“Study history, study history. In history lies all the secrets of statecraft.” – Winston Churchill
Today In History
1. Nigerian Defence Academy Was Established
On this day in 1964, the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) was established. Before independence, the institution was known as the Royal Military Forces Training College (RMFTC), it will then become the Nigerian Military Training College after independence in 1960. The academy was established to train officers for the armed forces of Nigeria.
2. Togo’s Military Ruler Gnassingbé Eyadéma Died
On this day in 2005, Togo’s military ruler, Gnassingbé Eyadéma died. He had ruled Togo for 38 years. He was also regarded as the longest African dictator at the time of his death. He was also immediately replaced with his son, Faure Gnassingbé.
3. Phase 1 Of Morocco’s Solar Array Began
On this day in 2015, the first phase of Morocco’s solar array began generating electricity. It was the world’s largest solar array and expected to deliver 370 GWh to Morocco’s power grid each year.
4. Gabon Hosted African Cup Of Nations
On this day in 2017, Gabon hosted the 31st edition African Cup Of Nations (AFCON). Gabon hosted the tournament after Libya, the initial host nation became unstable from their civil war. Cameroon would eventually claim their first AFCON title.
5. Salisbury Airport, Zimbabwe Was Officially Opened
On this day in 1957, Salisbury Airport now Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport was officially opened in the then Southern Rhodesia now Zimbabwe. It was built by the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland now Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi.
6. French President, Charles Gaulle Called For Algeria’s Independence
On this in 1962, following French President, Charles Gaulle’s declaration that Algerians had the right to determine their own future in 1959, an Independence agreement was finally
signed in 1962.
