Notable historian and Africanist, Chief Anthony Prest, has praised President Bola Tinubu for ensuring the immediate reinstatement of History as a subject in primary and secondary schools across Nigeria.
Prest, son of the late Chief Arthur Prest — a founding member of the Action Group and deputy to Chief Obafemi Awolowo — expressed his support during an open art exhibition in Abuja. He described the return of History studies as a significant step towards enlightening Nigerian youths about their heritage.
“I am happy that Asiwaju brought history back to our schools,” Prest remarked. “That’s dynamism. History is very important, and our children need to know everything. There’s even a big debate in America about teaching the history of slavery. I think history is a good thing.”
His commendation follows the announcement by Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, who revealed three months ago that President Tinubu had mandated the reintroduction of Nigerian History to the nation’s education curriculum. The subject had previously been scrapped in 2009.
In addition to commending the president, Chief Prest announced his commitment to mobilizing 44 million Pan-Africanists to visit Nigeria’s 774 local government areas. Their mission will be to educate citizens about Africa’s heroes and their contributions to the continent’s independence struggles.
“We’re going around the country with educational exhibitions,” Prest explained. “We’ll visit primary and secondary schools in Abuja, markets, and key public spaces. Our mobile exhibition tents will showcase the story of slavery, its abolition, major players in the illicit trade, and Africa’s liberation.”
Prest stressed the importance of understanding Nigeria’s historical wealth and potential.
“Nigerians need to know that this is possibly the richest country in the world,” he said. “A country with over 1,000 freshwater rivers — some nations have none. South Africa doesn’t have a single freshwater river. This land is the land of milk and honey.”
He urged Nigerians to be patient with President Tinubu’s administration, affirming that the president is dedicated to working tirelessly for the country’s progress.
“The man is working 24 hours a day,” Prest said. “They don’t sleep in the villa.”
Prest’s efforts aim to fill the knowledge gap created since History was removed from Nigeria’s curriculum 15 years ago. He emphasized that understanding the nation’s rich past is crucial for building a stronger, more united future.