By the early 20th century, Nigeria was firmly under British colonial rule. The administration governed the North through indirect rule and a mix of direct and indirect approaches in the South. Colonial authorities-maintained control over resources, limited African participation in government, and implemented policies that reinforced social and economic hierarchies. Amid this system, figures such as Nnamdi Azikiwe emerged from a small but growing class of Western-educated Nigerians, challenging colonial authority through journalism, political organisation, and nationalist advocacy.
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Amid these structures, a small but growing class of Western-educated Nigerians emerged. Missionary and government schools produced lawyers, teachers, journalists, and civil servants who questioned racial discrimination, economic marginalisation, and political exclusion. Nationalist sentiment gradually developed, though ethnic and regional divisions limited early coordination.
Within this environment, Nnamdi Azikiwe, born on 16 November 1904 in Zungeru, Northern Nigeria, became one of the country’s most influential nationalist leaders. Known as “Zik,” he combined journalism, political organisation, and Pan-African ideas to create a national movement capable of challenging colonial authority.
Early Life, Education, and Influences
Azikiwe was born to Igbo parents and raised in southeastern Nigeria. He pursued higher education in the United States, attending Storer College, Lincoln University, and Howard University, where he studied liberal arts, journalism, and political science. He also undertook postgraduate work at the University of Pennsylvania, acquiring exposure to international politics and economics.
During his years abroad, Azikiwe was influenced by Pan-Africanism and admired leaders such as Marcus Garvey. He believed African political freedom and development could be achieved through education, unity, and civic engagement.
Returning to Nigeria in the 1930s, he applied these ideas in journalism and political activism, laying the groundwork for his central role in the nationalist movement.
Journalism as a Tool for Nationalism
Azikiwe’s first significant contribution to nationalism was through journalism. In 1937, he founded the West African Pilot, which became a leading platform for anti-colonial discourse.
Through his newspaper, Azikiwe:
- Critiqued colonial policies and racial discrimination
- Advocated African self-rule and inter-regional unity
- Encouraged literacy, education, and civic participation
- Highlighted international anti-colonial struggles to inspire local action
The West African Pilot quickly gained widespread readership, fostering national consciousness by connecting political and social issues across Lagos, the Eastern Region, and beyond.
Formation of the NCNC (1944)
Recognizing the need for a political platform, Azikiwe helped establish the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) in 1944. Initially focused on the Eastern Region, the NCNC gradually expanded nationally.
Its objectives included:
- Achieving Nigerian self-government
- Expanding educational opportunities and professional development
- Promoting economic self-reliance
- Advocating inclusive social and political reforms
Azikiwe’s leadership was central to the NCNC’s early success. He articulated a vision of a united Nigeria, appealing to educated elites, trade unionists, and emerging middle-class citizens.
Electoral Politics and Leadership in the Eastern Region
Azikiwe was first elected to the Eastern Regional House of Assembly in 1947, advocating constitutional reform, expanded education, and regional autonomy within a federal framework.
By the 1950s:
- The NCNC dominated Eastern politics
- Azikiwe became a symbol of nationalist aspiration
- He collaborated with leaders such as Obafemi Awolowo in promoting federalism
The 1954 Lyttleton Constitution and subsequent federal elections marked critical steps toward independence, with the NCNC emerging as a major partner in the federal government.
The Road to Independence (1954–1960)
Azikiwe advocated:
- Federalism: Maintaining regional autonomy within a unified Nigeria
- Gradual transition: Step-by-step transfer of power
- National integration: Bridging ethnic and regional divides
In 1957, the NCNC won Eastern Regional elections, and Azikiwe became Premier of the Eastern Region. His administration emphasised educational and infrastructural development, paralleling reforms in the Western Region under Awolowo.
He played a key role in national independence negotiations, culminating in Nigeria’s 1960 Constitution and sovereignty.
Presidency and Nation-Building
On 1 October 1960, Azikiwe became Nigeria’s first Governor-General, representing the British monarch while serving as a nationalist symbol. In 1963, Nigeria became a republic, and he assumed the Presidency.
His tenure focused on:
- Symbolic leadership: Promoting national unity
- Education: Supporting schools and universities
- Economic planning: Balancing regional growth with national priorities
Although largely ceremonial, Azikiwe’s presidency reinforced the ethos of self-governance and national cohesion.
Challenges and Controversies
Azikiwe navigated multiple challenges:
- Regional rivalries with the Action Group (West) and Northern People’s Congress
- Military interventions, including the 1966 coups
- Persistent ethnic and regional tensions
Despite obstacles, he helped establish Nigeria’s institutional and ideological foundations for independence and early governance.
Legacy and Enduring Influence
Azikiwe’s contributions include:
- Advocacy for national unity transcending ethnicity
- Demonstration of journalism as a political instrument
- Influence on federalism and governance
- Inspiration for later leaders, including Obafemi Awolowo and Ahmadu Bello
He remains a symbol of intellectual leadership, principled nationalism, and civic mobilisation.
Why It Matters Today
Azikiwe’s life illustrates how organisation, vision, and civic engagement can overcome systemic constraints. Contemporary debates on federalism, national unity, and ethnic inclusion reflect challenges he addressed. His emphasis on education, dialogue, and ethical leadership continues to inform youth and political movements.
From journalist to nationalist leader and Nigeria’s first President, Nnamdi Azikiwe’s vision, intellect, and leadership were central to independence. Through the NCNC, public advocacy, and federalism, he helped transform Nigeria from a colonial territory into a sovereign nation. His ideals of unity, education, and governance remain relevant today.
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Author’s Note
This article examines Nnamdi Azikiwe’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s independence, detailing his leadership, vision, and enduring influence on national unity, governance, and civic engagement.
References
Coleman, James S. Nigeria: Background to Nationalism. University of California Press, 1958.
Sklar, Richard L. Nigerian Political Parties: Power in an Emergent African Nation. Princeton University Press, 1963.
Falola, Toyin & Heaton, Matthew M. A History of Nigeria. Cambridge University Press, 2008.
