It gives me great pleasure to introduce the first in the series of Occasional Publications by the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL). This publication comprises .a set of three lectures: two Annual lectures delivered by distinguished, scholars in the fields of Literature/Drama and History respectively and the first Convocation lecture by an eminent and world-renowned scholar, also in the field of History. The Academy aims to address issues of national relevance with a view to making an impact on national life and policies, and sensitizing policy-makers towards well- reasoned solutions. The...