Colonial Nigeria (1900-1960)

The period between 1900 and 1960 where Great Britain held power and influence in Nigeria.

A system of governance used by the British in Nigeria, where local chiefs and traditional rulers were given some authority, but ultimately under British control.

The resistance movement against British rule in Nigeria, often involving protests, uprisings, and non-violent campaigns.

The economic exploitation of Nigeria's resources by British colonial officials for their own benefit, often leading to a depletion of natural resources.

The process of establishing British control over Nigeria in early 1900s, uniting different ethnic groups under a single colonial power.

The period in Nigerian history between 1940 and 1960 marked by a growing movement towards independence. Multiple nationalist organizations emerged, advocating for self-governance. Key figures like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello played pivotal roles.

The pre-colonial societies of Nigeria were diverse, encompassing various ethnic groups with their own unique political, economic, and cultural systems. These included kingdoms, empires, city-states, and decentralized communities. The Hausa-Fulani established the Sokoto Caliphate, an Islamic empire governed by a centralized system. The Yoruba had powerful city-states like Oyo and Ife, with monarchies combining spiritual and political power. The Igbo organized themselves into autonomous, village-based communities, often led by councils of elders and age-grade systems.

The British colonial rule in Nigeria was significantly influenced by the trans-Atlantic slave trade, which disrupted local societies and led to the desire for new markets and resources. The British, seeking to abolish slavery, looked to expand their economic and political influence in Nigeria. This led to direct territorial control, with British interests driven by acquiring raw materials like palm oil and cotton.

The amalgamation of the Northern and Southern protectorates in 1914 marked a crucial moment in British colonial administration. The North, influenced by Islamic traditions, was governed through indirect rule under the Sokoto Caliphate. The South, with a more direct British influence, was economically prosperous due to trade in palm oil, cocoa, and other cash crops. This merger aimed to achieve cost efficiency and unify the administration of these diverse regions.

The British sought to utilize the economic resources of the Southern protectorate to support the less prosperous North. This financial balancing act aimed to create a more self-sustaining colony and reduce financial burdens on the British government. This was a primary motivation for the amalgamation of the protectorates.

Besides economic efficiency, the British aimed to centralize governance in Nigeria for better control and policy enforcement. Instead of managing two separate entities, a unified administrative structure was considered favorable for streamlined control. This political goal played a significant role in the amalgamation.

The amalgamation, while intended to unite Nigeria under a single administrative framework, also deepened pre-existing regional and ethnic divisions. The North and South remained culturally distinct, with different governance, education, and economic practices. This resulted in long-lasting tensions and challenges during the post-colonial period.

Lord Frederick Lugard, the Governor-General of Nigeria, introduced the policy of indirect rule, which allowed traditional rulers in the North and West to maintain their authority. These rulers served as intermediaries for the colonial government, implementing British policies and maintaining order. However, the system was less effective in the South, particularly among the Igbo, whose decentralized village governance clashed with British models.

The first Republic of Nigeria, established after independence, saw a period of political and economic instability. The country faced challenges related to ethnic and regional differences, and the dominance of particular political parties, leading to the eventual collapse of the republic in 1966.

The Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafran War, took place from 1967 to 1970. It was triggered by the secession of the southeastern region of Nigeria, which declared itself the Republic of Biafra. The war was marked by intense fighting and a humanitarian crisis. It ended with the defeat of Biafra and the reunification of Nigeria.

After the civil war, the military government of General Yakubu Gowon introduced the

The period of military rule in Nigeria, lasting from 1970 to 1999, saw varying degrees of stability and development. Generals Yakubu Gowon, Murtala Muhammed, and Olusegun Obasanjo took on leadership roles during this time. Military governments often implemented policies aimed at economic growth, such as the Oil Boom and the Structural Adjustment Program.

The 1980s saw political developments in Nigeria as military governments attempted to balance economic challenges and political reforms. Movements like 'The Reds' and 'Civil Socialism' emerged, advocating for social justice and economic redistribution. However, these efforts often faced limitations and challenges.

The fourth Republic of Nigeria, established in 1999, marked the return of democratic rule after years of military rule. The republic faces ongoing challenges such as corruption, electoral irregularities, terrorism, and economic dependence on oil. Despite these issues, Nigeria's political and economic landscape is constantly evolving, navigating complex domestic and global issues.

Nigeria's economic development has been significantly impacted by its dependence on oil revenue. While oil exports have brought wealth, it has also created economic vulnerabilities due to fluctuating global prices. Efforts towards economic diversification, including investments in agriculture and technology, are critical for Nigeria's long-term financial stability.