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Historical novels set in Nigeria offer a wide range of possibilities and showcase a wide variety of eras and cultures. After all, the country we call Nigeria boasts many indigenous pre-colonial states dating back to the second millennium BC. It is also home to over 250 different cultures, including Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and more. With this in mind, it is hardly surprising that Nigerian historical novels are thriving, especially because the country is the most populous in Africa and one of the most populous in the world.
The Nigerian Civil War, which took place between July 6, 1967, and January 15, 1970, is one of the most covered periods in Nigerian historical fiction. However, the books highlighted in this post also go back to pre-colonial times. In fact, you’ll get a taste of a lot of Nigerian history by reading these novels (plus a play). But you’re not just learning history here. You’ll discover human nature, love, grief, fun – the whole range of human emotions.
This roundup includes both classics and newer books, so there’s something for everyone. Sit down, grab a cup of your favorite beverage, and immerse yourself in historical novels set in Nigeria.
Things Fall Apart (The African Trilogy No. 1) by Chinua Achebe
Set in pre-colonial times in Igboland, the book is about Okonkwo and follows his life, tracing life in Igbo society and tracing the impact of European colonialism on him and the community.
“Rose and the Sky over Burma” by Rosanna Amaka
The novel is set during World War II and revolves around Obi, a young man who takes part in the Burma campaign. The novel is both a love story and a war chronicle and covers the entire range of a young man’s emotions.
The Pearl Collector by Sefi Atta
Atta’s novel is set in Lagos in 1976 and tells the story of the friendship between the Nigerian Remi and the American Frances. Remi’s husband suspects Frances of being a CIA informant, but Remi has her doubts. Until she remembers a certain conversation that makes her rethink everything.
Dazzling by Chikodili Emelumadu
This book immediately hooked me when I read this question in the blurb: “In a world that has always rejected women, what must two young girls sacrifice to get what is rightfully theirs?” Yes, what? Treasure’s commitment to a spirit and Ozoemena’s duty to protect her are at odds in this stunning (no pun intended) novel.
The gods are not to blame by Ola Rotimi
Originally written as a play, this novel is an adaptation King Oedipus takes place in the Yoruba kingdom. Can Odewale escape the fate of Oedipus?
The Joys of Motherhood by Buchi Emecheta
What can a woman who cannot have children offer in a world where women are defined by their roles as mothers and wives? This is a question that Nnu Ego must ponder. But when she does have children, she must accept that the joys of motherhood will not be as enjoyable.
Sozaboy: A novel in bad English by Ken Saro-Wiwa
Another Civil War novel, this book is about Mene, whose idea of war is shaped by his naivety. When he joins the fighting, he quickly realizes that all his heroic prejudices have nothing to do with the reality of war.
Death and the King’s Rider by Wole Soyinka
In this play, the king has just died. Tradition has it that his chief horseman, Elesin Oba, is about to commit suicide. But Simon Pilking, the Colonial District Officer, intervenes. So what happens when Elesin’s son returns home?
Want more books set in Africa? How about books from East Africa? How about African poets? You can also delve into some must-read novels from Nigeria.
