Independence: Issa to present book on patriotism, sacrifice in Ilorin Nov. 1

Nigerian author Issa Mutolib Ayobami will present his latest book, Shattered Dreams of a Patriot: A Story of Love and Trials, in Ilorin, Kwara State, on November 1.

The presentation will hold at 11:00 a.m. at the Banquet Hall, opposite the Government House, GRA, Ilorin, and is expected to attract writers, academics, young people, professionals and other literary enthusiasts.

The book explores patriotism, love, sacrifice and personal trials, examining the challenges of remaining committed to one’s ideals amid disappointment and difficult circumstances.

Coming a month after Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary, the presentation is expected to provide an opportunity for discussions about national identity, citizens’ responsibilities and the country’s future.

According to the author, the work encourages readers, particularly young Nigerians, to reflect on their relationship with the country and the values needed to build a better society.

The foreword was written by Dr Usman Oladipo Akanbi, president of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), whose literary works span poetry, prose and drama.

Akanbi is a senior lecturer at the University of Ilorin and a former head of its Department of Agricultural Economics and Farm Management. He also founded the Imodoye Writers’ Enclave, a literary initiative focused on promoting writing and literary development.

The book will be reviewed by Professor Reuben Kehinde Akano of Kwara State University (KWASU), a literary scholar whose areas of specialisation include oral literature and African poetry.

Ayobami’s previous work includes Daughter of a Thousand Fathers, which he co-authored with his wife, Yusuf Taibat Temitope, in 2023.

An alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and Accra Business School, Ghana, Ayobami has an academic background in textiles, polymers and materials science and engineering.

Through his latest work, the author examines whether patriotism can endure hardship and disappointment, while inviting readers to consider their role in shaping the society they want.

The event is expected to bring together members of the literary community and the public to discuss the book’s themes and the place of patriotism in Nigeria’s development.