The Role of the Anglican Church in the Development of Nigerian Indigenous Language

This study looks at the significant roles the Anglican Church's has played and commitment to education, translation, worship, publishing, and research


INTRODUCTION
The Anglican Church has played a significant role in the development of Nigerian indigenous languages, particularly through its efforts in education and translation.Here are some ways in which the Anglican Church has contributed to the development of Nigerian indigenous languages: 1. Education: The Anglican Church established numerous schools and educational institutions across Nigeria.These schools played a crucial role in promoting literacy and the use of indigenous languages.In the early years, missionaries from the Anglican Church taught in local languages, helping to develop reading and writing skills among the population.This contributed to the preservation and promotion of indigenous languages.2. Translation of the Bible: The Anglican Church played a major role in translating the Bible into various Nigerian indigenous languages.Missionaries, often associated with the Anglican Church, dedicated significant efforts to translating the Bible from English into local languages.This helped make the Christian scriptures accessible to the local population and contributed to the development and standardization of written forms of indigenous languages.3. Liturgy and Worship: The Anglican Church embraced the use of indigenous languages in its liturgy and worship services.While English remained an important language in the Anglican Church, local languages were incorporated to reach and engage the local population.This practice helped elevate the status of indigenous languages and encouraged their use in religious contexts.4. Publishing and Print Media: The Anglican Church played a vital role in establishing publishing houses and print media outlets that produced materials in indigenous languages.These publications included religious texts, hymnals, educational materials, and literature.By promoting literacy and providing reading materials in local languages, the Anglican Church supported the growth and development of indigenous languages.5. Language Documentation and Research: Anglican missionaries often took an interest in documenting and researching Nigerian indigenous languages.They studied local languages, documented their grammar, vocabulary, and cultural contexts, and produced linguistic studies and dictionaries.These efforts contributed to the preservation, understanding, and development of Nigerian indigenous languages.

LITERATURE REVIEW
Overall, the Anglican Church's commitment to education, translation, worship, publishing, and research has significantly impacted the development of Nigerian indigenous languages.Its efforts have fostered literacy, standardized written forms, provided access to religious texts, and encouraged the use and appreciation of indigenous languages among the Nigerian population.

METHODOLOGY The Anglican Church role in media house and publication house in Nigeria
The Anglican Church in Nigeria has played a significant role in the establishment and operation of media houses and publication houses in the country.These endeavors have served as platforms for disseminating information, promoting education, and spreading the Christian faith.Through these media houses and publication houses, the Anglican Church in Nigeria aims to fulfil its mission of spreading the gospel, educating the public, and providing a Christian perspective on various issues.These platforms also serve as tools for promoting social development, addressing social challenges, and advocating for justice and equality.

The First Newspaper in Nigeria as Work of the Early Christian Missionary
The first newspaper in Nigeria, known as "Iwe Irohin," was indeed the work of early Christian missionaries.It was established by Reverend Henry Townsend, a British missionary of the Church Missionary Society (CMS), in Abeokuta, Nigeria, in June 1859."Iwe Irohin" means "the newspaper" in Yoruba, one of the major languages spoken in Nigeria.The newspaper was printed in both English and Yoruba languages, reflecting the aim of the missionaries to reach a wider audience.
The publication served as a platform for the dissemination of information, education, and Christian teachings.It covered a range of topics, including news, religious content, educational material, and general interest articles.It played a significant role in promoting literacy and creating awareness among the Nigerian population."Iwe Irohin" was handwritten initially, but in 1862, the missionaries introduced a printing press to improve the efficiency of production.The newspaper continued to be published until 1884 when it faced financial difficulties and eventually ceased operation.
The establishment of "Iwe Irohin" marked a significant milestone in Nigerian history, as it was the first regular newspaper published in the country.It laid the foundation for future media development and the growth of journalism in Nigeria.Moreover, it showcased the early Christian missionaries' commitment to education, literacy, and the dissemination of knowledge in the region.

