By Sandra Simon
Nigeria’s independence struggle was indeed a complex process that involved the sacrifices of various individuals, groups and even movements.
It was marked by a combination of peaceful protests, constitutional negotiations, activism and labour, which continually shape the country’s identity.
Some individuals and figures played significant roles in the struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
Below are five of them:
1. Herbert Macaulay
He is often regarded as the father of Nigerian nationalism. He was the founder of the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923 and was also a journalist.
He boldly challenged the British colonial masters after noticing the unfair taxation and land seizures.
Macaulay also used newspapers like Lagos Daily News to advocate for self-governance, dedicating his life to fighting colonial oppression and advocating for the rights of Nigerians.
2. Nnamdi Azikiwe
Nnamdi Azikiwe wasn’t just identified as a leading nationalist and journalist; he was also Nigeria’s first president in 1963 after serving as a key figure in negotiations and inspiring widespread political awareness.
Known as Zika of Africa, he founded the West African Pilot newspaper in 1937, which served as a powerful platform for anti-colonial propaganda and nationalist ideas.
With the aid of his editorials, he challenged the British masters and advocated national unity and self-governance.
His legacy extends beyond his political achievements as he inspired a generation of Nigerians to demand their rights and strive for independence and freedom.
3. Obafemi Awolowo
Obafemi Awolowo was a statesman and the founder of the Action Group Party in 1951. He seriously advocated for federalism to accommodate Nigeria’s ethnic diversity and used the Nigerian Tribune newspaper to rally support for self-rule.
He outlined his vision for a federal Nigeria in his book ‘Path to Nigerian Freedom’ published in 1947.
Awolowo implemented progressive policies, such as free primary education, healthcare development and economic development while holding several leadership positions.
4. Ahmadu Bello
Popularly known as the Sardauna of Sokoto, Ahmadu Bello was the leader of the Northern Peoples Congress (NPC).
His struggle was primarily focused on Nigeria’s liberty and promoting the interests of the Northern part of the country.
Bello worked tirelessly to modernise and unify the diverse people of Northern Nigeria, promoting regional autonomy and development. He also worked with other nationalist leaders to achieve national freedom.
His legacy was quite complex, with some viewing him as a champion of Northern Nigeria’s development.
5. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa was a skilled orator dubbed the ‘Golden Voice of Africa’. He was the country’s first Prime Minister, who played a significant role in negotiating with British colonial authorities and navigating the complex web of regional and ethnic tensions.
He was instrumental in bridging ethnic and regional divides, promoting national unity in the sense of shared identity amongst Nigerians.
Balewa represented Nigeria at international organisations like the United Nations and played a key role in forming the Organisation of African Unity (OAU).
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