In today’s guide you will be learning about the early life of the first-ever Nigerian president, this is because you will be well-informed as you read this article. Now to the big question:
Who Was The First President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria?
The renowned “Zik of Africa,” Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, was the first president of Nigeria who played a key role in the Nigerian independence movement. He was born 16th November (1904-11th May 1996)
Azikiwe was born in Zungeru, Northern Nigeria, on November 16, (1904), and completed his schooling in both Nigeria and the US.
He attended mission schools in Lagos, Nigeria, before he traveled to the United States in 1925 to further his education and qualifications.
In 1930 he earned a BA before proceeding to get an MA in political science. You should know that he acquired the aforementioned certificates from the University of Lincoln in Pennsylvania.
While he was at the University, Zik also associated himself with Marcus Garvey and a few other Blacks of African descent. He returned to Nigeria in (1934) to join the Youth Movement and pioneered the West African Pilot.
Strongly supporting social justice, Pan-Africanism, and African nationalism were his convictions. Azikiwe had the vision and abilities to guide Nigeria through its early years of independence thanks to his experience as a political activist, journalist, and teacher.
November 1960, marked the day Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe was inaugurated into office as the first Nigeria governor-general of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Zik went as far as inviting Martin Luther King who traveled to Lagos just to be part of the celebration in Lagos, Nigeria’s capital city at the time.
In (1960), Martin Luther King visited Nigeria and noticed the differences between the African liberation movements, especially those in Nigeria, and the ongoing fight for civil rights in the United States.
King acknowledged the significant impact of liberation symbols such as Nnamdi Azikiwe on African American students, who derived inspiration and direction from the African battle for independence.
An important turning point in Nigeria’s progress towards self-governance was Azikiwe’s election to the presidency in (1963).
However, the military coup ended the reign of Dr. Azikiwe’s administration in (1966), and this brought to light the brittleness of democracy in recently independent African countries, making this hopeful period fleeting.
Election and Inauguration:
Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe was named Governor-General in (1960), the year Nigeria gained its independence. This role was ceremonial and represented the British monarchy. On October 1, (1963), Nigeria became a republic, and Azikiwe was sworn in as its first president.
An important turning point in Nigerian history was his inauguration, which represented the country’s move from colonial authority to self-governance.
Association and Societies
It will also please you to know that Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe was involved in several intellectual and cultural circles throughout his formative years.
He participated in groups including the International Club at Howard University in (1928) and the Young Men’s Christian Association at Storer College (1925-27).
Following his intellectual interests, he attended Columbia University and became a member of the International Club (1930-32).
Azikiwe’s memberships in esteemed organizations such as the Royal Anthropological Institute and the Royal Economic Society demonstrate his global scholarly pursuits.
He also participated in American professional societies, such as the American Anthropological Association and the American Society of International Law.
These connections demonstrate his wide-ranging academic interests and set the stage for his future achievements as a scholar and leader.
Impact and Legacy:
Nigeria’s patriotic journey is closely linked to the legacy of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, the country’s first-ever president. Future generations of leaders around the continent will be inspired by his dedication to African nationalism and Pan-Africanism.
Even now, individuals working to create a brighter future for the country find inspiration in Azikiwe’s vision of a united, prosperous, and democratic Nigeria.