Introduction
Reading Emeritus Professor Akin Mabogunje’s autobiography, almost two years after his passing, was a transcendent experience that embodied memories, reflections, and emotions. The intersectionality of our connection – our shared experiences, his mentorship, and our friendship – made it feel like an out-of-body experience, filled with a sense of wonder, gratitude, and blessedness. The confluence of our lives was a precious gift, and I rejoice in having known him, learned from him, and been impacted by his life and legacy.
Nevertheless, the huge void left by his demise still reverberates, leaving a crippling sense of disorientation and disillusionment in its wake. The intellectual and leadership vacuum created by his departure continues to be acutely felt, both in the industry and on a personal level. In tribute to his enduring legacy, I revisited his autobiography, which inspired this heartfelt Tribute. His absence remains a piercing reminder of the immense impact he had on our lives and the vast chasm he left behind.
His Vision
With the benefit of hindsight over a career of almost 50 years that labor on a variety of assignments at the state and federal levels about different aspects of the development of Nigeria, all he could report was that the country might be positioned to see what he has envisioned all his life, but not sure if the country would be able to realize it. Nevertheless, he was hopeful that it might eventually emerge. Only a sage of his caliber could frame his disappointment, heartbreak, and dismal picture of Nigeria as eloquently as he did in his autobiography.
The vision that remained emergent to Mabogunje is the same vision articulated more than five decades ago under the direction of his late colleague, Professor Ojetunji Abayode in the Second National Development Plan (1970-74):
“i. A united, strong and self-reliant nation
- ii. A great and dynamic economy
iii. A just and egalitarian society
- iv. A land of bright and full opportunities for all citizens
- v. A free and democratic society.”
Mabogunje acknowledged that the inability of the Nation to realize the vision set for it has always been a feature of a Nigerian polity secured by its political patron, UK and ingrained agency that has sustained what Mr. Harold Smith, an Oxford graduate, called “Northern domination” of Nigeria (see page. 654). In a sense, what Mabogunje said amounted to this; “The deck was stacked against me, and no matter how hard I try or how brilliant my ideas and programs were, the system was rigged to ensure the Nation’s failure.” Mabogunje argued that the corruption of purposes, people, performance and prosperity in Nigeria was predesigned and successfully implemented, consistently, to prevent the emergence of a developmental state and to ensure that the British could achieve its own exploitative goals and objectives. He offered three sets of evidence as proof of his charges. First was the Biafran war. Second was the thirty years of military rule. Third was the emphasis on an ascriptive, rather that a universalistic criterion for staffing and leadership positions in Nigeria.
Mabogunje’s attempt to end his autobiography on a hopeful note, perhaps caused him to choose a dialectical approach aimed at understanding the relationships and tensions between the perspectives he shared with many but pivoted to embrace aspirational visioning of the future trajectory and therefore the current mindset about the meaning of what has transpired in the Nation’s development over the past 50 years. However, his narrative turned polemical. Instead of synthesizing and integrating different viewpoints to arrive at a deeper understanding or a higher level of truth about the dilemma that the Nation’s development face, he deployed rhetorical strategies to persuade or convince us of his aspirational perspective. That being said, dialectics can sometimes be used as a means of engaging in polemics, and the line between the two can become blurred. However, in principle, dialectics is a more constructive and inclusive approach aimed at understanding and growth,
Rather than simply winning an argument. Mabogunje surrendered ultimately to humility by referencing his limited impact to “fumbling”, perhaps he wanted to take responsibility rather than pass the buck. But his humility belie his already brilliant analysis that amounted to the situation that he was, namely that “The odds arrayed against him were insurmountable, and the system’s features were intentionally crafted to hinder the Nation’s progress, regardless of his efforts, abilities or strategies.”
His Leadership
Mabogunje’s vision of his leadership career is aligned with his strive for excellence and mastery in his field, recognizing that skillful work will earn recognition. He aimed to make a significant impact, influencing leaders and decision-makers (symbolized by “standing before kings”). For example, Nigeria’s President Obasanjo (1999-2007) said about Mabogunje: ‘I drew from his well of endowment’ and described him as ‘a man of uniquely analytical mind’ and ‘enlightened scholarship’, who deserves ‘a place of honor in the roll of outstanding scholars, administrators, and statesmen of our generation’.
He sought to build a reputation for excellence, rather than being obscure or unknown. He understood that his work ethic and competence would determine his level of influence and leadership. By associating his vision with Proverbs 22:29 (Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; He shall not stand before mean men), Mabogunje aspired to lead with excellence, integrity, and a strong work ethic, aiming to make a meaningful impact in his field and be recognized for his expertise.
