When I was assigned the topic "Earliest Nationalists in Nigeria" for my seminar presentation, I thought it would be one of those regular topics where you just pick names from a textbook and summarize their activities. But as I dug deeper into the historical context of Nigerian nationalism, I realized that what I was dealing with was not just a school seminar. It was a story of passion, courage, vision, and a fight for the soul of a nation that had not even existed formally at the time. These early nationalists laid the foundation of the country I now call home. They were not perfect, but their sacrifices remain unforgettable.
Standing in front of my seminar panel at the University of Uyo in the Faculty of Education, History Unit, I shared stories of individuals who, long before independence, dared to question colonial authority and seek a better life for their people. I began with Herbert Macaulay, a man often referred to as the father of Nigerian nationalism. Born in 1864, Macaulay used his Western education and background in civil engineering to confront colonial injustices. His activism was not only political, but also journalistic. Through his newspaper, the Lagos Daily News, he gave a voice to those who had none, challenging colonial decisions that ignored the welfare of Nigerians.
Another figure I explored during my seminar was Nnamdi Azikiwe, popularly known as Zik of Africa. He belonged to a generation of educated Africans who believed that liberation could come through intellectual engagement, mass mobilization, and political unity. Zik did not just write or protest, he built structures. He co-founded political parties like the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons, which brought different ethnic groups together in one strong voice against colonial rule. His belief in a united Nigeria inspired many of his contemporaries, and I felt proud sharing his vision during my defense.
Then came Obafemi Awolowo, a nationalist who approached liberation through a combination of political organization and education. He believed that ignorance was a tool of oppression, and so he used education as a weapon for emancipation. As the leader of the Action Group, he promoted policies like free primary education in Western Nigeria, which was a rare achievement at the time. During my presentation, I emphasized how Awolowo’s style of nationalism was rooted in both ideology and practical governance, which made him different from others but no less impactful.
I also spoke about Ahmadu Bello, who represented northern interests and played a crucial role in preparing the North for participation in national politics. Though many often associate Nigerian nationalism with southern voices, Bello’s contributions were equally significant. He understood the cultural and religious sensitivities of the North and made sure that any discussion about Nigeria’s future included all regions. His nationalist vision was built around cooperation and representation.
Another name that came up during my seminar was Margaret Ekpo, a woman from the Eastern region who proved that nationalism was not a men’s club. She fought not only for independence from colonial rule but also for the recognition of women’s rights in the political space. Sharing her story during my presentation was one of the most emotional parts of my seminar. As a young person and a student from a region close to where she came from, I felt inspired by how she refused to be silent in a time when women were often pushed aside.
During the seminar, I had to respond to tough questions from my lecturers about the differences between protest nationalism and constitutional nationalism. It made me realize that the nationalist movement in Nigeria was not a one-way traffic. There were different approaches, from the radical protests of groups like the Nigerian Youth Movement to the more structured, negotiation-based strategies of political elites. Yet they all aimed for one thing freedom and self-determination.
What made this experience powerful was that I was not just listing dates and names. I was reflecting on a real historical journey. These nationalists were not superheroes. They had their flaws, political disagreements, and different visions of what Nigeria should be. Some focused on ethnic interests. Others believed in broader unity. Some collaborated with the colonialists in the hope of gradual reform. Others wanted immediate change. Despite their differences, they formed the early chapters of Nigeria’s nationalist story.
As I concluded my presentation, I reminded my audience and myself that the nationalism of those early days was driven by purpose and sacrifice. It was not about selfish gain or political appointments. It was about reclaiming dignity for a people who had been ruled without consent. And as a history student from the Faculty of Education, I believe that we have a responsibility to pass these stories on, not just as academic work, but as living memory.
Looking back at my seminar defense, I felt proud. I had gone beyond the surface and told a story that still speaks to the heart of this nation. Nigerian nationalism did not start in 1960. It began long before, with the brave efforts of men and women who dared to dream, to speak, and to act. Their story is now mine to tell.
