Historian Praises Tinubu for Reintroducing History Studies in Schools
A Nigerian historian and Pan-Africanist, Chief Anthony Prest, has commended President Bola Tinubu for reinstating history studies into the school curriculum. Prest, the son of Chief Arthur Prest, a founding member of the Action Group and deputy leader to the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, described the move as a significant and dynamic development.
“I am happy that Asiwaju brought history back to our schools. That’s dynamism. History is very important. Our children need to know everything about their past,” Prest stated.
He further highlighted the global significance of history education, referencing the ongoing debate in the United States regarding the teaching of slavery. “You can see there’s a big debate in America about teaching the history of slavery. History is a good thing.”
Prest also revealed plans to enhance historical education in Nigeria by introducing mobile exhibitions on slavery and African history in primary and secondary schools in Abuja. “We are going to provide buses and mobile exhibition tents that tell the story of slavery, its abolition, major players in the illicit trade, and the liberation of Africa,” he added.
His remarks came three months after the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, announced that President Tinubu had mandated the reintroduction of Nigerian History as a subject in primary and secondary schools, reversing its removal from the curriculum in 2009.
Beyond history education, Prest praised Tinubu for his commitment to democracy and economic transformation, particularly citing the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. He described the initiative as a revolutionary step toward economic growth, calling it “the eighth wonder of the world” and emphasizing its potential to boost employment and tourism.
“The President is taking governance back to the people. Local governments are receiving more funds, which will allow leaders at that level to make real impacts,” Prest noted.
He also expressed his vision for mobilizing 44 million Pan-African revolutionary volunteers in support of Tinubu, aiming to raise awareness about Africa’s rich history, economic independence, and leadership. His movement plans to tour all 774 local governments in Nigeria with educational exhibitions in schools and markets.
According to Prest, the goal is to foster a deeper understanding of African heritage and challenge historical narratives that have downplayed the continent’s significance.
