President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, yesterday, called on Nigerians to emulate the leadership qualities, patriotism and democratic ideals of Nigeria’s foremost nationalist, Herbert Macaulay.

They gave the charge yesterday, in Lagos, during the 80th remembrance anniversary of Macaulay, widely regarded as the Father of Nigerian Nationalism.

Tinubu, who was represented by Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Folasade Ogunshola, described Macaulay as a visionary leader, an uncompromising patriot and fearless advocate of justice and self-determination whose contributions laid the foundation for Nigeria’s independence.

He said Macaulay’s name remained permanently etched in the nation’s history because of his unwavering commitment to the struggle against colonial rule.

Sanwo-Olu also said that the Macaulay family’s name remains a symbol of patriotism and national service.

He said that commemorating the 80th anniversary of Macaulay’s death was an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices of those who laid the foundation of modern Nigeria.

George, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has called on Nigerian leaders to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law and place national interest above personal ambition, saying that the country’s progress depends on preserving the ideals championed by the late nationalist, Herbert Samuel Heelas Macaulay.

He gave the charge in hismemorial lecture titled “An Exposé on the First Nigerian Nationalist – Papa Helas Herbert Macaulay,” in honour of the man widely regarded as the Father of Nigerian Nationalism.

George, who described Macaulay as a courageous nationalist whose lifelong struggle for justice, representation and accountability laid the foundation for Nigeria’s democratic evolution, said that he (Macaulay) earned the title of Father of Nigerian Nationalism through “courage in the face of intimidation, conviction in the face of opposition and sacrifice in the service of a cause greater than self.”

According to George, understanding Macaulay’s life is essential to understanding the making of a modern Nigeria, noting that the nationalist dedicated his life to challenging injustice and advocating meaningful participation of Nigerians in governance during the colonial era.

He, however, traced Macaulay’s upbringing to a family known for scholarship and public service, highlighting his relationship with his grandfather, Samuel Ajayi Crowther, whose legacy of education, faith and leadership influenced his worldview.

George noted that Macaulay’s education in Lagos and later in England equipped him with professional expertise in engineering and surveying before he joined the colonial civil service.

Besides, he said that Macaulay’s experience within government exposed him to systemic inequalities, including policies that undermined indigenous communities and denied Nigerians adequate representation in governance.

The elder statesman described Macaulay as the recognised voice of an awakening people, the defender of indigenous rights and the pioneer of organised democratic politics in Nigeria.

He, therefore, urged political leaders to strengthen democratic institutions, protect constitutional principles and ensure public offices remain instruments of service rather than privilege.

The PDP chieftain also expressed concern over the country’s security challenges, saying that violence, displacement and fear continued to undermine national development and economic growth.