On September 12, 2026, a gathering of Nigeria's political and media elite took place at Movenpick Hotel, Ikoyi Lagos, to celebrate the launch of Chidi Amuta's memoir, 'Homage: Return to Familiar Places'. The event was attended by notable figures, including Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, and former Rivers State governor, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi. The memoir, which spans 492 pages, is a tribute to the people who have impacted Amuta's life, including his parents, family members, and colleagues.
The book launch was an opportunity for guests to eulogize Amuta, a renowned scholar, journalist, and administrator, and share stories of how his life has affected them. Amuta's memoir explores his childhood, his experiences as a lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt, and his interactions with notable figures in Nigerian politics. The author has written several books prior to 'Homage', including 'Theory of African Literature: Implications for Practical Criticism' and 'Prince of the Niger: The Babangida years'.
Governor Otti, who was one of Amuta's students at the University of Port Harcourt, commended the author for his commitment to writing and described 'Homage' as an engaging account that showcases Amuta's literary ability. Otti praised Amuta for completing the memoir at the age of 73, saying it was a challenge to those who consider age or busy schedules as obstacles to intellectual work.
Chibuike Amaechi, a former student of Amuta's, credited the author with shaping his intellectual outlook, ideology, and conduct in public life. Amaechi described Amuta as one of the "best materials" at the University of Port Harcourt during their time, praising his academic brilliance and contribution to African literary scholarship. Amaechi also linked Amuta's influence to the emergence of a generation of students who later made their mark in Nigerian public life.
Yemi Ogunbiyi, a renowned media executive and academic, described Amuta as a uniquely gifted intellectual whose influence and writing style would remain relevant despite the emergence of artificial intelligence. Ogunbiyi highlighted Amuta's seminal work, 'The Theory of African Literature', as a classic that "has not been beaten anywhere yet". He also praised Amuta's exceptional writing ability, which was evident during his years in the media.
General Ibrahim Babangida, a former military President, sent a goodwill message praising Amuta's bold, courageous, and balanced writing. Babangida described 'Homage' as a literary and refreshing account that offers readers an insight into Amuta's life and Nigeria's complex national history. Other guests, including veteran journalist Ray Ekpu and former Director-General of NIMASA, Dakuku Peterside, also praised Amuta's contributions to journalism, publishing, and their personal lives.
The launch of 'Homage' was a celebration of Amuta's remarkable life and intellectual journey, with guests praising his contributions to African literary scholarship, journalism, and public life. The memoir is a testament to Amuta's enduring legacy, and its launch marked a significant milestone in his career. The event was a gathering of notable figures who have been impacted by Amuta's life and work, and it showcased the author's exceptional writing ability and influence.
Key points
- Chidi Amuta's memoir, 'Homage: Return to Familiar Places', was launched in Lagos on September 12, 2026.
- The memoir is a tribute to the people who have impacted Amuta's life, including his parents, family members, and colleagues.
- The launch was attended by notable figures, including Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, and former Rivers State governor, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.
