This lecture aimed to discover the reality, nature and
dimensions of the Arab image in the minds of non-
Arab African (sub-Saharan) societies in order to review
the current perception of Arabs and examine the
developments that have contributed to its formation.
This analysis was done taking into account the numerous
events witnessed in Nigeria’s domestic politics and those
of other African countries in the last few years, where
the image of Arabs was the focus of local, regional and
international media. In summary, the lecture discussed
the following topics:
• The Arab image and how it is influenced by western
stereotyping and ideas.
• Recognizing the true perception of Arabs in the
hearts and minds of Africans by adopting a scientific
approach to examine the facts.
• Nigerians perceptions of Arabs and Arab countries
in their various fields—political, social, economic,
historical, scientific, literary, cultural, etc.
• Practical proposals to enhance the chances of the
formation of a positive, more accurate image of
Arabs and the Arab world.