Akanu Ibiam

Sir Akanu Ibiam KCMG KBE (29 November 1906 - 1 July 1995), was a distinguished medical missionary who was appointed Governor of Eastern Region, Nigeria from December 1960 until January 1966 during the Nigerian First Republic.

After this time, he dropped his title and his forename and was known as simply Akanu Ibiam although the honours he reportedly returned were not annulled by the British government.

He attended Hope Waddell Training Institute, Calabar, and King's College, Lagos, and then was admitted to the University of St. Andrews, graduating with a medical degree in 1934.

[7] In the lead-up to Nigerian independence Ibiam served in local government, in the Eastern Regional House of Assembly, and in the Legislative and Executive Councils.

[9] During the Nigerian Civil War of 1967–1970, Ibiam actively assisted the Biafrans, helping obtain relief supplies through his church contacts.

Chief Bola Ige, Adviser to the Church of the Province of West Africa was also present, and ensured that the name "Biafra" was avoided in the WCC resolution, since that would imply recognition of the state.

On 16 January 1966 a military coup brought Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi to power, terminating the first period of democratic rule.