Uche Azikiwe, widow of Nigeria’s first President Nnamdi Azikiwe, has described her late husband as a selfless leader who championed the interests of a united Nigeria.
She made the statement on Tuesday during an interview on Prime Time, where she reflected on his leadership qualities and character.
She explained that her marriage to the Pan Africanist was God’s plan, describing herself as a child of destiny for having been married to the first indigenous Governor General of Nigeria. According to her, the experience shaped her understanding of service, humility and national commitment.
Uche Azikiwe said her husband was a selfless leader and a good listener who always considered Nigeria as a whole before making decisions. She noted that he listened to everybody and would abandon any decision that might create problems for the people, choosing instead the option that guaranteed peace.
She recalled a personal example, explaining that when she failed to gain admission into the University of Nigeria, Nsukka due to a deficiency in Mathematics in her WAEC result, she thought her husband would intervene by contacting the Vice Chancellor. She said he refused to do so, and she had to wait another year, showing his fairness and unwillingness to misuse influence.
According to her, his deep love for one Nigeria made some people from the Southeast see him as someone who thought for Nigeria and not just the Igbo people. She added that such a perception was something he disliked, as he wanted the interest of Nigeria and Africa, not just that of the Igbo people.
She concluded that her husband’s values remain relevant today, noting that his selflessness and commitment to national unity continue to offer important lessons for contemporary governance.
