Nnamdi Benjamin Azikiwe (Owelle Onitsha) also referred to as “Zik”, was a statesman and political leader who served as the first President of Nigeria from 1963 to 1966.
Considered a driving force behind the nation’s independence, he came to be known as the “father of Nigerian Nationalism”.
He is the most immortalised Igbo guy, as well as one of the most immortalised Nigerians and Africans.
Streets and roads are named after him in cities across Nigeria, namely Lagos, Owerri, Aba, Calabar, Kaduna, Abuja, Awka, Port Harcourt, Umuahia, Onitsha etc.
His picture is on the ₦500 note.
The standard stadium in Enugu is named after him.
See also Today in History: Ex-Zambian President, Kenneth Kaunda was born
The Federal University at Awka is also named after him.
(Nnamdi Azikiwe University)
The Airport at Abuja is named after him.
An annual lecture series is held in his honour each year.
A Mausoleum is also built-in his native Onitsha town in his memory and honour.
His post humus birthday is celebrated annually.
He died on 11th May 1996, aged 91, at UNTH Enugu.
He was the great Zik of Africa!
