80th Anniversary: Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu hail Herbert Macaulay’s legacy

President Bola Tinubu has stated that investing in education is the most effective way to preserve the legacy of Nigeria's foremost nationalist, Herbert Macaulay. Speaking at the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Macaulay's passing, Tinubu urged Nigerians to collectively prepare the country's young population for future leadership roles.

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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.

Represented by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, the President described Macaulay as a fearless patriot whose activism laid the groundwork for Nigeria's independence. Tinubu affirmed his administration's commitment to transforming the education sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda, viewing education as the cornerstone of national development. He highlighted Nigeria's large youth population, noting that failure to educate them could lead to a significant crisis.

"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," Tinubu said. He stressed that this responsibility extends beyond the government, requiring active participation from families and individuals to ensure quality education for the youth.

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Let me remind us that the average age of a Nigerian is 19 years. We have a huge youth population. If they are not educated, we are going to have a major crisis in the future.

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, delivered the keynote address, asserting that Macaulay's vision of an accountable and just Nigeria remains largely unfulfilled. George urged leaders to reinforce democratic institutions and adhere to the rule of law. He recognized Macaulay as the father of organized democratic politics in Nigeria, citing the establishment of the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923 as the start of organized political participation.

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This responsibility cannot be left to the government alone. Every one of us must play a role, especially within our families, to ensure that our young people receive quality education and are prepared for the future.

George described Macaulay as the "Father of Nigerian Nationalism," a title earned through courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to justice and representation for Nigerians under colonial rule. He added that Macaulay's experiences in the colonial civil service exposed him to systemic injustice, motivating his advocacy for Nigerians' rights despite facing harassment.

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The greatest monument to Herbert Macaulay is a Nigeria governed by justice, where institutions are stronger than individuals, leadership remains accountable and democracy is protected.