It includes constructive criticisms, comments, suggestions and data to help make Nigeria more poised to transform its current education system, at the same time accommodate a very complex and uncertain future.
The event was graced with the presence of dignitaries and important guests such as Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi (OFR) mni, Chairman, MTN Foundation; Dr. Ernest .C. Ndukwe (OFR), MTN Nigeria Chairman, Board of Directors; Chief Charles Ifeanyi; Retired Justice Eteubong Charles Archibong; Folashade Omo-Eboh, Managing Director, West African Book Publishers Limited; Monsignor John Aniagwu, Vicar General of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos and Chief Femi Adeniyi-Williams, Vice-Chairman, Board of Trustees, MUSON.
The book launch, anchored by Obinna-Jasper Ezeokeke, began with the opening remarks by the author, who also shared his inspiration for the book. He said, “I was at the Argungu Fishing Festival some years back and while having a conversation with an expatriate he encouraged me to document my experiences and ideas on the Nigerian educational system. Lucky for me, the Covid lockdown provided the perfect opportunity to put my thoughts together and write the book.’’ He went ahead to emphasise the importance of education.
Following this was a beautiful rendition from the author’s Old Boys Association from St, Patrick’s College, Calabar. It was indeed a trip down memory lane.
This was followed by a short book review session anchored by a foremost professor from the University of Lagos, Nonye Ikonya. She described the book as a significant contribution to Nigerian education as it complements and enhances all previous trends and provides a much-needed acceptable solution to the complex issues that are currently plaguing our nation’s education sector.
The book was officially launched at 3:48 pm, after Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, Chairman, MTN Foundation and many others unveiled the book. Giving the vote of thanks, the brother of the author, Nathaniel Okoro, the indigenous pioneer Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), described Dennis as passionate and narrated his journey into education as a great achievement.
