Anthony Enahoro- Heroes and Heroines In Nigeria

Anthony Enahoro was a prominent Nigerian nationalist, journalist, politician, and statesman. He holds a special place in the country’s history as the man who moved the first motion for Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule. His courage, intellect, and political foresight played a pivotal role in shaping modern Nigeria.

Anthony Eromosele Enahoro was born on July 22, 1923, in Uromi, present-day Edo State. He had his early education at Government College, Ibadan, one of the most prestigious schools in colonial Nigeria.

His passion for writing and public affairs began early. At the age of 21, he became one of Nigeria’s youngest newspaper editors, working with Zik’s West African Pilot and later editing other nationalist newspapers.

Enahoro was deeply involved in Nigeria’s nationalist movement. In 1953, as a member of the House of Representatives, he made history by moving the first motion for Nigeria's independence. Although the motion was initially opposed and postponed due to political tensions among regions, it ignited the momentum that eventually led to independence in 1960.

He was a member of the Action Group (AG), a political party led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and played major roles in parliamentary debates, constitutional conferences, and national development discussions.

Throughout his career, Enahoro held several high-ranking political positions, including:

• Minister of Information

• Federal Commissioner for Information and Labour

• Special Envoy and Diplomat

He also represented Nigeria at several international events and remained a strong advocate for national unity, democracy, and human rights.

During the Nigerian Civil War era, Enahoro was involved in peace efforts and constitutional negotiations. He later joined the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a pro-democracy group that opposed military dictatorship during the 1990s.

Despite his age, Enahoro continued to speak out on issues of national importance, advocating for true federalism, constitutional reform, and equity among regions in Nigeria.

Enahoro died on December 15, 2010, at the age of 87. He was celebrated nationwide as a patriot, intellectual, and freedom fighter. His legacy is cemented in Nigeria’s history books as one of the earliest voices to boldly demand self-governance.

Anthony Enahoro was more than a politician; he was a visionary nationalist, a courageous freedom advocate, and a builder of modern Nigeria. His name will forever be remembered as the man who lit the torch of independence and inspired a new era of national consciousness.