By Hassan Ibrahim
The diplomatic legacy of the late Professor Okello Oculi has been described as a significant intellectual resource for advancing African unity, cultural renaissance and sustainable development.
A scholar, Dr. Khadijah Sunusi Gumbi from Bayero University Kano made the submission while presenting a paper titled “The Diplomatic Legacy of Professor Okello Oculi” at a programme held at the CBN Centre of Excellence, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Dr Khadijah described Oculi as more than a political scientist, poet and novelist, saying he was an “intellectual diplomat” whose lifelong advocacy for Pan-Africanism and African development provided important ideas for addressing the continent’s contemporary challenges.
She said the book launched during the programme examined key diplomatic frameworks reflected in Oculi’s works, particularly intellectualism, knowledge, Pan-Africanism and soft power, which she identified as important instruments for strengthening Africa’s global influence.
According to her, Oculli consistently advocated cultural renaissance as a means of promoting African unity and solidarity, stressing that Africa could use its cultural resources and intellectual capital to strengthen its position in global affairs.
Khadijah explained that the publication was produced to preserve Oculi’s intellectual contributions and make his ideas accessible to present and future generations, particularly young Africans interested in the continent’s development.
She urged Africans to move beyond celebrating Oculi’s legacy and begin applying his ideas to contemporary development challenges, arguing that his vision remained relevant to efforts aimed at building a united, confident and self-reliant Africa.
The programme brought together academics, students and other stakeholders to reflect on Oculi’s contribution to Pan-African thought and explore ways of sustaining his ideals for the benefit of future generations.
Our Correspondent Hassan Ibrahim reports that participants at the event described the preservation and practical application of Oculi’s ideas as essential to keeping his Pan-African vision alive.
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