Azikiwe

Nnamdi Azikiwe, commonly known as Zik of Africa, was a Nigerian statesman and one of the leading figures in the country’s path to independence. Born in 1904 in Zungeru, he was of Igbo origin and spent significant time abroad for education and journalism before returning to Nigeria to pursue politics. He built a reputation as a journalist and publisher, and played a key role in shaping nationalist public opinion.

Azikiwe helped found and lead the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) in the 1940s, a major political party that advocated self-government and a united Nigeria. He used his platform in the press to promote anti-colonial ideas and to mobilize broad support across different regions and ethnic groups.

With Nigeria achieving independence in 1960, Azikiwe served as the country’s first ceremonial Governor-General from 1960 to 1963, representing the British Crown. When Nigeria became a republic in 1963, he became the first President of Nigeria, a largely ceremonial role under the 1963 constitution. His presidency coincided with a formative period in the early republic, marked by ongoing political consolidation and constitutional development.

Azikiwe remained a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and public life beyond his official offices, contributing to debates on national unity and governance. He passed away in 1996 in Lagos, leaving a legacy as one of the country’s most influential nationalist leaders and a symbol of Nigerian statehood.