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Pope John Paul II was a man of peace, a friend of the Jewish nation... and worked for the historic reconciliation between the nations and for the renewal of diplomatic ties between Israel and the Vatican at the end of 1993.

Nigeria is like everywhere, really: there are some beautiful places that have been invested in and others that haven't been.

Nigeria has had a complicated colonial history. My work has examined that part of our story extensively.

Well, Nigeria has played a constructive role in peacekeeping in various parts of West Africa. But unless and until Nigeria itself is democratic and respects human rights, it too may well be a source of much greater instability as political repression limits the ability of the people of Nigeria to achieve their full potential.

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa. If Nigeria succeeds at democratic governance it will be an anchor for all of West Africa. Africa needs a strong Nigeria.

While the majority of my childhood memories are beautiful, I also have experienced the challenges that Nigeria has faced since independence.

You go to conferences, and your fellow African intellectuals - and even heads of state - they all say: 'Nigeria is a big disappointment. It is the shame of the African continent.'

Nigeria has had the misfortune - no, the fortune - of seeing the worst face of capitalism anywhere in Africa. The masses have seen it, they are disgusted, and they want an alternative.

In the annals of history, few men have left a more positive imprint on the world than Pope John Paul II.

I've often dreamed about going back to Nigeria, but that's a very romantic notion. It's a hideous country to go to in reality.