He became an embodiment of servant leadership, a concept that is deeply rooted in the Holy Scriptures. Jesus taught that true greatness comes from serving others, not from seeking power or status (Matthew 20:25-28, Mark 10:42-45). The Bible encourages leaders to have a servant’s heart, humbly serving others and putting their needs first (Philippians 2:3-4, Galatians 5:13). It portrays leadership as an act of service, not a means of gaining power or control (1 Peter 5:2-3, Matthew 23:11). Servant leaders are called to humility and obedience, following Jesus’ example (Philippians 2:5-8, John 13:12-15). The Scriptures use the metaphor of shepherding to describe leaders who care for and serve their flock (Psalm 23, John 10:11). These principles and examples from the Holy Scriptures form the foundation of servant leadership, emphasizing humility, service, and putting others first that are internalized by Mabogunje. No wonder he was so admired, respected and iconized.
His Knowledge Process
Mabogunje began his knowledge journey of the Nation’s development with the mastery of the historical methodology in the study of Geography. He traveled across the British landscape to observe the various patterns of land use, especially in the rural areas. He noticed the regime of production in each field, which was controlled by the village community. The technology of production which was ploughing with six or 8-oxen ploughs required the kind of coordination and synchronization that necessitated the level of control he observed.
As helpful and needful as his ability to observe and describe was, he realized very quickly that to practice policy advisory work demanded expertise way beyond his historical perspective to knowledge and competency, which he had mastered during his Master’s degree education. So, he began his research for PhD, so that he could master the research method.
The choice of research method depends on the research question, the field of study, and the resources available. Researchers may use a combination of methods to achieve their research goals. In essence, the research method offers the tools and techniques used to systematically investigate a phenomenon, gather data, and derive meaningful insights from that data. Mabogunje realized once again that he needed to buck down and really master the research method with further training and seasoning with post- doctoral education in the US. This was the time when geographers became spatial scientists and therefore required rigorous training in theoretical and quantitative education that was already characteristic of the scientific method. For almost a year, Mabogunje buckled down to further master his field. Ultimately, the fruit of that work ethic and commitment to excellence was his “Urbanization in Nigeria” (1968) book, which provided a theoretical focus and incisive treatment of Nigerian urbanization and its problems. He argued that the forces of urbanization are the same worldwide, but their intensity varies, leading to the emergence of urban systems and affecting individual urban centers’ growth and development. This insight has been validated by the field of urban science, which has made significant progress in understanding cities and urban centers worthy of the highest level of theoretical reasoning and rigorous computation and modelling.
His Practice of Policy Advisory
The practice of policy advisory for Mabogunje began when urban and regional development became his focus, much like a medical doctor’s clinical practice. His mastery of the scientific method, evident in his 1968 book on urbanization, made cities and regions his clients, and their healthy development his priority. By integrating historical, research, and scientific methods, he thought comprehensively and in an interdisciplinary fashion, addressing issues holistically without boundaries. His 1980 book, “The Development Process: A Spatial Perspective,” demonstrated exceptional spatial thinking, which he conveyed through analogies to medical concepts during our extensive conversations. Over 50 years, he refined his practice acumen and ability to communicate spatial concepts across disciplines. As his disciple, I learned to reason and communicate like him, enabling in-depth discussions. In hindsight, I wish I had accepted his invitations to serve in the federal government, honoring his legacy.
His Practice Platform and Performance
Professor Mabogunje’s illustrious career in public policy advisory spans over five decades, a testament to his unwavering dedication and unshakeable principles. With a platform built on integrity, work ethic, and keen insight, he earned the trust and respect of every government administration in Nigeria, regardless of party affiliation, military or civilian.
His practice platform was rooted in impartiality, unbiasedness and non- partisanship. Mabogunje worked with various governments, providing objective guidance and expertise. His profound knowledge and understanding of public policy made him an invaluable asset to policymakers. Unwavering commitment to ethical standards earned him the respect and trust of leaders across the political spectrum. Tireless dedication and perseverance characterized his approach, ensuring effective and efficient policy implementation.
His performance as a public policy artist of high regard was evident in his contributions that shaped policy decisions, leaving a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s development. Respected by all, he fostered bipartisan cooperation, demonstrating the power of unity in policymaking. Effectively navigating diverse political landscapes, he consistently delivered results. Inspiring generations of policymakers and public servants, His influence extends beyond his own accomplishments. He molded me in his likeness and artistry.
In conclusion, Professor Mabogunje’s platform and performance serve as a beacon of excellence in public policy advisory, a testament to the transformative power of integrity, expertise, and dedication. His legacy continues to inspire and inform policy decisions, ensuring a brighter future for Nigeria, whenever the time of renewal comes as King Solomon declared in Ecclesiastes 3: 1.
Isaac Megbolugbe, PhD, FRICS, Senior Advisor and Principal GIVA International, was a former student, mentee, and colleague of the Late Emeritus Professor Akin Mabogunje. He is a retired professor from Johns Hopkins University and resides in Illinois, the United States of America.
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