Widow of Nigeria’s first President Nnamdi Azikiwe, Professor Uche Azikiwe, has shared insights into her late husband’s life, leadership, and enduring legacy, describing him as a selfless leader whose decisions were always guided by the broader interests of Nigeria.
Speaking during an interview with ARISE NEWS on Tuesday, Professor Azikiwe recounted how she came to marry the national icon in 1973, describing it as “God’s plan” and reflecting on her humble upbringing in a military barracks across Calabar, Enugu, and Lagos. “Growing up in the barracks, I had no contact whatsoever with such a person. So, as God had planned it, everything happens according to His plan,” she said.
She recalled the unusual circumstances of their meeting, which involved a scholarship opportunity awarded to her and her sister by Azikiwe’s administration. “Most of us got married. Most of us died. So, if we are alive and we want to continue, we are free,” she explained.
Professor Azikiwe emphasised her late husband’s selflessness and dedication to service. “Zik was very selfless. He was a good listener. He listens to everybody around their views and then decisions will be taken,” she said. “He loved to serve. If whatever he wanted would create problems for the majority, he would prefer peace and the will of the people.”
On his approach to education, Professor Azikiwe credited Azikiwe’s scholarship and support for her own personal development. “I went back to school because I wanted to be myself. I wanted to be independent. I wanted to serve my people,” she said, reflecting on her persistence to complete her studies despite obstacles.
She also highlighted Azikiwe’s commitment to Nigerian unity over regional interests. “He was thinking of the broader, bigger, wider country, not just himself or the South East. There is no way a part of Nigeria can progress alone. It is when we come together, as one Nigeria, that we move forward,” she said.
Professor Azikiwe reflected on pivotal historical decisions made by her husband, including his strategic political compromises. “Compromise was key. Even when it felt like it was his birthright, he compromised for the greater good—not just for himself or his family, but for everybody,” she said. She cited examples such as his role in Nigeria’s independence, stating, “If he had insisted, there would have been no Nigeria, there would have been no independence.”
On contemporary Nigeria, Professor Azikiwe expressed support for restructuring as a way to address current national challenges, echoing her late husband’s vision for inclusivity and national cohesion.
She also called for continued commemoration of Azikiwe’s legacy, noting achievements such as the international airport named after him and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, while urging further initiatives to honour his sacrifices.
“His life teaches us that leadership is about compromise, service, and thinking beyond oneself,” she concluded. “Peace and unity come from prioritising the greater good over individual interests.”
Boluwatife Enome
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