The government of Edo State has revealed that it would reintroduce the teaching of History as a subject in schools in the state to allow the young generation learn about the labours of past heroes.
Besides, the state-owned tertiary institutions would also be equipped to teach Bini history while scholarships would be awarded to postgraduate students interested in studying Bini History for their doctorate degrees.
The state Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki disclosed this during the inauguration of the Castle of Legends Initiative (COLI), a Non-Governmental Organisation in honour of late Chief Anthony Enahoro, a foremost nationalist, in Benin on Saturday.
Noting that the knowledge of history was at its lowest ebb in the country, especially among the younger generation, Governor Obaseki said the state would reintroduce History and that it would be taught alongside with Social Studies.
The governor described Late Chief Enahoro as a vibrant journalist and nationalist, who sacrificed his life, went to jail and went into exile for a better Nigeria.
Continuing, he said that Enahoro’s contributions to the country should be celebrated and his name immortalized at the green chambers of the National Assembly.
Meanwhile, the president of COLI, who is also the Esogban of Benin kingdom, Chief David Edebiri, presenting a lecture titled, ‘Immortalizing Our Heroes Past, Nigerian Nationalists in Focus’, said national heroes like Enahoro needed to be appreciated for their immense contributions.
Chief Edebiri expressed optimism that immortalising heroes like Enahoro, who fought for the emancipation of the country, would inspire Nigerians to be more patriotic.
In addition, the state governor unveiled a life-sized statue of Chief Anthony Enahoro, erected by the Castle of Legends Initiative at the foreground of the Edo State House of Assembly complex.
This was as awards were presented to four national heroes who contributed to the independence of the country, including Alhaji Lateef Jakande, Obi Nosike Ikpo, Chief Mbazilike Amech and Alhaji Tanko Yakasai.
Meanwhile, a book entitled “The Role of Militant Youths in the Struggles for Nigerian Independence: Tony Enahoro as a Case Study”, written by Chief Dr David Edeberi was also presented during the event.
