How Abiola’s Determination Drives His Success in Fathers of Nations
It is Abiola's determination that makes him achieve his goals despite his weaknesses. Making close reference to the novel "Fathers of Nations" by Paul B. Vitta, write a composition to validate this statement.
People often face difficult choices that challenge their beliefs, but some stay true to their goals, even when others doubt them. This is the case with Dr. Abiola Afolabi in Fathers of Nations. On more than one occassion, he has personal doubts and faces criticism, but his resolve helps him make a difference. He does not give up, and he does not let fear stop him from doing what he believes is right. Through his decisions, we see that it is his determination that helps him reach his goals, even though he has shortcomings.
Abiola’s determination is first seen in how he calmly handles Fiona McKenzie’s aggressive questioning during their interview. She visits him in the Pinnacle Hotel and acts friendly at first, but soon begins to challenge him. Fiona calls his book, Failure of States, too negative. She even questions why he is now supporting Way Omega. Abiola is clearly uncomfortable, especially when she compares him to a blind man feeling an elephant. She says, “Blind men do not make good guides,” which insults his role as an advisor. Still, Abiola does not let this disrespect distract him. He calmly defends his position, saying that the African presidents invited him to be an advisor. He also tells Fiona that if she wants to understand Way Omega better, she should read his book. Even though Fiona tries to belittle him, Abiola stays calm, and determined to focus on his purpose at the summit. This shows his strength and self-control.
Despite knowing that many summit leaders are corrupt, Abiola continues to support Way Omega because he believes in the possibility of change. Fiona reminds him that most of the leaders at the summit are corrupt and do not care about real change. She says they were involved in coups and election cheating. She even points out that these same leaders will now decide the future of Africa, which seems strange. Abiola listens to all this but still chooses to support the summit. He believes that even though the leaders are flawed, Way Omega is better than nothing. He says the plan is “a step toward reason.” He explains that it focuses on ending violence and unfair systems in African politics. His ability to stay hopeful and push for progress, even when the situation looks bad, shows how determined he is to help Africa.
Abiola’s acceptance of his limited role as an advisor shows his commitment to using his influence, however small, to push for progress. He is not there to vote or lead a country. He is only there to give advice. When Fiona tries to make him feel small for this, he reminds her that ideas are powerful too. He says his book helped shape Way Omega, so his role still matters. Even when she accuses him of being too old and disconnected from African youth, he does not lose his temper. He simply ends the conversation and walks away with dignity. Earlier in the story, we also learn that Abiola once had a strong marriage, but it ended. His life is not perfect, but he still shows up to help his continent. This proves that even with emotional pain and limited power, he continues to push forward.
Even though Abiola begins with doubt and frustration, his decision to join a risky mission proves his deep resolve to fight for Africa’s future. When he first arrives at the summit, he is unsure if his advice will make any real difference. He feels frustrated that the same leaders who caused Africa’s problems are now pretending to fix them. But instead of giving up, Abiola reflects on his past and chooses to do what he can. He uses his voice and ideas to support a better future for Africa. He becomes part of the secret mission to push Path Alpha, the real plan hidden behind Way Omega. Though the mission is risky, Abiola joins it because he believes in change. His ability to keep going, even with doubt and fear, shows how strong his determination really is.
In conclusion, Abiola Afolabi’s journey in Fathers of Nations shows that determination is more important than perfection. Even when he is insulted and doubted, or is uncertain, he keeps going. He uses his knowledge and strength to support what he believes in.
