Emeritus professor of philosophy Godwin Sogolo emphasised that African philosophy is foundational to shaping African identity and strengthening cultural consciousness across the continent.
Speaking at an event in Abuja that marked his 80th birthday and the presentation of his book Philosophy, Human Values and Development in Africa, Sogolo argued that philosophy is not exclusive to Europe or Asia but is an inherent reflection of every people’s culture, worldview and practical life.
The Guardian NigeriaSogolo explained that African philosophical ideas emerged later in written form because of the continent’s strong oral tradition, which made the preservation of ideas across generations more difficult than in regions with long written histories.
He said this should not be interpreted to mean that Africans lacked philosophical thought; rather, indigenous philosophy was transmitted orally and embedded in cultural practices and systems of knowledge.
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NigeriaAccording to Sogolo, every ethnic group and nation has its own philosophical tradition citing Chinese, Indian, European traditions alongside those of Africa and that recognising uniquely African systems of thought reinforces cultural identity and intellectual confidence.
He identified national and ethnic traditions, including Yoruba, Isoko, Arusa, and Igbo, as examples of African philosophical expressions that require documentation and scholarly engagement.
NigeriaSogolo noted that African universities historically focused on European philosophical traditions due to limited indigenous textbooks, but progress is being made in documenting and teaching African intellectual foundations.
He described his generation of philosophers as among the first to work toward establishing an authentic African philosophical corpus rooted in lived African realities rather than external frameworks.
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NigeriaIn discussions at the event, former Guardian editor Abraham Ogbodo reflected on Sogolo’s influence as a disciplined scholar whose depth shaped many careers, including his own.
The former Vice‑Chancellor of NOUN commented on welfare improvements for university staff, noting the impact of contemporary challenges such as artificial intelligence on teaching and learning.
NigeriaFormer Governor of Bauchi State and Pro‑Chancellor of NOUN, Isa Yuguda, described Sogolo as a national asset whose scholarship elevated African philosophy globally, with contributions spanning institutions such as NOUN, University of Ibadan, and University of Benin.
He highlighted Sogolo’s dedication to teaching, research and mentorship as exemplary.
Image Credit: The Guardian
Source: The Guardian