The CMS Role in the Early Days Media and Publication Work
The Church Missionary Society (CMS) played a crucial role in the early days of media and publication work in Nigeria.As a prominent Christian missionary organization, the CMS recognized the power of media in spreading the gospel, educating the population, and effecting social change.Here are some key contributions of the CMS in this area: Establishment of Newspapers: The CMS missionaries were pioneers in establishing newspapers in Nigeria.Reverend Henry Townsend, associated with the CMS, founded the first newspaper, "Iwe Irohin," in 1859.The CMS missionaries recognized the importance of communicating with the local population in their native languages and published the newspaper in both English and Yoruba, making it accessible to a wider audience.
1. Promotion of Education: The CMS missionaries strongly emphasized education as part of their mission work.They established schools and printing presses, which became platforms for producing educational materials such as textbooks, readers, and pamphlets.These publications played a crucial role in promoting literacy, especially among the local population.2. Translation and Publishing of Religious Texts: The CMS missionaries also undertook the translation and publication of religious texts.They translated the Bible and hymnals into local languages, making them more accessible and understandable to the people.These translated texts were then printed and distributed through the CMS printing presses, facilitating the spread of Christianity in Nigeria.3. Establishment of Publishing Houses: The CMS missionaries set up publishing houses to support their media and publication efforts.These publishing houses, such as the CMS Printing Press, produced a wide range of materials, including religious literature, textbooks, hymnals, and newspapers.They became centres for printing, distribution, and dissemination of knowledge and information.
The CMS's involvement in media and publication work reflected its holistic approach to mission, encompassing evangelism, education, and social transformation.The establishment of newspapers, schools, and publishing houses by the CMS missionaries laid the foundation for the development of media and publishing in Nigeria, contributing significantly to education, literacy, and the growth of Christianity in the country.

RESULT AND DISCUSSION Great Politicians from the Anglican Church and their Inputs to Politics in Nigeria Development
The Anglican Church in Nigeria has played a significant role in the country's political development, and several prominent politicians from the church have made noteworthy contributions.Here are some great politicians from the Anglican Church in Nigeria and their inputs to politics and development: a) Olusegun Obasanjo: Olusegun Obasanjo is a prominent Nigerian statesman and former President of Nigeria who served two nonconsecutive terms (1999)(2000)(2001)(2002)(2003)(2004)(2005)(2006)(2007) It's important to note that Obasanjo's contributions to Nigerian politics are subject to different interpretations and have been the subject of debate and criticism.While he made significant strides in certain areas, challenges such as corruption, ethnic tensions, and socioeconomic inequality persisted during his time in office and beyond.

Inputs and Impact of Nnamdi Azikwe in Development of Nigeria Politics
Nnamdi Azikiwe, popularly known as "Zik," was a prominent Nigerian nationalist and politician who played a significant role in the development of Nigerian politics.While Azikiwe's religious affiliation was not limited to one particular denomination, he had a close association with Christianity, including the Anglican Church.Here's a look at the impact of Azikiwe's religious beliefs and his contributions to the development of Nigeria's politics: a) Advocacy for Nigerian Nationalism: Azikiwe was a strong advocate for Nigerian nationalism and worked tirelessly to unite the diverse ethnic and religious groups in the country.In summary, Nnamdi Azikiwe's religious beliefs, influenced by his Christian values, shaped his political ideology and the development of Nigerian politics.He was a staunch advocate for Nigerian nationalism, used journalism to promote political awareness, founded influential political organizations, demonstrated strong leadership qualities, and fostered interfaith harmony.Azikiwe's contributions to Nigeria's politics and development continue to be celebrated as he played a vital role in the country's journey towards independence and the establishment of a democratic system.

