Lifestyle
Chief Ladipo Solanke: The Nigerian Nationalist Who United West African Students in the Fight for Freedom
Chief Ladipo Solanke was a pioneering Nigerian nationalist, lawyer, and activist who played a vital role in shaping the early consciousness of African unity and anti-colonial struggle. Born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, Solanke emerged as one of the most influential figures among West Africans studying in Britain during the early 20th century. His intellectual depth, organizational skill, and pan-African ideals made him a bridge between colonial Africa and the diaspora community in Europe.
After completing his early education in Nigeria, Solanke traveled to London to further his studies in law. While in the United Kingdom, he observed the challenges faced by African students who were often isolated and lacked communal support. Determined to create a network of solidarity, he co-founded the West African Students’ Union (WASU) in 1925 alongside Sierra Leonean doctor and politician Herbert Bankole-Bright. The union served not only as a social and cultural hub but also as a political platform that advocated for the rights and unity of West Africans under colonial rule.
WASU became a powerful voice for anti-colonial activism, offering lodging, support, and a sense of community to African students in Britain. It also became a training ground for future African leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana and Nnamdi Azikiwe of Nigeria, both of whom later acknowledged Solanke’s influence on their political awakening.
In 1929, Solanke embarked on a fundraising tour across West Africa that lasted until 1932. The tour aimed to secure financial support for the expansion of WASU and the establishment of a permanent hostel for African students in London. His campaign was met with enthusiasm across the continent, drawing support from traditional rulers, politicians, and intellectuals who recognized the importance of his mission.
Throughout his life, Solanke’s vision centered on African unity, education, and self-determination. He believed that the liberation of Africa depended on the enlightenment and cooperation of its young intellectuals. His legacy continues to inspire scholars and activists across Africa, especially in the fields of pan-Africanism and student mobilization.
Chief Ladipo Solanke’s work with WASU laid the foundation for later movements that led to African independence. His enduring impact is reflected in the continued reverence for his name in discussions of Nigerian nationalism and pan-African thought.
Sources:
Oxford Reference: Ladipo Solanke (1886–1958), Nigerian Nationalist
Britannica: West African Students’ Union (WASU)
African Activist Archive: Records of Pan-African Movements in London, 1920s–1950s
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Seun Osewa, born July 17, 1982, is a Nigerian internet entrepreneur best known for creating Nairaland, one of Africa’s most visited online forums. He hails from Ogun State, Nigeria.
He enrolled at Obafemi Awolowo University in 1998 to study Electrical Engineering but did not complete his studies. Before starting Nairaland, he attempted to build a web-hosting business in 2003, which closed after three months due to lack of funds. Determined to succeed, he continued experimenting with online ventures and eventually launched several small discussion forums in late 2003, covering topics such as student life, IT, and the emerging GSM/telecom industry.
In March 2005, Seun officially launched Nairaland as a general-purpose discussion forum designed for Nigerians both at home and abroad. Its wide coverage of politics, entertainment, technology, social issues, romance, and everyday life set it apart from existing platforms. Over the years, Nairaland has attracted millions of users and has been monetised primarily through advertisements and direct ad deals.
Despite the platform’s success, Seun has maintained a low public profile. He is recognised as one of Nigeria’s most influential tech entrepreneurs, yet continues to live quietly, keeping details of his personal life private while running one of the continent’s most impactful online communities.
Update (credit to Mutairu Umoru ):
You forgot to mention that he declined an offer to buy the platform from two different parties:
– Initial Offer: In 2010, some investors offered to buy Nairaland for $1 million, approximately ₦150 million at the time. Seun Osewa turned down this offer.
– Recent Offers: More recently, two individuals have made offers to buy Nairaland:
– Stephen Akintayo: Offered ₦1 billion ($2.4 million), with 20% cash and 80% land.
– Gaius Chibueze (Bitcoin Chief): Offered ₦150 million.
It’s worth noting that Seun Osewa reportedly values Nairaland at ₦25 billion. Today, estimates suggest Nairaland is worth around $50,604,264.32 (₦20.5 billion to ₦25 billion, depending on conversion rates)
Tope Salahudeen
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Lifestyle
PHOTOS: Reactions as one million bibles are to be distributed nationwide in honour of Seyi Tinubu
Nigerians have reacted to reports that one million copies of the Holy Bible are to be distributed across Nigeria in honour of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The announcement was made during a thanksgiving service held on Sunday, October 12, at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
Organisers said the Bibles would be shared through churches and community groups nationwide to promote “moral renewal, ethical leadership, and civic responsibility among young Nigerians.”
The first set of Bibles, which will be distributed to churches, schools, and youth ministries nationwide in the coming weeks, were presented during the service.
The thanksgiving service also held simultaneously in about 40 churches across the country.
In a message read on his behalf, Seyi Tinubu expressed appreciation to the organisers.
Nigerians have gone on X to react to the initiative.
See below.
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