Nnamdi Azikiwe

**Nnamdi Azikiwe** Nnamdi Azikiwe (born November 16, 1904, in Zungeru, Nigeria—died May 11, 1996, in Enugu, Nigeria) was a pivotal figure in Nigerian and African history, serving as the first President of independent Nigeria from 1963 to 1966. A prominent nationalist, statesman, orator, journalist, and intellectual, he is often revered as the "Father of Nigerian Nationalism" and one of the founding fathers of modern Nigeria. **Early Life and Education** Born Benjamin Nnamdi Azikiwe in Zungeru, Northern Nigeria, to Igbo parents who were domestic migrants from Onitsha, his early life exposed him to the diverse cultures and ethnic groups of Nigeria. Azikiwe received his early education at various mission schools in Onitsha, Calabar, and Lagos, including Hope Waddell Training Institution. Driven by an aspiration for self-improvement and pan-African ideals, he traveled to the United States in 1925 for higher education. In the U.S., he attended Storer College, Howard University, Lincoln University (Pennsylvania), and the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied political science, journalism, and law, earning multiple degrees. This period deeply influenced his nationalist ideology and commitment to African liberation. **Career Progression and Major Achievements** Upon returning to Africa in 1934, Azikiwe established himself in journalism and political activism, becoming a powerful voice against colonial rule. He first worked in Accra, Gold Coast (now Ghana), where he founded and edited the *West African Pilot* newspaper, which became a potent tool for anti-colonial thought across the region. In 1944, Azikiwe co-founded the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), a political party that he eventually led, making it one of the most powerful organizations advocating for Nigeria's independence. He was deeply involved in the constitutional negotiations that paved the way for self-rule. Following regional elections, he served as the Premier of the Eastern Region of Nigeria (1954–1959). As Nigeria approached independence, he was appointed the Governor-General in 1960. When Nigeria transitioned to a republic in 1963, Azikiwe became its first President, a position he held until the military coup of January 1966. Post-Presidency, Azikiwe remained influential. He served as the Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), from 1961 to 1966, a university he played a crucial role in establishing. In the Second Republic (1979–1983), he re-entered politics as the presidential candidate for the Nigerian People's Party (NPP). Beyond politics, Azikiwe was also an accomplished athlete and sports administrator, holding presidential positions in several sports organizations. **Notable Works** Azikiwe was a prolific writer, commentator, and philosopher. His major published works, which provided intellectual grounding for African nationalism, include *Renascent Africa* (1937) and his autobiography, *My Odyssey* (1970). **Current Status** Nnamdi Azikiwe died on May 11, 1996, at the age of 91. Recognized as a national hero, he is one of the most celebrated figures in Nigerian history. His legacy is enshrined in numerous Nigerian institutions and landmarks named in his honor, including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja and the Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka.