Members of the Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) community, alumni, friends and guests gathered for the launch of I Am a Lagosian, a memoir by Professor Chantal Epie, one of the pioneering figures in the growth of Lagos Business School (LBS) and PAU.
Part memoir, part reflection on belonging, the book tells the story of a French woman who came to Nigeria and chose to stay for more than five decades. Drawing on faith, culture, education and work, Professor Epie writes about the country she has come to love and understand.
The Chairman of the occasion, Professor Emeka Osuji, was represented by Professor Olusegun Vincent, who welcomed guests and conveyed the Chairman’s warm greetings. He described the launch as a celebration of hard work and a community occasion, adding that the University believes in the author and is proud to stand with her.
The Vice-Chancellor of PAU, Professor Enase Okonedo, delivered the remarks of commendation. She told guests it was a delight to celebrate the book, describing Professor Epie’s writing as enjoyable, amusing and refreshing, and praising the way it draws attention to the positive side of Nigeria. She congratulated the author on the achievement.
Reading from her book, Professor Epie spoke about her journey at LBS. She recalled that she was at first intimidated by the task before her but later embraced it, and said the experience taught her a great deal about humanity and has been “exceedingly awesome.”
A fireside chat followed, moderated by Dr Nwachukwu Egbunike, Head of Pan-Atlantic University Press, with Professor Epie, Imelda Wallace and Dr Eugene Okolie as panellists. Professor Epie said she felt early on that she was meant to be a Nigerian, and that she was welcomed and at ease from the start.
She noted that Lagos taught her to be stronger and to adapt to any environment, and that coming to Africa was an adventure in which she grew personally, spiritually and intellectually.
“Nigeria is a land of opportunities,” she said, adding, “It is easier to make friends in Nigeria than in France.” She summed up her story simply: “I am a Nigerian because God sent me here, and I am happy here.”
Dr Egbunike observed that what makes the story so compelling is its balance: it does not gloss over the difficulties of life in Nigeria, nor does it let them overshadow the warmth, opportunity and sense of belonging the author found here. He thanked Professor Epie for an honest account, and thanked guests for celebrating with the University Press. Guests then took photographs, queued for book signing, and continued the conversation over refreshments and networking.