A Tale of Two Africas: Nigeria and South Africa as Contrasting Visions

Nigeria and South Africa are the two largest countries in Africa, as measured by their economies. Each aspires to lead Africa. Each has continental dreams, supported by differing visions. Mazrui spends some time detailing these aspirations. It is not a book about economics, but more about broader cultural issues.Both are multiparty democracies. With many ethnic groups and languages. But Nigeria's democracy is flawed by systemic corruption. And since apartheid ended in South Africa, the latter has now emerged in the eyes of many Africans as a legitimate role model for Africa. The book looks at the leaderships in both countries. Many figures have had to struggle against repression. While South Africa has decades-long apartheid, Nigeria had a string of generals and one party rule.Overall, one impression from the book is that South Africa offers a better model.