History of Nigeria: Formation in 1914

Formation of Nigeria

• Nigeria was officially formed in 1914 through the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates by Lord Frederick Lugard.
• Prior to this, the regions were under British colonial rule, directly governed from England.

Naming of Nigeria

• The name "Nigeria" was coined by Flora Shaw, later known as Flora Lugard, in 1897, derived from "Niger" (the river) and "area."

Governance Timeline

• Lord Frederick Lugard served as the Governor-General from January 1, 1914, to August 8, 1919.
• Following Lugard, Sir Hugh Clifford took over as Governor-General from August 8, 1919, to November 13, 1925, under King George V's reign.

Successive Governors

• Sir Graeme Thomson governed from November 13, 1925, to June 17, 1931.
• Sir Donald Cameron succeeded Thomson, ruling from June 17, 1931, to November 1, 1935.
• Sir Bernard Bourdillon held office from November 1, 1935, to July 1, 1940.
• Sir John Evelyn Shuckburgh served from July 1, 1940, until 1942.
• Sir Alan Burns was in power from 1942 to December 18, 1943.
• Sir Arthur Richard governed from December 18, 1943, to February 5, 1948.
• Sir John MacPherson took office from February 5, 1946, to June 15, 1955.
• Sir James Wilson Robertson served as Governor-General from June 15, 1956, to October 1, 1960.

Key Figures

• Lord Frederick Lugard: First Governor-General and key figure in the amalgamation of Nigeria.
• Flora Shaw: Coined the term "Nigeria," playing a significant role in the naming process.
• The timeline of governors reflects Nigeria's colonial governance leading towards independence.