Inputs and Impacts of Herbert Macaulay in the Development of Nigeria Politics
Herbert Macaulay was a Nigerian nationalist and is often referred to as the "Father of Nigerian Nationalism."He was a prominent politician and activist during the colonial era.While Macaulay's religious affiliation is not explicitly documented, he had close ties to the Anglican Church and participated in its activities.Macaulay's contributions to Nigerian politics include mobilizing the masses, championing civil rights, and fighting for social justice.He played a vital role in establishing political organizations that paved the way for Nigeria's independence.
Herbert Macaulay played a significant role in the development of Nigeria's politics during the colonial era.He was a pioneering Nigerian nationalist, social reformer, and politician who fought for the rights and welfare of the Nigerian people.
One of Macaulay's key contributions was his efforts in mobilizing the Nigerian populace and raising political awareness among the people.He established the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923, which was the first Nigerian political party, with the aim of giving Nigerians a platform to express their political aspirations and challenge colonial rule.Through the NNDP, Macaulay organized political rallies, public meetings, and campaigns to educate Nigerians about their rights and advocate for self-governance.
Macaulay also used his skills as a journalist and writer to disseminate his political ideas and critique colonial policies.He founded the Lagos Daily News in 1925, which became a powerful medium for expressing his nationalist views and promoting the interests of the Nigerian people.Through his writings, he highlighted issues such as unfair taxation, inadequate representation, and social injustices, which resonated with Nigerians and galvanized them to demand political reforms.
Furthermore, Macaulay was involved in various political movements and campaigns that aimed to advance the cause of Nigeria's independence.He led protests against the imposition of high taxes on Nigerians, and his activism helped to secure some concessions from the colonial administration.He also campaigned for improved education and economic opportunities for Nigerians, advocating for the inclusion of Nigerians in key positions within the civil service.
Macaulay's contributions to Nigerian politics extended beyond his lifetime.His legacy as a nationalist and political activist inspired future generations of Nigerian leaders who continued the struggle for independence.His efforts laid the foundation for the emergence of political parties and organizations that fought for Nigeria's self-governance, leading ultimately to Nigeria's independence in 1960.
In summary, Herbert Macaulay played a pivotal role in Nigeria's political development by mobilizing the masses, establishing the first Nigerian political party, using the media to propagate his ideas, and advocating for political reforms and self-governance.His contributions were instrumental in raising political consciousness among Nigerians and paving the way for Nigeria's independence from colonial rule.

Input of Peter Akinola in the Development of Nigeria Politics and Nation Building
Peter Akinola, a prominent Nigerian religious leader, served as the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, from 2000 to 2010.While he primarily focused on religious affairs, his influence extended to the development of Nigeria's politics and nation-building process in several ways: Moral and Ethical Guidance: Akinola consistently advocated for moral and ethical principles in Nigerian society, including politics.He emphasized the importance of integrity, honesty, and accountability among political leaders, urging them to uphold these values in their actions and decision-making processes.Through his sermons and public addresses, Akinola encouraged Nigerians to reject corruption and embrace ethical leadership, which contributed to shaping the public discourse on governance.a) Socio-Political Engagement: Akinola actively engaged in socio-political issues affecting Nigeria.He was known for his outspokenness on matters of national importance, including governance, human rights, and social justice.Akinola utilized his platform to address political leaders, urging them to prioritize the welfare and well-being of Nigerians.His involvement in national conversations helped raise awareness and push for positive changes in the political landscape.b) Advocacy for Good Governance: Akinola consistently called for good governance in Nigeria.He emphasized the need for transparent and accountable leadership, democratic principles, and respect for the rule of law.Through public statements and engagements with political actors, Akinola advocated for reforms that would enhance democratic processes, curb corruption, and foster socioeconomic development in the country.c) Mediation and Conflict Resolution: Nigeria has faced various internal conflicts, including religious and ethnic tensions.As a religious leader with influence across the country, Akinola played a role in promoting peace, reconciliation, and conflict resolution.He actively mediated between conflicting parties, encouraging dialogue and fostering understanding.His efforts aimed to build bridges and reduce divisions, contributing to the stability and unity of the nation.d) Education and Social Welfare: Akinola recognized the significance of education and social welfare in nation-building.He advocated for improved access to quality education, particularly in marginalized communities, as a means to empower individuals and promote socioeconomic development.Additionally, he championed initiatives aimed at providing healthcare services, poverty alleviation, and social support systems for the less privileged.
It is important to note that Peter Akinola's influence in Nigeria's politics and nation building primarily stemmed from his role as a religious leader and his engagement in broader social issues.While he did not hold a formal political position, his moral authority and advocacy contributed to shaping the national discourse and influencing the actions of political leaders and citizens alike.

