“However, while we are thanking Mr President for this mausoleum, we also pray you to declare Zik’s birthday, November 16, a National Day in Nigeria. This will be in keeping with the honour and dignity conferred on other great African leaders of his calibre. For instance, Ghanaians mark every September 21 as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day. Similarly, October 14 is Julius Nyerere Day in Tanzania while July 18 is globally known as the Nelson Mandela Day.

It would therefore, be a thing of pride to all Africans if the federal government of Nigeria under you declares November 16 Nnamdi Azikiwe Memorial Day. It will be a day set aside for reflection on the life and times of the Great Zik and his Pan-Africanist struggles, his thoughts and philosophies. Your Excellency, I think that this gesture is long overdue.”

Governor Willie Obiano, speaking at the commissioning of Zik’s Mausoleum.

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