The Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Nigeria, Dr. Ali bin Ghanem Al-Hajri, unveiled his latest cultural initiative today in Abuja — a book titled Nigeria: A Journey Through History, Identity, and Culture. The launch ceremony was graced by H.E. Mrs. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, alongside senior government officials and prominent cultural personalities.
Dr. Al-Hajri is not only a diplomat but also an accomplished writer, historian, and academic, whose work spans sinology, history, literature and economics. His previous books include Qatar in the Eyes of Travelers, The African Legend and Scholar: Sheikh Othman bin Fodi, The Sun Fleet, Arts in the Ming Dynasty, and others.
In her remarks, the Honourable Minister commended the book describing it as one of the most prominent recent publications that address Nigeria’s history and cultural identity. She noted that the book delves into Nigeria’s ancient empires and its rich ethnic, linguistic, and religious diversity.
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The book portrays Nigeria as one of the world’s most culturally and demographically rich nations, featuring over 300 languages, a population exceeding 250 million, a significant Arab and Islamic heritage, and a strong tradition of religious coexistence.
Dr. Al-Hajri, speaking at the event, noted that the work is inspired by his longstanding interest in bridging histories — African, Arab, and global — and by the belief that deeper understanding of identity strengthens diplomacy and cooperation.
Also presented at the ceremony was Qatar in the Eyes of Travelers — one of Al- Hajri’s earlier works — which has been translated into five major Nigerian languages. The translations reflect his commitment to ensuring that cross-cultural literature is accessible, and that it speaks not only to audiences familiar with Arabic or English, but also to speakers of Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and other Nigerian tongues.
The launch of the book is being seen by many observers as part of a growing wave of cultural diplomacy between Nigeria and Qatar. Minister Musawa and Ambassador Al-Hajri both expressed the hope that the publication will catalyse further exchanges in education, arts, heritage preservation, and literature, encouraging more collaborative initiatives that deepen mutual understanding.
