Question

speech by Nnamdi Azikiwe on Nigerian self government (late 1950s)
what goals does the speaker believe independence will achieve?

Answer 1

Brief context: Nnamdi Azikiwe (“Zik”) was a leading Nigerian nationalist who, in speeches through the late 1950s as independence approached, argued that self‑government was not an end in itself but the means to achieve specific political, social and economic aims. Summarized below are the main goals he said independence would make possible (phrased as he argued them in that period).

1. Political self‑determination and sovereignty
- Control of Nigeria’s own affairs rather than rule by a foreign power; Nigerians making laws and setting policies for themselves.

2. National unity and integration
- Creating a cohesive Nigerian nation out of diverse ethnic, regional and religious groups; reducing factionalism and building a common identity.

3. Economic control and development
- Control over natural resources and economic policy; industrialization, investment, job creation and improved standards of living rather than an economy organized solely to serve colonial interests.

4. Social progress and widening opportunity
- Expansion of education, health care and social services so ordinary Nigerians could develop their talents and improve their lives.

5. Human dignity and psychological liberation
- Removing the stigma of colonial subordination so Nigerians could take pride in themselves and exercise full citizenship and civil rights.

6. Democratic institutions and rule of law
- Establishing representative government, accountable leadership, and institutions that protect rights and manage public affairs.

7. Equal opportunity and reduction of discrimination
- Promoting fairness across regions and groups, and tackling the inequalities fostered by colonial rule.

8. International recognition and independent foreign policy
- Taking a rightful place in the world community as a sovereign state able to pursue its own diplomatic and economic relations.

If you want, I can:
- Provide direct quotations from a specific Azikiwe speech (give me a date or title if you have one), or
- Locate primary sources (newspaper reprints, collected speeches, or archives) and give precise citations.