President Bola Tinubu emphasized on Sunday that prioritizing education is the most effective method to uphold the values of Herbert Macaulay, Nigeria’s pioneering nationalist. Speaking during the 80th anniversary of Macaulay’s death, the President, represented by University of Lagos Vice Chancellor Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, praised the late activist as a brave leader whose work established the groundwork for the nation’s independence.
Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the administration views education as the primary driver for national growth. President Tinubu highlighted the urgency of training Nigeria’s large youth population, noting that the median age is only 19. He stressed that preparing these citizens for future leadership roles is a collective duty that extends beyond government efforts.
Chief Olabode George, a former PDP leader, delivered the keynote address, characterizing Macaulay as the architect of organized democratic politics. He noted that the founding of the Nigerian National Democratic Party in 1923 was a landmark moment for political engagement. George called for stronger democratic institutions and greater accountability to fully realize the vision of a just nation that Macaulay fought for.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also lauded the statesman’s significant impact on Nigeria’s political development. He committed to supporting further efforts to honor Macaulay’s memory and suggested that the federal government should provide him with increased national acknowledgement.
Former Foreign Affairs Minister, Maj. Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (retd), served as the event’s chairman and expressed regret that the vision of a unified, equitable Nigeria remains unfulfilled. He encouraged citizens to overcome tribal and religious barriers to pursue national cohesion. The event was attended by various notable figures, including Vanguard publisher Sam Amuka-Pemu and SDP presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo.
