Zikism

Zikism is the system of political thought attributed to Nnamdi Azikiwe, one of the founding fathers of modern Nigeria and the first democratically elected President of Nigeria. Azikiwe expanded on this philosophy through his published works such as Renascent Africa (1973) and his autobiography My Odyssey.

Overview

Zikism is characterised by five principles for African liberation:

• Spiritual balance

To show empathy for other peoples views, and recognize their right to hold such views.

• Social regeneration

To expel from one's self national, religious, racial, tribal, political-economic, and ethical prejudice.

• Economic determinism

To realize that being self-sufficient economically is the basis for rescuing the Renascent African.

• Mental emancipation

To be knowledgeable of African history and accomplishments, and to dismiss any kind of complex exhibited by any race or tribe.

• Political resurgence

To regain the sovereignty that Africa has lost to colonialists.

Quotes on Zikism

• Ibrahim Babangida, former President of Nigeria, said:

In the case of the great Zik, it became fashionable among his adherents and supporters to be a Zikist. But interestingly, Zikism was not synonymous with an ethnic ideology nor did it a divisive cause. Instead, Zikism was more an ideology for African reniascence emphasizing the restoration of the dignity of the black man after centuries of colonial imposition and exploitation.