Herbert Macaulay

Herbert Macaulay (14 November 1864 – 7 May 1946) was a pioneering Nigerian nationalist, politician, engineer, architect, journalist, and musician, widely considered the founder of Nigerian nationalism. He established the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923, which was the first Nigerian political party.

Quotes

• The Nigerian National Democratic Party is not a party of a section of the community, it is a party of all Nigeria, designed to protect the rights of all citizens.
  • [1] Statement on the founding ideals of Nigeria's first political party, published in historical retrospectives by Independent Newspaper Nigeria.

• The dimensions of the true greatness of any nation are to be measured by the status of its citizens, the character of its institutions, and the wisdom of its leaders.
  • [2] From his editorial declarations in the Lagos Daily News, compiled in commemorative essays by The Guardian Nigeria.

• The standard of education must be elevated to meet the requirements of a progressive people who seek to manage their own affairs.
  • [3] From his public lectures on colonial educational reforms and administrative self-governance.

• We must resist any form of legislation that seeks to alienate the native peoples of Nigeria from their ancestral lands.
  • [4] Addressing the colonial land tenure bills during his legal and political campaigns in Lagos.

• True patriotism requires us to defend the rights of the weakest among us against the high-handedness of arbitrary power.
  • [5] From his political manifestos advocating for local traders and traditional rulers against colonial authorities.
• "Keep the flag flying."
  • Herbert Macaulay's final injunction to Nnamdi Azikiwe, as recorded in his last will and testament.

• "Mark time for four days—advance to victory, God's speed."
  • Herbert Macaulay's final instruction to the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC).

• "To every full-blooded African, I give and bequeath an annuity of 365 cheery days, 52 merry weeks and 12 happy months."
  • Herbert Macaulay expressing goodwill to Africans in his last will.

• "As the moustache and my bow tie are both parallel and inseparable on my dress and person; so shall they be at par, and united with their Southern brethren."
  • Herbert Macaulay calling for unity between Northern and Southern Nigerians in his last will.

• "I have had experience of a period of over half a century as a West African journalist in practical politics."
  • Herbert Macaulay reflecting on his public life in a handwritten memoir reproduced by The Nation.

Quotes about Herbert Macaulay

• This year makes 80 years since the passing of Herbert Macaulay, the father of Nigerian nationalism. We honour his courage, foresight and unwavering commitment to justice and self-determination. His legacy reminds us that nation-building begins with speaking truth to power and putting people first. May his ideals continue to inspire us toward a stronger, united Nigeria.
  • Aale of Okeelerin, Ogbomoso,Oba Samuel Babatunde Oyebamiji Amao II Monarch: immortalise Hebert Macaulay

• Macaulay is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political history whose contributions to nationalism and civic engagement continue to inspire generations.
  • Gladstone Macaulay Lagos to host activities marking Herbert Macaulay’s 80th remembrance anniversary

• We thank Mr President (President Bola Tinubu) for the state pardon, but are not pleased with how it was lumped with other convicted characters. Lumping him with all manners of characters is a little bit unfair. If he (Macaulay) is to be honoured, he should be honoured independently.
  • Honour Herbert Macaulay separately, descendants tell Tinubu

• One of the greatest ways to honour Macaulay’s legacy is by investing in the education of our people. It is through education that we nurture informed citizens, develop visionary leaders and build a prosperous nation.
  • President Bola Tinubu 80th Anniversary: Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu hail Herbert Macaulay’s legacy

External links

• Media related to Herbert Macaulay on Wikimedia Commons