The Journey of a Thousand Naira Note: Part One is my first graphic novel.  It was illustrated by Jethro Unom, a Nigerian illustrator currently living in the United Kingdom.  The cover art was illustrated by Maria Nikla, a Greek illustrator based in Brighton, United Kingdom.  Maria created the illustrations for two of my children’s picture books: Christmas in Lagos and Easter in Lagos.

This graphic novel (or comic book, if you prefer) was released in April 2020, and yes, there’s a Part two.  It deserves a separate post, don’t you think?

The Naira is the official currency of Nigeria, and the One Thousand Naira Note (₦ 1,000) is the current highest denomination.  The Naira notes usually bear the images of important political leaders in Nigeria.  For example:

• 500 Naira: The five hundred naira note (₦ 500) bears the portrait of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, the first President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.  It was released on April 4, 2001.
• 200 Naira: The two hundred naira note (₦ 200) bears the portrait of Alhaji Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sarduana of Sokoto and the First Premier of Northern Nigeria.  It was released on November 1, 2000.
• 100 Naira: The one hundred naira note (₦ 100) bears the portrait of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, former premier of Western Nigeria.  It was released on December 1, 1999.

However, the one thousand naira note is different.  The front part of the one thousand naira note bears the portraits of Alhaji Aliyu Mai-Bornu and Dr. Clement Isong.  They were the first and second respective Governors of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Each chapter of this graphic novel can be enjoyed as a short story.  I will share some excerpts a.k.a comic panels, but for now, here’s the summary of this graphic novel:

A Debut African Graphic Novel about the Naira: the official currency of Nigeria. The First Part of an original Graphic Novel Adventure Series.

 

The Naira is the official currency of Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa.

 

In this graphic novel debut, One Thousand Naira, the highest current denomination, travels from the mint where it is manufactured into the hands of people from all walks of life including traders, craftsmen, artisans and even, students.

 

Money is present at the start of friendships, triumphs and failures, the birth of a child, celebrations and everyday trade and commerce.

 

From the mundane to major milestones, the thousand Naira note witnesses the passage of time, observing the highs and lows in people’s lives.

 

Through vibrant illustrations, strong narration, and humorous dialogue, the reader is transported to various places where money changes hands and gets a glimpse into how Nigerians spend money.

Order Copies of The Journey of a Thousand Naira Note: Part One

This Nigerian graphic novel is currently available in three formats: eBook, Hardcover and Paperback at various online retailers and bookstores including:

Book Depository: Hardcover

Waterstones: Hardcover

Amazon.com: eBook | Paperback | Hardcover

Amazon UK: eBook | Paperback | Hardcover

Indiebound: Hardcover

Barnes & Noble: Hardcover

Have a great rest-of-the-week!

P. S. Darling Uloma continues next week.  Thanks for your patience.  🙂