Inputs of General Yakubu Gowon in the Development of Nigeria Politics
General Yakubu Gowon, the former Head of State of Nigeria, made significant contributions to the development of Nigeria's politics during his tenure.Here are some of his key inputs: a) Unification and Stability: Gowon came to power in Nigeria during a period of intense political unrest and the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War (1967War ( -1970)).One of his primary objectives was to restore peace, stability, and national unity.He implemented policies to foster reconciliation, promote dialogue, and address the underlying causes of the conflict.Gowon's commitment to national unity played a crucial role in preventing the disintegration of Nigeria and laying the foundation for post-war development.b) Implementation of the "Three Rs": Gowon introduced the concept of the "Three Rs" -Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Reconciliation -as a blueprint for post-war recovery.This initiative aimed to rebuild the wartorn regions, reintegrate displaced persons, and foster reconciliation among the various ethnic and religious groups.The implementation of the "Three Rs" contributed to the restoration of infrastructure, the revitalization of the economy, and the healing of social divisions.c) Economic Development: Under Gowon's leadership, Nigeria experienced a period of economic growth and development.He initiated the National Development Plan, which focused on diversifying the economy, promoting agriculture, and expanding industries.Gowon also established the Nigerian National Oil Corporation (NNOC) and implemented policies to harness Nigeria's oil wealth for national development.His emphasis on economic progress and development laid the groundwork for Nigeria's emergence as a major player in the global economy.d) Promotion of National Identity: Gowon recognized the importance of forging a strong national identity and fostering a sense of patriotism among Nigerians.He introduced the "Go on with One Nigeria" campaign, which aimed to promote national unity, discourage tribalism and sectionalism, and foster a sense of belonging among Nigerians.This campaign sought to strengthen the bond between the diverse ethnic and religious groups in Nigeria and instil a shared commitment to the nation's progress.e) Democratization Process: As Head of State, Gowon initiated a process of transition towards civilian rule.He introduced the idea of "Gowon's Transition Program" to return Nigeria to democratic governance.Although he was eventually overthrown before the completion of the transition, his efforts laid the foundation for subsequent democratic transitions in Nigeria.
Overall, General Yakubu Gowon's inputs in the development of Nigeria's politics include his commitment to national unity, his implementation of post-war reconstruction and economic development programs, his promotion of a strong national identity, and his initiation of the democratization process.His leadership during a critical period in Nigeria's history contributed significantly to the stabilization and progress of the country.

Inputs of Alex Ekwueme in the Development of Nigeria Politics
Dr. Alex Ekwueme was a prominent Nigerian politician and statesman who made significant contributions to the development of Nigeria's politics.Here are some of his key inputs: Overall, Alex Ekwueme's inputs in the development of Nigeria's politics include his advocacy for true federalism, his role in the drafting of the 1979 Constitution, his leadership in political parties, his focus on economic development, and his promotion of social justice and education.His contributions to Nigerian politics have left a lasting impact on the country's governance and continue to shape the political discourse today.

