Who is on Nigeria Currency

Have you ever wondered who the faces on Nigeria currency are? Do you know the history behind these individuals? Nigeria is a country rich in culture and history, and the individuals that are featured on its currency are a testament to that. In this article, we will explore the people behind the faces on Nigeria currency, their significance, and their impact on Nigerian history.

The Naira and Kobo

Before we delve into the individuals behind Nigeria currency, it is important to understand the currency itself. Nigeria has two types of currency: the naira and the kobo. The naira is the official currency of Nigeria, while the kobo is its small denomination currency. One hundred kobo make up one naira. The naira and kobo have undergone several changes over the years with redesigns, new denominations, and updated security features.

Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa

Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa is one of the individuals on Nigeria currency. He is featured on the 5 naira note. Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa was Nigeria's first prime minister and played a significant role in Nigeria's independence from British rule in 1960. He was also a teacher, journalist, and politician.

Alhaji Aliyu Mai-Bornu

Another individual on Nigeria currency is Alhaji Aliyu Mai-Bornu. He is featured on the 10 naira note. Mai-Bornu was a businessman and politician who served as the Minister of Defense during General Yakubu Gowon's regime. He was also instrumental in establishing the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

Alvan Ikoku

Alvan Ikoku is on the 10 naira note, alongside Alhaji Aliyu Mai-Bornu. Ikoku was a Nigerian educator and activist who fought for the rights of the Igbo people. He established the first indigenous private school in Eastern Nigeria and was a founding member of the National Council of Nigeria and Cameroon (NCNC) political party.

Chief Obafemi Awolowo

Chief Obafemi Awolowo is featured on the 100 naira note. Awolowo was a prominent Nigerian politician, lawyer, and statesman. He was one of the founding fathers of the Nigerian state and played a vital role in Nigeria's transition to independence. He was also a prolific writer and authored several books on governance and economics.

Nnamdi Azikiwe

Nnamdi Azikiwe is another prominent Nigerian figure on Nigeria currency. He is featured on the 500 naira note. Azikiwe was Nigeria's first president and the country's first indigenous governor general. He was also a writer and publisher, who founded several newspapers and magazines that championed the cause of Nigerian independence.

Alhaji Ahmadu Bello

Alhaji Ahmadu Bello is on the 200 naira note. He was a Nigerian statesman who served as the first premier of the Northern Region of Nigeria. Bello played a significant role in shaping Nigeria's political landscape and was a strong advocate for the rights of the Northern people.

Mary Slessor

Mary Slessor is one of the few non-Nigerians on Nigeria currency. She is featured on the 10-pound note. Slessor was a Scottish missionary who lived and worked in Nigeria for over thirty years. She is renowned for her humanitarian work and for her efforts in promoting women's rights in Nigeria.

Dr. Clement Isong

Dr. Clement Isong is on the 1 naira coin. He was a Nigerian economist who served as the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. He was also the first person to hold the position of governor of a Nigerian state without being a member of the ruling party.

Queen Elizabeth II

Queen Elizabeth II is also featured on Nigeria currency. She is on the 20 naira note. The Queen is the head of state of Nigeria and many other Commonwealth countries. She has been featured on Nigerian currency since 1959.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the individuals on Nigeria currency are a diverse and influential group of people who have left a lasting impact on Nigerian history. From politicians to activists to missionaries, each person represents a different aspect of Nigeria's rich culture and heritage. By featuring these individuals on its currency, Nigeria honors their contributions and ensures that their legacy lives on for generations to come.