Azikiwe Made Sacrifices for Nigeria’s Unity, Says Ex-Niger Gov!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa
Former Niger State Governor, Dr. Babangida Aliyu, has praised Nigeria’s first president, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, for his selfless contributions to national unity. Speaking at the 6th Annual Zik Lecture in Abuja, Aliyu said Azikiwe made historic political sacrifices to hold the young Nigerian federation together.
“Zik could have taken another route, but he chose unity. He put Nigeria first,” Aliyu stated.
Key Highlights:
- Aliyu noted Azikiwe’s decision to accept a ceremonial presidency in the First Republic instead of clinging to regional power.
- He described Zik as a bridge-builder who championed pan-African ideals and democratic values.
- The lecture, themed “Nation Building in the Legacy of Zik”, drew political leaders, academics, and students.
Why It Matters:
- Azikiwe remains a symbol of Nigeria’s independence and nationalist struggle.
- The event reinforces conversations around leadership, unity, and historical memory.
- Nigeria continues to face regional and ethnic divisions that Zik once worked to resolve.
What to Watch:
- Renewed calls for curriculum reforms to teach national history.
- Political leaders invoking Zik’s legacy in debates over restructuring.
- More scholarly focus on early nationalist contributions.
Citations:
- Daily Trust – “Babangida Aliyu Hails Zik’s Sacrifices for Nigeria”
- Vanguard – “Zik Lecture: Remembering a Nationalist Legacy”
- Lecture Proceedings – 6th Annual Zik Lecture, Abuja (Nov. 2025)
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I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.