Inputs of Ernest Shonekan in the Development of Nigeria Politics
Ernest Shonekan, a Nigerian businessman and statesman, briefly served as the Interim President of Nigeria from August to November 1993.Although his tenure was short, he made some notable inputs to the development of Nigeria's politics.Here are a few key contributions of Ernest Shonekan: a) Transition to Civilian Rule: Shonekan's appointment as Interim President followed the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential elections, which were widely considered as the freest and fairest in Nigeria's history.His mandate was to oversee the transition to civilian rule.While in office, he worked towards restoring public confidence in the political process and creating an environment conducive to democratic governance.b) Economic Reforms: Shonekan's background as a successful businessman influenced his approach to governance.He initiated economic reforms aimed at addressing Nigeria's economic challenges, including tackling corruption and implementing policies to attract foreign investments.He also focused on improving the business environment, encouraging entrepreneurship, and promoting private sector participation in the economy.c) Dialogue and Conflict Resolution: Shonekan recognized the need for dialogue and reconciliation to address Nigeria's political and ethnic divisions.He established the National Committee on Political Reforms to foster dialogue among various political stakeholders and address contentious issues.His emphasis on inclusive dialogue and conflict resolution set the stage for future efforts towards national reconciliation in Nigeria.d) Advocacy for Good Governance: Shonekan emphasized the importance of good governance and ethical leadership.He sought to promote transparency, accountability, and the rule of law during his time in office.His advocacy for good governance laid the groundwork for subsequent administrations to prioritize these principles in Nigeria's political landscape.e) Smooth Transition to the Next Government: Shonekan's peaceful handover of power to the military regime of General Sani Abacha demonstrated his commitment to the democratic process and stability in Nigeria.Although his tenure was short-lived, his smooth transition set a precedent for the peaceful transfer of power in subsequent administrations.
While Shonekan's time as Interim President was brief, his inputs in the development of Nigeria's politics include his efforts towards the transition to civilian rule, economic reforms, dialogue and conflict resolution, advocacy for good governance, and facilitating a smooth transfer of power.Despite the challenges faced during his tenure, his contributions reflect his commitment to the welfare and progress of Nigeria.
These are just a few examples of great politicians from the Anglican Church in Nigeria and their inputs to politics and development.The Anglican Church, through its members and leaders, has played a crucial role in shaping Nigerian politics, advocating for social justice, promoting democracy, and working towards national development.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Nation building and politics in Nigeria have been studied and analyzed by numerous scholars and researchers.Here are some notable references and scholars that have contributed to the understanding of these topics: a) Chinua Achebe: Achebe is a renowned Nigerian author and scholar whose work explores various aspects of Nigerian society and politics.His novel "Things Fall Apart" provides insights into the impact of colonialism and the challenges of nation building in Nigeria.b) Richard Joseph: Richard Joseph is a political scientist and expert on Nigerian politics.He has written extensively on issues such as democratization, governance, and state-building in Nigeria.His book "Democracy and Prebendal Politics in Nigeria" is a seminal work on the subject.c) Claude Ake: Ake was a Nigerian political scientist known for his work on political economy and democratization in Africa.His book "Democracy and Development in Africa" offers a critical analysis of the challenges faced by African countries, including Nigeria, in their nationbuilding efforts.d) Wole Soyinka: Soyinka is a renowned Nigerian playwright, poet, and essayist.His works often touch on political themes and provide insights into Nigerian society and politics.His book "The Man Died: Prison Notes" offers a personal account of his experiences during the Nigerian Civil War and reflects on the challenges of nation building.e) Adebayo Adedeji: Adedeji was a Nigerian economist and statesman who served in various capacities, including as the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.He has written extensively on development issues in Africa, including nation building and governance challenges.f) Rotimi Suberu: Suberu is a Nigerian political scientist whose research focuses on federalism, ethnicity, and political stability in Nigeria.His book "Federalism and Ethnic Conflict in Nigeria" explores the dynamics of power-sharing and resource allocation in Nigeria's federal system.g) Carl Levan: Levan is a political scientist who specializes in African politics, with a focus on Nigeria.His book "Nigeria: What Everyone Needs to Know" provides an accessible overview of Nigeria's history, politics, and challenges in nation building.h) Bud Raufu Mustapha: Mustapha is a Nigerian political scientist and anthropologist who has written extensively on Nigerian politics and governance.His book "Sects & Social Disorder: Muslim Identities & Conflict in Northern Nigeria" explores the role of religion and identity in Nigerian politics.
These scholars and their works offer valuable insights into the complexities of nation building and politics in Nigeria.

