Awo: The Autobiography of Chief Obafemi Awolowo

Chief Obafemi Awolowo (1909–1987) was the leader of Nigeria’s Action Group party and the first indigenous Premier of Western Nigeria. He campaigned heavily for developmental change and implemented free primary education and child healthcare policies across the Western Region. Awolowo began work on this autobiography in 1957, at a time when Nigeria’s request for self-government had been refused.

The work was completed in 1960, the year Nigeria gained its long-awaited independence. Accordingly, this autobiography is dedicated to a ‘new and free Nigeria’, with the trust that its people will enjoy a more abundant life. This determined, self-made leader here describes his youth, education, and politics. He writes of his hope that this tale of stubborn perseverance can become a source of inspiration in itself, and indeed, this account will fascinate anyone with an interest in Africa, the history and politics of Western Nigeria, or a love of insightful political autobiography.