SALEM UNIVERSITY LOKOJA
NIGERIAN PEOPLE AND CULTURE
(GES 205)
DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTING
NAMES MATRICULATION NUMBER
JIBRIN JIBRIN JIBO SU22101006
SALAMI NASIRAT BOLAJI SU22101003
EMMANUEL JORAM CHRLES SU22101002
MAKUT FAVOUR SU22101004
JEMILA MIHAMMED JUMAI SU22101005
QUESTION
DISCUSS THE NATIONALIST MOVEMENT IN NIGERIA AND HOW IT LEAD TO INDEPENDENCE
DATE
30TH JANUARY, 2024
THE NATIONALIST MOVEMENT IN NIGERIA AND HOW IT LEAD TO
INDEPENDENCE
The nationalist movement in Nigeria played a crucial role in shaping the country's path to
independence. It was a period of fervent activism, unity, and determination among Nigerians to
break free from colonial rule and establish their own self-governance.
The term “nationalist movement” can be defined as deliberate effort or actions taken by
individuals of a particular state to gain independence or freedom from both internal and external
control to establish a sovereign nation.
During the early 20th century, Nigeria was under British colonial rule, and the nationalist
movement emerged as a response to the oppressive policies and exploitation faced by the
Nigerian people. Nigerian leaders and intellectuals began advocating for political, social, and
economic reforms, aiming to secure the rights and freedom of their fellow countrymen.
One of the key figures in the nationalist movement was Herbert Macaulay, often referred to as
the "father of Nigerian nationalism." He founded the Nigerian National Democratic Party
(NNDP) in 1923, which became a platform for Nigerians to voice their demands for self-
governance. Macaulay's efforts focused on promoting Nigerian culture, education, and political
awareness among the people.
As the nationalist movement gained momentum, more leaders emerged, including Nnamdi
Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello. These leaders played pivotal roles in
mobilizing the masses, organizing protests, and advocating for Nigerian interests.
The nationalist movement in Nigeria was characterized by various strategies and actions. One of
the most significant was the formation of political parties that aimed to challenge British colonial
rule. The National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), led by Azikiwe, and the
Action Group (AG), led by Awolowo, were among the prominent parties that fought for Nigerian
independence.
These parties utilized newspapers, public speeches, and grassroots campaigns to raise awareness
and garner support for their cause. They emphasized the importance of Nigerian unity and the
need for self-governance based on democratic principles.
The nationalist movement also witnessed significant milestones, such as the Lagos Women's
Union led by Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, which advocated for women's rights and played a
crucial role in challenging oppressive colonial policies
Finally, on October 1, 1960, Nigeria achieved independence, marking the culmination of decades
of struggle and sacrifice. The attainment of independence ushered in a new era of hope and
optimism, as Nigerians embarked on the task of nation-building and forging a common identity
out of the diverse tapestry of ethnicities, languages, and cultures that characterized the country.
In conclusion, the nationalist movement in Nigeria was a transformative journey marked by
resilience, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom. It was a multifaceted struggle that encompassed
political agitation, grassroots mobilization, and the articulation of a shared vision for a free and
prosperous Nigeria. While independence represented a significant milestone, it also marked the
beginning of a new chapter in Nigeria's history, one characterized by the challenges of nation-
building, democratization, and the quest for social justice and equality.