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HISTORY OF NIGERIA AS A NATION

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Nigeria, a country located in West Africa, has a rich and complex history shaped by diverse cultures, colonialism, and struggles for independence. Understanding this history is crucial to comprehending its present-day socio-political landscape. The Federal Republic of Nigeria is a republic in West Africa, bordering Niger in the north, Chad in the northeast, Cameroon in the southeast, and Benin in the west. Its coast in the south is located on the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean.

The federation comprises 36 states and 1 Federal Capital Teråritory, where the capital, Abuja is located. Nigeria is officially a democratic secular country. Nigeria became politically independent of British Monarch on 1st October 1960, and on October 8th, 1960 she made her first appearance on the international arena when she joined

Nigeria’s foreign policy is ―non-alignment in foreign relations‖, As a member of comity of nations, Nigeria is represented on many committees and commissions of the United Nations committee of Twenty-One Disarmament Committee, UNESCO, UNICEF, WHO and UNTAD. Nigeria also belongs to the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (JRBD) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as well as the International Development Association, (IDA) Perhaps, where Nigeria has made the greatest achievement since independence is in her activities in the Organization of African Unity (OAT now African Union (AU) as a founder member, mediator and a living spirit behind the organization. Nigeria is also a member of the British commonwealth of Nations. Nigeria has diplomatic relations with countries in Europe, Africa, America and Asia.

Nigeria has a lot of historic empires and cultures compared to other countries in Africa. The history of Nigeria can be traced back to as early as 11,000 BC when a number of ancient African communities inhabited the area that now makes Nigeria. The greatest and the well- known empire that ruled the region before the British arrived was the Benin Empire whose ruler was known as Oba of Benin. Other tribes such as the Nri Kingdom also settled in the country, especially in the Eastern side. The Songhai Empire also settled in some of the country’s territory. By the 11th century, Islam had arrived in Nigeria via the Hausa States. In 1851, the British forces seized Lagos, which was later annexed officially in 1861. In 1901, Nigeria was made a British protectorate and was colonized until 1960, when the country gained independence.

In 1963, Nigeria became a republic but fell under military rule in 1966 as a result of a coup d'état. In 1967, the Republic of Biafra was formed, and this led to the three-year Nigerian Civil War. The country became a republic again in 1979 after a new constitution was drafted. The republic, however, did not last for long because the military under the leadership of Major General Muhammadu Buhari seized the country four years later. A new republic was formed in August 1993 after Buhari was overthrown but was once again dissolved in November the same year by General Sani Abacha who passed on in 1998, leading to the creation of a forth republic in 1999.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite being a vibrant and resource-rich nation, Nigeria faces persistent challenges rooted in its historical experiences, which continue to impact its development trajectory.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to determine the historical trajectory of Nigeria as a nation. Specific objectives include:

i. To evaluate the impact of colonialism on Nigeria's socio-economic and political structures.

ii. To determine the key events and figures that shaped Nigeria's struggle for independence.

iii. To find out how Nigeria's diverse ethnic groups have influenced its cultural identity and national unity.

1.4 Research Questions

i. What is the impact of colonialism on Nigeria's socio-economic and political structures?

ii. What key events and figures shaped Nigeria's struggle for independence?

iii. How does Nigeria's cultural diversity influence its national identity and unity?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study aims to provide insights into Nigeria's historical journey, offering a foundation for policymakers, historians, and the general public to understand the country's past and its implications for the present and future.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study will focus primarily on the period from pre-colonial times to post-independence (1960), with emphasis on major historical events, socio-economic changes, and political developments that have shaped Nigeria as a nation.

1.7 Limitations of the Study

Limitations include potential constraints in accessing primary historical documents, varying interpretations of historical events, and the vastness of Nigeria's history which may necessitate focusing on key periods and themes.

1.8 Definition of Terms

Colonialism: The policy or practice of acquiring political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.

Independence: The state of being free from the control, influence, or support of others; self-governing.

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