10 Amazing Facts You Don’t Know About Obafemi Awolowo

Obafemi Awolowo is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest statesmen, a visionary leader whose policies and initiatives shaped the foundation of modern Nigeria. While many know him as the first Premier of the Western Region and a key nationalist, there are several lesser-known yet fascinating facts about his life and legacy. Here are ten amazing facts about Chief Obafemi Awolowo that you may not have known:

1. He Was the First Nigerian to Wear a Cap as a Symbol of Intellectualism

Awolowo’s signature cap, known as the ‘Awo Cap,’ became a powerful symbol of wisdom, resilience, and leadership. It was inspired by his desire to create an identity that reflected knowledge and progressiveness.

2. He Founded Nigeria’s First Television Station

In 1959, Awolowo’s government established the Western Nigeria Television (WNTV), making it the first television station in Africa. This put Nigeria ahead of several European countries in television broadcasting.

3. He Introduced Free Primary Education in Nigeria

As Premier of the Western Region, Awolowo launched the first-ever free primary education program in Nigeria in 1955. His policy significantly improved literacy rates and became a model for other regions.

4. Obafemi Awolowo Advocated for Federalism Before Independence

Awolowo was one of the earliest Nigerian leaders to advocate for a federal system of government. He believed that Nigeria’s ethnic and cultural diversity could only be managed through federalism, a principle that remains fundamental in Nigeria today.

5. He Was a Self-Made Man

Born into a modest family, Awolowo financed his education through various means, including working as a teacher, stenographer, and journalist. He later traveled to the UK, where he earned a law degree from the University of London.

6. Obafemi Awolowo Was an Advocate for Women’s Rights

Awolowo championed policies that empowered women, including giving them the right to vote in the Western Region before it became a national policy. His progressive stance on gender equality was ahead of his time.

7. He Revolutionized Agriculture in Western Nigeria

Under his leadership, the Western Region became an economic powerhouse, largely due to agricultural development. He introduced farm settlements, cooperative societies, and industrial expansion that boosted Nigeria’s economy.

8. He Was the First Nigerian Leader to Introduce a National Health Insurance Plan

Although the plan wasn’t fully implemented due to political opposition, Awolowo’s vision for a health insurance scheme was groundbreaking and influenced later policies on healthcare.

9. He Was Jailed for Treason but Later Became a Hero

In 1963, Awolowo was convicted of treason and sentenced to 10 years in prison. However, he was later granted a pardon and became Vice Chairman of the Federal Executive Council under General Yakubu Gowon’s regime, playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s post-war reconstruction.

10. His Image is on the N100 Bill

As a testament to his enduring legacy, Awolowo’s face is featured on the Nigerian N100 note. This honor reflects his immense contributions to Nigeria’s development and democracy.

Obafemi Awolowo was not just a politician; he was a visionary, a reformer, and a leader who left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history. His contributions to education, governance, and economic policies remain relevant today. Knowing these amazing facts about him gives us a deeper appreciation of his enduring legacy.