Abuja, NIGERIA — Nigeria’s former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar has described the nation’s first indigenous president Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe as selfless and patriotic leader. Gen. Abubakar said this during his remark as the Chairman of 5th Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Award Lecture held in Abuja.
The annual lecture series, dedicated to honoring the life and accomplishments of Dr. Azikiwe, known affectionately as “Zik of Africa,” has become a major platform for reflecting on the ideals and values that shaped Nigeria’s journey to independence. This year’s theme which centered on “Nigeria’s Governance Model: Prospects and Perspectives,” served as a reminder of the pivotal role played by Azikiwe in the country’s history.
In his opening remarks, General Abdulsalami Abubakar described Dr. Azikiwe as an icon of Nigerian nationalism whose efforts were instrumental in the struggle against colonial rule. Abdulsalami praised Zik’s vision of a united Nigeria, noting that Azikiwe’s inclusive approach to leadership was key in fostering a sense of shared national identity across ethnic and regional lines. He highlighted Zik’s role in promoting dialogue, diplomacy, and reconciliation as essential tools for achieving peace and progress.
“Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe was a man ahead of his time. He understood that the strength of Nigeria lies in its diversity, and he worked tirelessly to bridge divides and promote unity,” Abdulsalami stated. The former Head of State urged contemporary leaders to emulate Azikiwe’s virtues of integrity, selflessness, and a commitment to national service, stressing that these qualities are essential for addressing the current challenges facing Nigeria.
“Zik’s legacy is a testament to the power of leadership rooted in vision and principle,” Abdulsalami concluded. “It is our duty to continue his work by fostering dialogue, embracing diversity, and working together towards a common goal. Let us honor his memory by dedicating ourselves to the ideals he cherished—unity, justice, and progress for all Nigerians.”
The keynote address, delivered by Governor Babagana Zulum, emphasized the enduring relevance of Dr. Azikiwe’s legacy. The Chief Whip of the Senate Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, who represented Gov, Zulum, spoke extensively on the role of visionary leadership in nation-building, drawing parallels between Zik’s era and the present day. He praised Azikiwe’s contributions not only to politics but also to education, media, and public service.
“Zik’s legacy goes beyond his political achievements; he was a pioneer in education and a strong advocate for press freedom,” the Chief Whip noted. He highlighted Zik’s establishment of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, as a landmark achievement that demonstrated his commitment to empowering future generations through education. “Dr. Azikiwe believed in the power of knowledge and the importance of an informed citizenry. His vision for education as a tool for national development remains a guiding principle for us today.”
Sen. Monguno also commended Dr. Azikiwe’s role in the decolonization process and his leadership during the early years of Nigeria’s independence. He described Azikiwe as a unifying figure whose political philosophy was rooted in the principles of federalism, inclusiveness, and dialogue. The address called on Nigerian leaders to draw inspiration from Zik’s approach to governance, emphasizing the need for leaders who prioritize the collective good over personal interests.
Earkier in his welcome address, the Director General of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Award Lecture Chief Chineme Onyeke, expressed delight and subsequently emphasized the importance of drawing inspiration from visionary leaders like Dr. Azikiwe. He further demanded that both Federal and State governments should collaborate to immortalise the ideals of Zik.
“As we plead for the establishment of Zik’s Center for National Unity here in Abuja, same way, we passionately plead that the Zik’s Centre in Zungeru Niger State, which was left uncompleted for decades should now be completed”
“The Zik’s Center conceived to be built in Zungeru Niger State, the birth-place of the Great Zik of Africa is abandoned for over 30 years now. It’s for this and more that we call on the federal government of Nigeria, and Niger State government to kindly complete the edifice in honour of Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe.”
“We seek the Federal and State Governments’ assistance, corporate bodies and other good spirited individuals here, in the renovation and maintenance of Dr. Azikiwe’s Onuiyi residence which is in a deplorable condition today at Nsukka, Enugu State, where his widow and family currently reside. The property holds immense historical significance, and we believe that preserving it in good condition is essential to maintaining a tangible link with Dr.
Azikiwe’s legacy. Regular upkeep of this property as “National Heritage” would also help ensure that future generations can visit and appreciate the environment in which such a great figure lived and died” he concluded,
The lecture was attended by a distinguished array of guests, including senators, members of the House of Representatives, traditional rulers, academics, and representatives from various civil society organizations. Many of the attendees spoke fondly of Dr. Azikiwe’s contributions to the nation, with several noting that his ideals of democracy, unity, and progress continue to resonate in contemporary Nigeria.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Award for National Service, which was given to individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exemplary commitment to nation-building and social progress. Among the awardees were prominent figures in politics, academia, and the private sector, who were recognized for their dedication to advancing the values for which Dr. Azikiwe stood for.
Discussion about this post