Addressing Africa’s Identity: Moving Beyond Historical Shadows
I want to address the ongoing discussion regarding the identity of the continent of Africa. It is often futile to pursue shadows when addressing such matters.
1. Historical Examples: Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had their names changed by the king who enslaved them, yet they still thrived and made a significant impact in that country. Similarly, in Exodus 2:9-10, Pharaoh’s daughter gave Moses his name, but it did not prevent him from fulfilling his destiny. Only Moses himself prevented his entry into the Promised Land.
2. Misguided Doctrines: Africans should not use isolated Biblical incidents to form doctrines of obscurantism and escapism.
3. Historical Achievements: Africans have achieved greatness before and after changes in names. The so-called original names were assigned by humans, not by God. For instance, the name “Christian” was given by unbelievers in Antioch and did not alter the course of the gospel.
4. Ancient Accomplishments: Ethiopia became a Christian state around 350 or 450 AD, before many European nations. The Ge’ez writing system in Ethiopia is as old as Greek, and the oldest complete Bible is preserved in Ethiopia. Ethiopia continues to use its own calendar and time system, predating the Gregorian calendar.
5. Military Victories: In 1896, Ethiopia, under Emperor Menelik and Queen Taytu, defeated Italy at the Battle of Adwa.
6. Educational Milestones: The oldest continuously degree-awarding university in the world is Al-Qarawiyyin University in Fez, Morocco, and it remains active.
7. Recognition of Women: Women’s rights were acknowledged in Africa long before many other regions. Queens such as Amina of Zaria, Nzinga of Angola, and Fatima, who built a university, exemplify this.
8. Wealth and Organization: Mansa Kankan Musa, the richest man ever, was African. When Europeans first visited Benin City, they found it more organized than many European cities.
9. Academic Excellence: Nigerians are prominent in academia worldwide, with many holding advanced degrees. In 1961, GCU was the only secondary school globally to have three students admitted to prestigious institutions. Prof. Omatete, one of those students, holds numerous patents in the US.
10. Current Success: Nigerians continue to excel and break academic records globally, holding some of the best students in English and mathematics for 2023.
The issue is not about names or ancestral curses. Just as Cain built a city despite his curse, and Germany, despite its past atrocities, prospers, we must focus on seizing opportunities, developing ourselves, and improving our communities.
I remain your friend, Dr. Charles Apoki. You are my responsibility.
