Why Obasanjo Prefers Not to Be Called ‘Matthew’

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo explains why he distances himself from the name “Matthew,” citing personal and religious reasons. Find out more about his perspective.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has announced that he has removed ‘Matthew’ from his name, stating that it was never a favorite of his.

During his speech on Wednesday, Obasanjo highlighted the importance of Africans decolonizing their names. He described this as an essential step towards liberating themselves from the remnants of slavery, the slave trade, and colonialism.

He believes that for Africa to make significant advancements in politics and economic development, it must achieve cultural liberation.

He delivered a speech in Abeokuta, Ogun State, at a public lecture and book presentation held to celebrate his 88th birthday.

The books are titled “Lest We Forget: Slavery, Slave Trade, Emancipation and Reparation” and “Nigeria: Past and the Future.”

The occasion was graced by Peter Obi, the Labour Party Presidential Candidate from the last election; his running mate, Yusuf Datti–Ahmed; Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke; Ogun Deputy Governor Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele; and business mogul Sir Kessington Adebutu.

Former Governors Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Sule Lamido (Jigawa), and Emeka Ihedioha of Imo, along with traditional rulers and other prominent politicians, were present to honor the former president.

In his remarks, Obasanjo emphasized that Africa needs to liberate itself from the impact of colonialism in order to achieve its desired growth and development.

According to Obasanjo, the guest lecturer helped us understand that a portion of our challenges stems from what could be referred to as the remnants of slavery, slave trade, and colonialism. He emphasized that unless we completely free ourselves from these influences, our progress will remain limited.

The former President pointed out that Africa continues to grapple with the lasting impacts of colonialism and the slave trade, which spanned approximately two centuries.

Citing remarks from several speakers at the event, Ota – Farmer also advocated for what he referred to as the decolonization of names, suggesting that he’s grown less fond of his name, Matthew.

In a recorded speech, Obasanjo humorously mentioned remarks made by Dr. Akin Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank, where he referred to him as Matthew.

He informed the gathering that he would continue using his native names, Olusegun Aremu Okikiola Obasanjo, while mentioning that Adesina is welcome to keep Matthew if he wishes.

Obasanjo questioned why his late parents chose to name him Matthew, after a tax collector, instead of opting for names like Peter, Samuel, John, or Moses that he considered “beautiful.”

He stated, “This leads me to Akin Adesina, who keeps insisting on calling me Matthew. I have no issue with his evangelical goals. Though Matthew was a disciple of Jesus Christ, he also served as a tax collector.”

We have Peter, a disciple who was forgiven after denying Jesus and went on to become the rock. We also have John. However, I’m not particularly fond of the name Matthew. My parents decided on that for me—I’m unsure why they chose it over other beautiful names like Peter, John, Samuel, Moses or even Joseph.

Thus, while Akin Adesina can hold onto his Matthew, I will retain my Olusegun Okikiola Aremu Obasanjo.

Continuing the discussion about his second book on Nigeria’s past and future, Obasanjo characterized himself as an unwavering optimist, expressing confidence that Nigeria would achieve greatness during his lifetime.

In “Nigeria Past and Future,” we must collectively examine where we’ve all erred without exceptions. Is there a solution? If so, what is it? Once identified, how do we reach this solution and what actions should be taken to achieve it?

Personally, I am an unwavering optimist when it comes to Nigeria. There’s no denying that the situation is difficult; however, I’m confident that within my lifetime, we will see a Nigeria of which we can all be proud.

In a lecture titled “Echoes of the Past, Visions of the Future: Reflections on Slavery and Colonization and Nigeria’s Journey Towards a Promising Future,” Professor Eghosa Osaghae highlighted the importance for Nigeria to rethink its history, culture, and identity without being constrained by the lasting impacts of colonialism.

Osaghae, the Director-General of the Nigerian Institute for International Affairs, emphasized the significance of advancing indigenous knowledge systems, languages, and cultural traditions. He advocated for a new era of African-led development driven by the continent’s unique values, perspectives, and priorities.