Fondly called the “Zik of Africa”, the Late Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of Nigerians. With his many contributions to Nigerian independence, education, journalism, sports, and Nigeria’s economic development, there is no doubt that his good works are still felt today.
Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe was a Nigerian nationalist, journalist, political leader, and father, and a force that played a key role in Nigeria’s independence in the 1960s.
He was a lasting emblem of Nigeria’s fight for equality, unity, independence, and a shared national identity. His early exposure to the cultural diversity that existed in Africa birthed his passion for Pan-Africanism.
Azikiwe garners respect from Nigeria and beyond. His visionary and transformative leadership earned him a multitude of awards and degrees. He is most recognised for his peaceful approach to commanding peace in Nigeria through negotiations and diplomacy.
In commemorating his birthday anniversary that took place on November 16, 2025, NRTC aims to reflect on the milestones and contributions stamped by the Late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe.
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Dr. Nnamdi was a resounding voice for unity in the state
He championed a vision of Nigerian nationalism that goes beyond ethnic boundaries. He believed in the integration of the diverse ethnic and cultural groups as one identity.
At some point in his life, he had learnt the three major languages: Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa, giving him the edge to foster his plan.
Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe founded the West African Pilot in 1937
This was an influential tool in his mission for anti-colonial activism. This was among his string of newspapers aimed at achieving political independence and socio-cultural and economic transformation in Nigeria. His entrance into the world of journalism sparked a change in the Nigerian media. The press became more courageous, raising its voice against the oppressive colonial system. Western journalism was no longer the same as he launched over 12 African-owned newspapers under the Zik Group.
Dr. Zik was a strong advocate of education as a medium for empowerment and development
His own experiences with racial bias fueled his desire to further his studies. He founded Nigeria’s first indigenous university, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in 1960.
Dr. Nnamdi also extended primary and secondary education, while encouraging Nigerians to seek opportunities abroad. His push for education inspired other young African nationalists like Kwame Nkrumah and Julius Nyerere.
Dr Zik was the Premier of the Eastern Region (1954-1959)
This was a means to foster economic and educational development. Leading the movement for Nigeria’s independence from Britain, he co-founded the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) in 1944. Together with Herbert Macaulay (the then-president of the association), he fought to unite nationalist groups, labour unions, and cultural organizations under one platform. His political leadership was marked by his support for constitutional reforms.
He also mobilized the masses through newspapers and speeches to demand self-governance. Dr Nnamdi’s activism and strategic negotiations aided the accomplishment of Nigeria receiving independence on October 1, 1960. From 1960 to 1963, he ran as Nigeria’s first Governor-General. After Nigeria became a republic, he became the first ceremonial President (1963-1966).
It would interest you to know that Zik was also a sportsman
In fact, he initiated Nigerian sports. He founded the Zik’s Athletic Club (ZAC) in 1934. This is aimed at promoting inclusivity in athletics. It opened its doors to sportsmen and women of all races, nationalities, groups, and classes in Nigeria. After achieving victories in the Lagos League and War Memorial Cup, the club paved the way for Nigeria’s sporting development, especially in football.
It is also on record that Dr. Zik was the first indigenous leader to institutionalize public libraries as a means to promote mass enlightenment
As the Premier of the Eastern Region, he initiated the Eastern Nigerian Library Board. This would come with a library facility in Enugu, the first of its kind.
As part of his contributions to economic development, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe established the African Continental Bank (ACB)
This move promoted African economic independence and industrial growth in the Eastern region by supporting ventures like the Nigeria Cement Company and Niger Gas.
Zik encouraged Nigeria’s membership in the Commonwealth, advocated for national unity and sought for peace. His inspired movement, the Zikist Movement, rallied young nationalists to fight for self-rule and radical activism. He also remained a tireless advocate for unity and reconciliation in Nigeria after the civil war.
Indeed, Zik’s legacy can never be fully exhausted, but its imprint remains clear. He remains a force of unity and a pioneer of Nigeria and Africa’s progress. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe is an inspiration to future generations in their quest for equality and justice.
