Dr. Nnamdi Benjamin Azikiwe (1904-1996), known as "Zik of Africa," was Nigeria's first President and a towering figure in African nationalism. Born in Zungeru, he was educated in the United States, earning degrees in Political Science and Anthropology. Upon returning to Africa, Azikiwe used journalism as a weapon for independence, founding the West African Pilot in 1937. Through this newspaper, he championed Nigerian independence and Pan-African unity.

As Premier of Eastern Nigeria and later Governor-General (1960) and President (1963), Azikiwe shaped modern Nigeria. His political philosophy emphasized self-governance, economic independence, and African dignity. He founded the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (1960), Nigeria's first indigenous university.

Azikiwe's autobiography "My Odyssey" documents his journey from humble beginnings to the presidency. His speeches inspired generations, and his commitment to education transformed Eastern Nigeria. He received numerous honorary degrees and international recognition, including the Lenin Peace Prize. Despite political challenges, including the Biafran War, Azikiwe remained committed to a united Nigeria. He died in 1996, leaving a legacy of intellectual leadership and nationalist fervor that continues to inspire Africans worldwide.


JOURNALIST OF LIBERATION:
Dr. Nnamdi “Zik” Azikiwe wielded the press as a weapon against colonialism. Newspapers he established—West African Pilot, Nigerian Spokesman, and Southern Nigeria Defender—exposed injustices, promoted African nationalism, and trained future leaders in investigative journalism and civic courage.

ARCHITECT OF FEDERALISM:
As a key negotiator at the constitutional conferences of the 1950s, Azikiwe advocated federal structures that balanced regional autonomy with national unity. He served as Premier of Eastern Nigeria, Governor-General, and later ceremonial President, stressing inclusive governance across ethnic lines.

EDUCATION AND DIPLOMACY:
Azikiwe founded the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (1960) to provide indigenous curricula and leadership training. He championed scholarships for disadvantaged youth and chaired peace missions across Africa and the Commonwealth. His speeches at the United Nations articulated Africa’s right to self-determination.

ENDURING LEGACY:
Monuments, airports, universities, and political institutes bear his name. The Zik Prize in Leadership honours African statesmen who embody his principles of integrity, knowledge, and service. His autobiography My Odyssey remains essential reading on perseverance and visionary politics.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 16 November 1904 in Zungeru, Niger State; died 11 May 1996 in Enugu.
- Education: Storer College, Howard University, Lincoln University, and University of Pennsylvania.
- Key ideology: Neo-Welfarism—blending capitalism, socialism, and traditional African values.
- Nickname: “Zik of Africa,” reflecting continental influence beyond Nigeria.