Paper short abstract:

This work seeks to thoroughly examine how transformative recognition can be an eclectic template for re-ordering and reconfiguring the African society; as this seeks to further revive the idea of mutual recognition and intersubjectivity of self and others.

Paper long abstract:

The stagnation and decline of standard of living in contemporary Africa could be explained by the pillage and plunder of resources orchestrated by colonialism and the new sets of elites created and nurtured by the colonial masters. It is a known fact that Africa is at the crossroad of development and in dire strait. Building on this argument, this paper examines the pathological deformation of human reason in Africa at all levels and suggests transformative recognition as a prophylactic measure to revamp and revive Africa. Transformative recognition is the capacity of human beings to recognize and mutually recognize their desires and others' desire which ultimately shape their identity. Transformative recognition, therefore proceeds through a re-evaluation of individual and collective lifestyles, to set a minimum of ethical standards that promotes humanness. It is against this background that this paper examines from an existential phenomenological approach, the state of human relationship in Africa and precisely Nigeria. It concludes that a reconfigured Nigeria and by extension Africa is possible through the promotion of transformative recognition that sets the pace for dignity and freedom.

Keywords: Africa, Dignity, Freedom, Human Reason, Transformative Recognition.