Today In Black History: Dr. Davidson Nicol
Sierra Leonean Physician, Diabetes Researcher, and Author
Issue #886 Today In Black History, Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Davidson Sylvester Hector Willoughby Nicol, affectionately known as "Professor Nicol," was born on September 14, 1924, in Freetown, Sierra Leone. He earned a scholarship to attend Christ's College, Cambridge, where he studied natural sciences. This opportunity laid the foundation for his illustrious career in medicine and research.
He was a Sierra Leone Creole physician, diplomat, and writer. Nicol made significant contributions to diabetes research through his discoveries in the analysis of insulin breakdown in the human body. D. Nicol secured degrees in the arts, sciences, and commercial disciplines, and he made significant contributions to the fields of science, history, and literature.
Dr. Nicol's journey in medicine saw him become the first African to graduate with a First-Class Honors degree in Medicine from the University of Cambridge. He later became the first African to serve as a university professor in the United Kingdom, taking up a position at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria. His work extended beyond the classroom, as he played a pivotal role in the development of medical education across Africa.
As a researcher, Dr. Nicol's work focused on metabolic diseases and tropical medicine, areas crucial to the health of African populations. He passionately advocated for the adaptation of Western medical practices to better suit the African context, ensuring that solutions were not only effective but culturally relevant.
One of Dr. Nicol's most significant contributions to medical research was his study on sickle cell anemia, a genetic condition prevalent in many parts of Africa. His research provided invaluable insights that have informed treatment approaches.
In 1968, Dr. Nicol was appointed as the permanent representative of Sierra Leone to the United Nations (UN), a position he held until 1971. Following this, he served as Sierra Leone's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 1971 to 1972. His diplomatic career continued to flourish as he took on the role of Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1972 to 1982, serving under Austrian Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim. During his tenure, Dr. Nicol also led the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). Additionally, he represented Sierra Leone as ambassador to Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Notably, he served as President of the United Nations Security Council in September 1970, demonstrating his significant influence and leadership on the global stage.
Dr. Nicol was also an accomplished writer, with stories that celebrated African culture and challenged colonial perspectives. His literary works, including "Two African Tales" and "The Truly Married Woman," are cherished for their vivid storytelling and cultural authenticity.
Through his writing, Dr. Nicol sought to elevate African voices and promote a greater understanding of the continent's rich cultural heritage. His essays and stories often highlighted the complexities of identity, colonialism, and the African experience.
Additionally, Dr. Nicol held several key leadership positions, including serving as Sierra Leone's ambassador to the United Nations. In this role, he was a staunch advocate for African unity and development, working tirelessly to improve international relations and promote peace.
He received numerous accolades and awards throughout his career, including honorary degrees and recognition from prestigious institutions.
Dr. Davidson Nicol maintained a residence for many years on Thornton Road in Cambridge, England. During this time, he frequently visited Christ's College, where he held the esteemed position of Honorary Fellow. From 1987 to 1991, he served as a visiting professor of international studies at the University of California (1987–88) and the University of South Carolina (1990–91). Additionally, he was the president of the World Federation of United Nations Associations from 1983 to 1987.
Dr. Davidson Nicol retired in 1991 at the age of 67 and returned to Cambridge, where he passed away on September 20, 1994, at the age of 70.
Today In Black History
In 1868, Francis Louis Cardozo was installed as the first Black Secretary of State in South Carolina.
In 1858, Louisiana and South Carolina were the last states to ratify the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution.
In 1893, Dr. Daniel Hale Williams performed the first open-heart surgery without anesthesia on a white man at the Black-owned hospital he founded in 1891, Provident Hospital in Chicago, IL.
In 1927, Black attorney William T. Francis was named U.S. Minister to Liberia.
In 1955, E. Frederic Morrow became the first African American to hold an executive White House staff position when he was named an Administrative Assistant to President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
In 2002, the African Union was established in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with South African President Thabo Mbeki as its first chairman.
In 2011, South Sudan seceded and gained its independence from Sudan.
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