Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, Bode George To Nigerians: Emulate Herbert Macaulay ‘s Leadership Qualities

…He never discriminated against any tribe – Gen. Nwachukwu

President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode Ibiyinka George, have urged Nigerians to emulate the leadership qualities of foremost nationalist, Herbert Macaulay.

Speaking at the 80th remembrance anniversary of the death of Nigeria’s foremost nationalist in Lagos on Sunday, Tinubu, who was represented by Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof Folashade Ogunshola, said Macaulay’s name is permanently etched in the history of Nigeria.

Tinubu said Macaulay was a visionary leader, an uncompromising patriot and a fearless advocate for justice and self-determination.

He said: “He was one the most influential in Nigeria struggle against colonial masters. His life of courage, sacrifice and service laid the foundation for the nationalist movement that ultimately led to Nigeria’s independence.

“As we reflect on his remarkable legacy, we are reminded that nation-building is sustained by visionary leadership, responsible citizenship and an enduring commitment to the common good.”

On his part, Governor Sanwo-Olu said Macaulay name, especially the Herbert Macaulay family name, is not a dying name.

Sanwo-Olu said: “We feel proud that it is in our time that the descendants and the family can celebrate 80 years remembrance of this great icon who lived for about 82 years at that time; who was the grandson of Bishop Ajayi Crowder.

“And so you can see that this is a family and a name that has long history, that has helped us build what we are all enjoying today as a nation.

“Because if there is no yesterday, there can never be a today, and tomorrow will begin to rewrite long history.

“So we need to remember how we got to where we are. And so I want to thank you for coming together, for remembering a name like Herbert Macaulay, and for bringing everybody together.

“And it’s not who you are today, it’s what people reflect on who you are when you leave office. And my prayer is also that history will be kind to me.

“That’s why we’ll continue to reference him, we’ll continue to acknowledge him everywhere we go. And so for me, I feel truly honoured and proud that we can continue to identify with a man that passed on 80 years ago.”

In delivering the keynote address, Chief Bode George, said whenever the name Herbert Macaulay is mentioned, one description immediately comes to mind: ‘The Father of Nigerian Nationalism.’

George said while Nigeria has made undeniable progress since independence, there remain challenges that continue to test our national resolve.

The Atona Oodua said: “Indeed, there are moments when one imagines that Herbert Macaulay would view some of our present realities with profound concern.

“The Father of Nigerian Nationalism fought for representation, accountability, justice, and the supremacy of the public interest over personal ambition.

“He fought against exclusion. He fought against arbitrary power. He fought against systems that denied ordinary people a meaningful voice in determining their future.

“Were he to observe some of the challenges confronting Nigeria today—the persistence of insecurity, the erosion of public trust, concerns about the strength and independence of institutions, and the frustrations of many citizens—he would undoubtedly remind us that nation-building requires more than political rhetoric.

“It requires courage. It requires integrity. It requires institutions strong enough to withstand pressure.And it requires leaders willing to place country above self.

“Not because Nigeria has failed. But because Nigeria has not yet fully become all that it has the capacity to be. And that unfinished task now belongs to us.”

On his part, former Minister of External Affairs, General Ike Nwachukwu (Rtd), said Macaulay was a detribalised Nigerian.

General Nwachukwu said Macaulay treated all Nigerians equally without discrimination.

He said: “I was about six years old when the legend died. Men of this calibre founded our country, Nigeria; men of integrity, committed and dedicated.

“They were educated. He founded National Council of the Nigeria and Cameroons. 80 years after, there’s discrimination and ethnic rivalry now. Nigeria shall be great again. Politicians are playing with our destinies.”