Tinubu, Sambo, and Others to Attend Zik's Birthday Lecture

President Bola Tinubu, former Vice-President Mohammed Namadi Sambo, the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and other notable Nigerians will be at the 7th Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Award Lecture in Abuja on Monday.

This event will take place on November 16, 2026. It will mark the 122nd posthumous birthday of Nigeria’s first President, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe.

Chineme Onyeke, the Director-General of the organizing body, shared a statement on Sunday. He mentioned that Sambo will be the chairman of the event, while Sanusi will serve as the Royal Father of the Day.

The statement also noted that Abbas Umar Masanawa, a former Managing Director of the Nigeria Security Printing and Minting Plc, is leading the planning for the event.

Other notable guests expected at the lecture include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; former Niger State Governor, Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu; former Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha; Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume; former Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen; and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Also on the guest list are the First Lady of Cross River State, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu; former First Lady of Ogun State, Olufunso Amosun; and the Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Nonye Ayeni.

The theme of the lecture is “Preserving the Unity of Nigeria: Leadership, Peace and National Cohesion in a Changing Political Landscape.”

This annual lecture aims to uphold Azikiwe’s ideals and honor his contributions to Nigerian nationalism, African liberation, journalism, education, and nation-building.

Onyeke spoke about the event ahead of time. He said it will be a chance to renew commitment to patriotism, national unity, and visionary leadership.

“The event represents an opportunity to renew our national commitment to the ideals of patriotism, unity, peaceful coexistence, and visionary leadership,” Onyeke explained.

He added that celebrating Azikiwe should go beyond just remembering his historical contributions. It is important that his philosophy continues to inspire both present and future generations.

“Celebrating Zik should not be limited to remembering his historical contributions. We must also ensure that his philosophy continues to inspire present and future generations,” he stated.

The program will also recognize individuals whose efforts in public service, leadership, enterprise, peace, and national development reflect Azikiwe’s values.

The event will take place at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, starting from 10am.