FURTHER STUDY
This research still has limitations so further research needs to be done on this topic "The Role of the Anglican Church in the Development of Nigerian Indigenous Language." a) Advocacy for True Federalism: Ekwueme was a strong advocate for true federalism in Nigeria.He championed the restructuring of the country's political system to grant more autonomy to the states and ensure a fair distribution of resources and power.Ekwueme's efforts to promote true federalism helped shape the discourse on governance in Nigeria and contributed to the ongoing discussions and debates on restructuring the country.b) Role in the 1979 Constitution: Ekwueme played a vital role in the drafting of the 1979 Constitution of Nigeria as the Chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee.The constitution aimed to provide a framework for democratic governance, protect human rights, and establish checks and balances within the government.Ekwueme's leadership in this process demonstrated his commitment to institutionalizing democratic principles in Nigeria.c) Leadership in Political Parties: Ekwueme was a founding member of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and played a crucial role in shaping the party's ideology and structure.He served as the party's Vice-Presidential candidate in the 1999 general elections, which marked Nigeria's return to democratic rule.Ekwueme's involvement in political parties contributed to the development of a multi-party system and the promotion of democratic governance in Nigeria.d) Economic Development Initiatives: Ekwueme recognized the importance of economic development in nation-building.He advocated for policies that promoted industrialization, job creation, and economic empowerment.As the Vice President of Nigeria from 1979 to 1983, Ekwueme contributed to the formulation and implementation of economic plans aimed at diversifying the Nigerian economy and reducing dependence on oil revenues.e) Promotion of Social Justice and Education: Ekwueme believed in the power of education to drive social and economic development.He advocated for equal access to quality education for all Nigerians, regardless of their socio-economic background.Ekwueme also championed social justice initiatives, including the fight against corruption and the protection of human rights.
Here are some notable examples: a) Anglican Media House: The Anglican Church in Nigeria established its media house known as the Anglican Cable Network Nigeria (ACNN) in 2006.ACNN operates a television station that broadcasts religious programs, news, and other content across Nigeria.The media house aims to provide informative and educational programs while promoting Christian values.b) Publication Houses: The Anglican Church in Nigeria has also been involved in the publication of books, magazines, and other print materials.The church operates its own publishing house known as the Anglican Press, which produces various materials including Bibles, hymnals, prayer books, and theological literature.
c) Newspapers and Magazines: The Anglican Church in Nigeria has been associated with the establishment of newspapers and magazines that cater to the Christian community.One notable example is "Church Times Nigeria," a weekly newspaper that provides news, features, and analysis related to the church and Christianity in Nigeria.d) Radio Stations: The Anglican Church has also been involved in radio broadcasting through its radio stations.These stations often feature religious programming, including sermons, Bible studies, and devotional content, as well as news and other informative shows.
) Economic Reforms: Obasanjo implemented economic reforms to promote growth and development in Nigeria.His administration focused on diversifying the economy beyond oil, promoting private sector investment, and attracting foreign direct investment.These efforts led to improvements in sectors such as telecommunications, banking, and agriculture.e) Anti-Corruption Campaign: Obasanjo launched a high-profile anticorruption campaign, making it a priority of his administration.He established the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) to investigate and prosecute corrupt practices.While the effectiveness and impartiality of these institutions have been debated, the campaign brought the issue of corruption to the forefront of national discourse.f) Diplomatic Engagements: Obasanjo played an active role in regional and international diplomacy.He mediated in various conflicts in Africa, including the Liberian and Sierra Leonean civil wars.
. Although he is not exclusively associated with the Anglican Church, he is a member of the church and has been actively involved in its activities.Obasanjo's contributions to Nigerian politics include promoting democracy, economic reforms, and infrastructural development.During his tenure, he implemented policies to address corruption, promote good governance, and attract foreign investments.Here are some of his key inputs.b) Transition to Democracy: Obasanjo played a crucial role in Nigeria's transition from military rule to democracy in 1999.After several years of military dictatorship, he emerged as the consensus candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and won the presidential election, becoming the first democratically elected President in Nigeria's Fourth Republic.c) Constitutional Reforms: During his tenure, Obasanjo initiated constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria's democratic institutions.This included the establishment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to oversee transparent and credible elections, as well as the creation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to combat corruption.d His religious beliefs, rooted in the principles of Christianity, reinforced his commitment to social justice, equality, and the well-being of all Nigerians.Azikiwe's vision of a united Nigeria was influenced by his Christian values of love, fairness, and the belief in the dignity and equality of all individuals.b) Journalism and Public Enlightenment: Azikiwe was a renowned journalist and used the power of the press to educate and mobilize Nigerians towards political awareness and national development.Through his newspaper, The West African Pilot, Azikiwe disseminated ideas of self-governance, civil rights, and independence.His writings emphasized the need for ethical leadership, good governance, and the fight against colonial oppression, which contributed to the political awakening of Nigerians.c) Founding Political Organizations: Azikiwe played a pivotal role in establishing several political organizations that played a significant role in Nigeria's political landscape.He founded the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) in 1944, which became one of the leading political parties advocating for Nigeria's independence.The NCNC promoted the rights of Nigerians and worked towards the development of a democratic system that would serve the interests of all citizens.d) Leadership and Statesmanship: Azikiwe's leadership and statesmanship qualities were deeply influenced by his religious beliefs.He believed in the principles of servant leadership and the responsibility of leaders to work for the common good.As Nigeria's first President, Azikiwe promoted unity, democracy, and social welfare.He implemented policies to foster education, economic development, and infrastructure, laying the foundation for Nigeria's progress as an independent nation.e) Interfaith and National Unity: While Azikiwe was a Christian, he recognized the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation for national unity.He encouraged religious tolerance and inclusivity, fostering an environment where Nigerians of different faiths could coexist harmoniously.Azikiwe's efforts to bridge religious and ethnic divides contributed to the stability and progress of Nigeria.