List of Nigerians facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Nigeria is a country in West Africa with a rich history and many amazing people. This article introduces you to some notable Nigerians who have made a big difference. They come from different areas like politics, sports, arts, and science. Learning about them helps us understand Nigeria's journey and its impact on the world.

Leaders Who Shaped Nigeria

Nigeria has been led by many important people. These leaders helped guide the country through different times. They worked to build a better future for everyone.

Presidents and Prime Ministers

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa was Nigeria's first Prime Minister. He played a key role when Nigeria became independent. He worked hard for unity in the new nation.
Nnamdi Azikiwe was Nigeria's first President. He was a strong voice for independence from British rule. Many people called him "Zik."
Olusegun Obasanjo served as Nigeria's military head of state and later as a civilian President. He is known for his efforts to bring democracy back to Nigeria.
Goodluck Jonathan was President of Nigeria. He is remembered for his commitment to free and fair elections. He also worked on improving the economy.
Muhammadu Buhari also served as a military head of state and later as a civilian President. He focused on fighting corruption and improving security.
Bola Tinubu is the current President of Nigeria. He has a long history in politics, including serving as a governor.

Other Important Politicians

Obafemi Awolowo was a very important leader during Nigeria's independence movement. He worked to improve education and welfare.
Ahmadu Bello was a key figure in northern Nigeria's politics. He helped shape the region's development before and after independence.
Margaret Ekpo was a brave woman who fought for women's rights and political freedom. She was a pioneer in Nigerian politics.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a world-famous economist. She served as Nigeria's Minister of Finance. She is now the Director-General of the World Trade Organization.

People Who Fought for Rights

Many Nigerians have worked hard to protect human rights and bring about fairness. They spoke up for what was right, even when it was difficult.

Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti was a fearless activist and a pioneer for women's rights in Nigeria. She fought for women to have the right to vote and for better conditions.
Gani Fawehinmi was a famous lawyer and human rights activist. He was known for fighting for justice for ordinary Nigerians.
Ken Saro-Wiwa was an environmental activist and writer. He spoke out against pollution in the Niger Delta region.
Wole Soyinka is a Nobel Prize winner in Literature. He is also a strong human rights advocate. He often uses his writing to speak against injustice.

Brave Military Leaders

Nigeria's military has had many important figures. These individuals played key roles in the country's history, especially during times of change.

Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi was Nigeria's first military head of state. He led the country briefly after the first military coup.
Yakubu Gowon was a military head of state who led Nigeria during its civil war. He worked to keep the country united.
Murtala Mohammed was a military head of state known for his strong leadership. He aimed to bring discipline and reform to the country.
Sani Abacha was a military head of state. He was a powerful figure in Nigerian politics.

Talented Musicians

Nigeria is famous for its vibrant music scene. Many musicians have shared Nigerian culture with the world through their songs.

Fela Kuti was a legendary musician and activist. He created Afrobeat music, mixing traditional Nigerian sounds with jazz and funk. His songs often spoke about social issues.
For more amazing Nigerian musicians, check out the List of Nigerian musicians.

Amazing Actors

Nigerian actors are known worldwide, especially through Nollywood, Nigeria's film industry. They tell captivating stories that entertain millions.

To discover more talented Nigerian actors, see the List of Nigerian actors.

Creative Artists

Nigerian artists are celebrated for their unique styles and powerful messages. They use various forms of art to express themselves and reflect society.

You can find more about Nigerian artists in the List of Nigerian artists.

Media Personalities

These individuals work in news, television, and radio. They help inform and entertain the public.

Femi Oke is a well-known journalist and television presenter. She has worked for major international news channels.
Dele Momodu is a famous publisher and journalist. He founded Ovation International magazine, which covers African celebrities and events.
Babatunde Jose is often called the "grandfather of Nigerian journalism." He played a huge role in developing newspapers in Nigeria.

Smart Educators

Educators help shape the minds of future generations. Nigeria has many brilliant professors and teachers.

Claude Ake was a highly respected professor of political economy. He wrote many books about development in Africa.
Cletus Nzebunwa Aguwa is a professor of clinical pharmacy. He has contributed a lot to medical education.

Skilled Lawyers

Lawyers play a vital role in upholding justice and the rule of law.

Kayode Ajulo is a notable lawyer who has worked on many important legal cases.

Wonderful Writers

Nigerian writers are globally recognized for their powerful stories and poems. They often explore themes of identity, history, and society.

Chinua Achebe is one of the most famous Nigerian writers. His novel Things Fall Apart is read all over the world.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a celebrated author whose books have won many awards. She writes about modern Nigerian life and feminism.
For more Nigerian writers, visit the List of Nigerian writers.

Successful Business People

These individuals have built successful businesses and created jobs. They contribute a lot to Nigeria's economy.

Aliko Dangote is one of the richest people in Africa. He built a huge business empire in cement, sugar, and other industries.
Femi Otedola is a well-known businessman in the energy sector. He has invested in many different companies.
Mary Nzimiro was a pioneering businesswoman and politician. She was one of the richest women in West Africa in her time.

Religious Leaders

Religious leaders guide their communities and promote spiritual values.

Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi was a Catholic monk. He was honored by Pope John Paul II for his holy life.
Enoch Adeboye is a very popular pastor and the general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Bishop David Oyedepo is a well-known preacher and the founder of Winners' Chapel. He also founded Covenant University.
Sheikh Dahiru Usman is a respected Islamic scholar.

Talented Sports People

Nigerians excel in many sports, bringing pride to the nation through their achievements.

To see more Nigerian sports stars, check out the List of Nigerian sportspeople.

International Models

Nigerian models have graced runways and magazines around the world.

Agbani Darego made history by becoming the first native African to win the Miss World beauty pageant in 2001.
Oluchi Onweagba is a supermodel who won the M-Net Face of Africa competition. She has worked with top fashion brands globally.

ICT and Information Professionals

These individuals are at the forefront of technology and information.

Philip Emeagwali is a computer scientist who won the Gordon Bell Prize for his work on supercomputers.
Ekei Essien Oku was the first Nigerian woman to become a chief librarian. She helped organize and manage important collections of books.

Innovators in Medicine and Science

Nigerian scientists and doctors have made important discoveries and saved lives.

Bennet Omalu is a forensic pathologist. He discovered a brain disease called CTE in American football players.
Ameyo Adadevoh was a brave doctor who helped stop the spread of the Ebola virus in Nigeria. She is remembered as a hero.
Chike Obi was a brilliant mathematician. He solved a complex mathematical problem that had puzzled experts for years.

Skilled Aviators

These are the brave pilots and aviation professionals who fly planes and manage air travel.

Chinyere Kalu is Nigeria's first female commercial pilot. She has inspired many young girls to pursue careers in aviation.