Former president and keynote speaker at the Inaugural International Conference of the African studies Association(ASAA), Olusegun Obasanjo, has commended the association for eventually having its domicile in Africa.

Obj commends ASAA on progress in Africa

He said that African studies in the continent is at the threshold of gaining greater momentum, describing it as a distinct field, drawing on various sources, ranging from social sciences, humanities to natural sciences including agriculture.

Speaking further at the four-day International Conference of ASAA  slated from October 14-17, 2015 with the theme AFRICAN STUDIES IN THE 21ST CENTURY, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria, Chief Obasanjo affirmed that a look at the broad spectrum of themes for the conference leaves no one in doubt that in African studies lies the key to unlocking the treasures and opportunities, which abound in the continent of Africa.

He explained that although no full account of African situation is possible without due reference to the impact of colonialism, however, "Africans should learn to be the architect of their own fortune in this era of post colonialism."

Meanwhile, he implored all those committed to the study of Africa for whatever reason, be it epistemic, existential or economic to remain undaunted in their production of knowledge on and about Africa.

He further reiterated his continual support for ASAA and all its future programmes.

Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of awards to the duo of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Professor Toyin Falola, another speaker from the University of Texas, for their fervent support and contribution to the development of African studies.