Pastor Wale Adeduro Unveils His New Book, ‘Obalende: A Nation in Motion’

On January 9, 2025, Pastor Wale Adeduro, a provincial pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), launched his much-anticipated book, “Obalende: A Nation in Motion.” The event took place at the historic Freedom Park in Lagos, drawing a crowd of notable figures and literature enthusiasts.

The book launch was chaired by Mr. Remi Babalola, a former Minister of State Finance, who praised the novel for its insightful portrayal of the Nigerian state and the challenges faced by the girl child in a third-world nation. Among the distinguished guests were Barrister Chiedu Ugbo, the immediate past Managing Director/CEO of Niger Delta Power Holding Company, and other influential Nigerians.

“Obalende: A Nation in Motion” is a compelling work of fiction that delves into the dynamics of Nigerian society. The novel is set in the 1980s on the island of Lagos and follows the life of Affiong, a young girl navigating the complexities of adolescence in a rapidly changing environment. The story captures the gradual breakdown of societal values, replaced by anti-social norms due to leadership failures, poor parenting, and corruption.

Pastor Wale Adeduro, also known as Pastor WAO, brings a wealth of experience to his writing. A former banker and Acting General Manager of the Musical Society of Nigeria, Adeduro has been a columnist for several prominent Nigerian newspapers, including The Guardian, Thisday, Saturday Tribune, and Naija Times. His background as an international award-winning culture communicator and advocate adds depth to his storytelling.

The book has received high praise from literary critics. Mr. Jahman Anikulapo, an esteemed culture communicator, described it as “a brilliant piece of storytelling in simple, elegant prose”. He believes the novel will be an invaluable addition to Nigerian literature.

“Obalende: A Nation in Motion” is available for purchase on Amazon, where it has garnered positive reviews for its engaging narrative and thought-provoking themes. The book is recommended for teenagers and mothers, offering a nostalgic look at communal life and the importance of social networking and development.

The launch of “Obalende: A Nation in Motion” marks a significant contribution to Nigerian literature, shedding light on the country’s socio-political landscape and the resilience of its people.

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