Come close!

Dear academics in my age bracket come close to me. Let me whisper something to you. Dress well, and try and snap fine pictures.

If you are a man and need a template, check out the Ibadan Nigerian American Professor along Florida road or the Professor around Vanderberbilt ( I don't know men's fashion, but I hear say dem dey arrange well, but I add your lists).

Women, come closer, Ara ki sa fun ara (body no dey run for body). Template dey plenty for LSA and wherever you get inspiration.

You need to follow my advice for many reasons I can talk about someday. But for today, it is because of alaseju like me who like to intellectually flaunt when I want to play the citation game and politics with them( if you know, you know). I bring our people in not for representation and diversity, even though it is essential, but because we make and propound theories too (if you know, you know, abi na only informant we be?). Please, make my job easy; we don't want to present images that fit a particular troupe; it does not have to be suit and tie if you don't want to. Make it simple, classy, and graceful, and use better camera.

I don't know her in person. I have read her works but have no personal or professional relationship. This image is irresistible, and I am using it for my Alaroye this afternoon shebi dem say add visuals to your text.

One time, I reminisced with mum about my best moments with my Dad. I said one of them was when she left me with my Dad in Lagos for some months. She said it was intentional for XYZ reasons, but most importantly, "I don't have your money and energy. Girl, you are expensive!"

Nigerian academics, don't let them reduce you; no matter what institution (s) they weaponize, you are expensive, and they can't pay for your mind but let them try. Don't forget to dress well and snap fine pictures! You matter!

Thank you for coming to my TED Talk.

Posted on Facebook on September 22, 2022

I do not own the copyright to this image. Kindly email oyin2010@gmail.com for credit.