A Look at Nigerian Science Fiction
A Look at Nigerian Science Fiction
Interviewing a Nigerian Script Writer
Join Intelligence Officer Brendan Sean Murphy as he voyages into space in a struggle for peace and his own sanity. My first novel Fallen is available for $0.99 digital and $14.99 on paperback.
Talking Non-American Science Fiction
Science fiction has long been a tool for cultures to envision how they would evolve and examine and comment upon contemporary issues. As I consumed more science fiction in various forms of media and met other authors, I began to appreciate the differences and similarities of foreign science fiction.
Motivated to learn more, I am contacting non-American scifi creators to get their comparisons of science fiction from around the world. If you are interested in being interviewed or know someone who would be, please reach out to patrick(dot)abbott(at)gmail(dot)com.
Interview with Adedeji Oshigbesan
Adedeji Oshigbesan is a Nigerian author, script writer, and dreamer. He currently runs a blog where he shares his screenplays. Additionally, he requested his contact information be included for anyone interested in supporting his work go from page to screen.
Phone: 09034821630; 07055152690
X/Twitter: @Adedeji_Adeoba7
First, tell us about Aliens in Lagos.
"Aliens in Lagos" is a roller-coaster blend of science fiction and Nigerian culture. It transports readers to a futuristic Lagos, where advanced technology meets ancient traditions. The story follows Jude, an unlikely hero, and his Alien fiancée, Jasmine, as they steer an impending alien invasion. It's a tale of courage, love, and the resilience of a city facing unimaginable odds.
Reading the summary, I noticed various Nigerian themes worked into the story. Can you describe the themes and what they mean to you?
The story narrates rich Nigerian themes such as the vibrant city life of Lagos, cultural diversity, and the resilience of its people. These themes reflect the dynamism and strength inherent in Nigerian culture. They mean embracing the essence of my heritage and showcasing it on a global platform, allowing readers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of Nigeria.
What other science fiction stories have you created? How do Nigerian themes make them unique?
I've crafted several science fiction stories some of which are still a work in progress, each with a unique Nigerian touch and sometimes a mix of magic and science. Nigerian themes bring a fresh perspective to the genre because Africans don’t believe in African technology, hence I encourage them via an African, Nigerian science fiction. Also exploring futuristic technology or ancient mysticism, the infusion of Nigerian elements creates a storytelling experience that stands out in the vast landscape of science fiction.
How do you think Nigerian science fiction differs from American and British science fiction?
Nigerian science fiction carries a distinctive cultural flavor. It draws from many rich traditions, culture, folklore, and societal nuances unique to Nigeria. While American and British science fiction often explores different themes attuned to their culture and fantasy, the Nigerian variant provides a fresh lens, offering a glimpse into a world where advanced technology coexists with ancient African mysticism and local grown myths.
We have dwelt on differences, but what themes do you think are universal in science fiction?
Universal themes in science fiction include the exploration of humanity, ethical dilemmas posed by advanced technology, and the consequences of playing with the unknown. Whether in Nigeria, America, or Britain, science fiction universally delves into what it means to be human and the challenges that arise from our pursuit of progress.
What is next for you?
I'm excited about continuing to create compelling narratives that bridge cultures and push the boundaries of imagination. There are new worlds to explore, and I'm dedicated to bringing diverse perspectives to the forefront of speculative fiction.
How can Americans and others read your stories?
My stories, including "Aliens in Lagos," are accessible to a global audience via my blog. Also, I wish to seek a producer who may help bring my script and story alive on the BIG SCREEN so the whole world can watch.
What else do you want readers to know about you, your stories, or anything else?
I want readers to know that each story I craft is a labor of love, blending my passion for storytelling with a celebration of cultural diversity. I also want readers to know that my ultimate dream is to see my scripts and stories brought to life on the big screen. The joy of storytelling is something I aim to share visually, and I'm committed to continuing this creative journey. With the support of readers and the industry, I aspire to see my narratives proudly produced because, rest assured, I will keep writing and exploring new realms of imagination.
Other Independent Book Promotions
Withered Wizard by Kevin P Hallet - New Book for Sale
After the Defenders of Vosj split up, Grand Wizard Preem goes south to create diversions to entice the count from his stronghold. Meanwhile Jisana starts a rebellion in the realm’s capital in the hope the enemy won’t see Brodia slinking toward their headquarters. But the crippled grand wizard sees enough and sets his own plans to eliminate the last of his enemies.
Like any mother, Brodia is determined to protect her five-year-old daughter, Tresela. Unlike other mother’s, Brodia is a Defender and must risk all to win freedom for her people. But protecting Tresela will put her in greater danger where she could lose her ability to perform magic.
The Red Frontier: Book 1 of The Red Tomorrow Series by Joseph Cruz - Book for Sale
Raymond Redmin, a doctor from the 21st century, suddenly awakens aboard a malfunctioning spaceship. He has no recollection of how or why he ended up here, hundreds of years in the future, crashing down to the planet Mars. It has apparently been 185 years since the Earth went "silent." The colonists of Mars have since created their own society. After centuries of war, the planet is now ruled by the utopian Zeltan Kingdom, a race of genetically engineered superhumans. However, all of the disparate factions of the planet are coming to descend upon the crash site of Raymond's ship. Although his sudden appearance may yield some answers as to what has happened to Earth, war threatens to engulf the nearby peaceful settlement town of Remnant on the red deserts of the Frontier.
Raymond, along with a fearless young woman of the Frontier, noble Zeltan supersoldiers, benevolent androids, a quick-drawing cowboy, and faithful robotic fox companion, they set off on a harrowing journey to prevent the ship's technology from falling into the wrong hands. Encountering menacing cyborg pirates, experimental hordes of the undead, savage evolved beasts of a treacherous dark forest, and giant robotic humanoid battle suits called exo-mechs, these heroes are the last hope for the red tomorrow...
Mission from the Past (The Alex 9 Saga #2) by Bruno Martins Soares - Free Review Copy
Who is Alex 9? Is she the one foretold? Does she bear the fate of the galaxy?
Stranded in a new planet with the Sword of the Dragon King, Alex 9 is finally taken to King Gobbiel III of Brodom and Prince Jikard, in the midst of a deadly invasion of assassins and rogue tribes, while Prince Dael and the army of Brodom are away on a campaign against the relentless forces of the Tshiu. Is this the time for Alex to rise to her place in History?
It’s the 22nd century and the Corporate Wars rage through our Solar System. Alex 9, an elite commando on a crucial mission, finds herself in Deep Space. Something went wrong with her ship, and she ends up on a planet much like Earth – a world at war where Humanity is still in the Middle Ages. Armies of knights, bowmen and spearmen clash as empires fight to death and alliances are stretched to the limit. But is Alex there by accident? A mysterious prophecy seems to have predicted her coming. And why is she in possession of the deadly Japanese Sword of the Dragon, once the prize of the Takahashi-McNamara Corporation? What secret powers are at work? In this new world, she will have to find a new family, a new mission and her own destiny.
Until Next Time
Thank you for reading this newsletter post. Next time, we will continue the religion and aliens series by looking at some the twentieth-century religions of Nation of Islam, Scientology, and Falun Gong (see previous editions of Catholicism, Orthodoxy, Protestantism and other Christian Groups, Islam, Judaism, the Dharma faiths, Ancient Religions, Theozoology and World Ice Theory, and American Indian religions. Then, with luck, I will explain why the movie Starship Troopers is popular with those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.