“Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”- Confucius
Today In History
1. Retaliatory Benin Expedition
On this day in 1897, the retaliatory Benin expedition which resulted in the total capture of the Benin kingdom took place.
The British army of over 1,000 Soldiers led by Admiral Sir Harry Rawson launched the Benin Mission as a retaliatory expedition after a prior invasion by Acting Consul General James Philips that was foiled.
The expedition, which lasted for 5 weeks left the Benin kingdom in ruin, as it was conquered, set on fire, looted. The Benin Bronzes and other works of art were among the looted and/or moved to Britain as a result.
2. Kaduna’s Lugard Footbridge Was Declared A National Historic Monument
On this day in 1956, the Lugard Footbridge, which was built by Sir Frederick Lugard in 1904 at Zungeru, the capital of the Northern Protectorate of Nigeria was declared a national historic monument. The footbridge is presently located in the General Hassan Katsina Park, Kaduna.
3. Sudan Won The African Cup Of Nations
On this day in 1970, the seven edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) ended with the host nation, Sudan winning the title.
4. First Match Of African Women’s Championship Was Played
On this day in 1991, the first match of the maiden African Women’s Championship later renamed Women’s African Cup of Nations was played. Nigeria’s female team went on to the win the title.
5. March Of Hope In Zaire
On this day in 1992, no fewer than one million protesters marched through the streets of Kinshasa to protest against President Mobutu Sese Seko’s rule.
In response, the president’s security forces killed at least 30 protesters and injured several hundreds.
6. National Museum Of Egyptian Civilization Opened In Cairo
On this day in 2017, the National Museum Of Egyptian Civilization, a large museum (490,000 square metres (5,300,000 sq ft) )was opened in Cairo. The Museum was partially opened in 2017, and officially opened on April 3rd, 2021.
7. Quetta Bombing In Pakistan
On this day in 2013, a bomb hidden in a water tank exploded at a market in Hazara Town on the outskirts of Quetta, the capital city of Balochistan, Pakistan. No fewer than 91 people were killed, while 190 others were injured.
