Herbert Macaulay (1864-1946) founded Nigeria's first political party, the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923. Grandson of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, Macaulay was educated as a civil engineer in England. Through his newspaper, Lagos Daily News, he exposed colonial exploitation. He fought numerous legal battles defending traditional rulers and communities. His famous quote: "The foundation of liberty is laid in the fear of God and respect for constituted authority." He mentored Nnamdi Azikiwe, passing the nationalist torch. Macaulay died in 1946 while on a political tour. Numerous institutions bear his name including LUTH.


NATIONALIST ARCHITECT:
Herbert Heelas Macaulay trained as a civil engineer in England and applied his expertise to Lagos infrastructure before turning to politics. His surveys and architectural works shaped early Lagos urban planning.

PRESS AND POLITICS:
Through Lagos Daily News he critiqued colonial policies, exposing land seizures, taxation injustices, and racial discrimination. He co-founded the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923—the first political party in Nigeria.

ORGANISER AND ORATOR:
Macaulay defended traditional rulers such as the Eleko of Eko in court, asserting indigenous rights. His charismatic speeches and musical talent (he played the violin) energised mass rallies demanding self-governance.

LEGACY:
Called the “Father of Nigerian Nationalism,” Macaulay inspired future leaders like Nnamdi Azikiwe. Lagos landmarks—Macaulay Street, statues, and the National Independence Museum—memorialise his contribution.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 14 November 1864 in Lagos; died 7 May 1946.
- Family: grandson of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther; father to politician Olayinka Macaulay.
- Professions: engineer, surveyor, journalist, nationalist.
- Motto: “Self-government for Nigeria in the shortest possible time.”