The Independence Movement in Nigeria refers to the political, social, and economic efforts made by Nigerians to gain self-rule and end British colonial domination. This movement gained momentum after World War II and led to Nigeria becoming an independent nation on 1st October 1960.

• Nigeria was under British colonial rule from the late 19th century until 1960.


• British policies often favored economic exploitation and political control with little regard for Nigerian welfare.


• Educated Nigerians, returning ex-servicemen, and traditional leaders began to demand political representation, equality, and self-governance.


• The experiences of World War I and II exposed Nigerians to ideas of freedom, democracy, and nationalism.

• Nationalism is the love for one’s country and the desire for self-rule, political independence, and sovereignty.
• In Nigeria, nationalism refers to the efforts of Nigerians to unite, protect their interests, and end British colonial rule.

1. Economic Exploitation
   
   
   • Nigeria’s resources (palm oil, cocoa, groundnuts, and minerals) were used to benefit Britain.
   
   
   • Nigerians wanted control over their own resources.
   
   
2. Political Exclusion
   
   
   • Nigerians had limited say in governance and were mostly excluded from decision-making.
   
   
   • Only a few elite Nigerians were allowed to participate in local councils.
   
   
3. Influence of Education
   
   
   • Western education produced a new elite of professionals who understood political ideas like democracy and self-rule.
   
   
4. Impact of World Wars
   
   
   • Many Nigerians fought in the World Wars and returned with nationalist ideas and determination for self-rule.
   
   
5. Influence of Nationalism Worldwide
   
   
   • Decolonization movements in Asia and Africa inspired Nigerians to demand independence.
   
   
6. Labour Movements and Social Activism
   
   
   • Trade unions and workers’ strikes exposed social inequalities and helped raise nationalist sentiment.
   
   

1. Regional: Early nationalism often focused on ethnic or regional interests, e.g., the North, South, or Lagos.


2. Political: Formation of political parties to represent local and national interests, e.g., NCNC, AG, NPC.


3. Peaceful and Negotiated: Many nationalist efforts relied on constitutional demands, petitions, and dialogue rather than violence.


4. Mass Mobilization: Newspapers, rallies, and public meetings helped educate and unite Nigerians around the idea of independence.


5. Educated Leadership: The movement was largely driven by Western-educated elites who used ideas of democracy, justice, and self-rule.

The struggle for independence in Nigeria was the effort by Nigerians to end British colonial rule and establish self-government. This struggle took place mainly in the 20th century, gaining momentum after World War II and culminating in Nigeria’s independence on 1st October 1960.

1. Formation of Political Parties

Political parties were formed to represent regional and national interests.

Key parties included:

• NNDP (Nigerian National Democratic Party) – Founded by Herbert Macaulay.


• NCNC (National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons) – Led by Nnamdi Azikiwe.


• AG (Action Group) – Led by Obafemi Awolowo.


• NPC (Northern People’s Congress) – Led by Ahmadu Bello.

2. Mass Mobilization

• Public rallies, petitions, and strikes were used to demand political rights.


• Newspapers, speeches, and social gatherings helped spread nationalist ideas.

3. Negotiation and Constitutional Reforms

• Nigerian leaders negotiated with Britain for reforms and increased autonomy.


• Important constitutions included the Macpherson Constitution (1951) and Lyttleton Constitution (1954).

3. Use of Legislative Councils

• Nigerians participated in regional and central councils to influence colonial policies.

1. Nnamdi Azikiwe (Zik)
   
   
   • Leader of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC).
   
   
   • Advocated for national unity and self-rule.
   
   
   • Used journalism, speeches, and political campaigns to mobilize Nigerians.
   
   
   • Became the first President of Nigeria after independence.
   
   
2. Herbert Macaulay
   
   
   • Pioneer Nigerian nationalist and founder of the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP).
   
   
   • Used newspapers, petitions, and protests to fight for Nigerians’ political rights.
   
   
   • Considered the father of Nigerian nationalism.
   
   
3. Anthony Enahoro
   
   
   • Young nationalist and politician.
   
   
   • Famous for demanding self-government “NOW, not later” in 1953.
   
   
   • Active in legislative councils and political mobilization.
   
   
4. Obafemi Awolowo
   
   
   • Leader of the Action Group (AG) and Premier of Western Nigeria.
   
   
   • Advocated Western education, federalism, and regional development.
   
   
   • Used political organization to advance nationalist goals.
   
   
5. Ahmadu Bello
   
   
   • Leader of the Northern People’s Congress (NPC) and Premier of Northern Nigeria.
   
   
   • Represented Northern interests in national politics.
   
   
   • Worked to promote education and political awareness in the North while cooperating with national leaders.
   
   
6. Aminu Kano
   
   
   • Northern politician, reformer, and social activist.
   
   
   • Advocated for social justice, equality, and rights of ordinary citizens.
   
   
   • Supported progressive policies and contributed to nationalist awareness in Northern Nigeria.
   
   
7. Other Contributors
   
   
   • Many traditional rulers, trade unionists, and grassroots activists also contributed.
   
   
   • Examples include:
     
     
     • Michael Imoudu – Labour union leader who fought for workers’ rights.
     
     
     • Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti – Women’s rights activist who mobilized Nigerians politically.
     
     

1. Gradual self-government was achieved in the 1950s through regional autonomy.


2. National consciousness and political awareness were strengthened among Nigerians.


3. Nigeria gained full independence on 1st October 1960.


4. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa became the first Prime Minister, and Nnamdi Azikiwe became the first Governor-General and later President.

• After years of political struggle, negotiations, and constitutional conferences, Nigeria was granted full independence from Britain on 1st October 1960.


• Abubakar Tafawa Balewa became the first Prime Minister, and Nnamdi Azikiwe became the first Governor-General, later the President.


• Independence marked the end of colonial rule and the beginning of self-determination for Nigerians.

1. Political Sovereignty – Nigeria had the right to govern itself without British control.


2. National Unity – Independence fostered a sense of Nigerian identity.


3. Economic Control – Nigerians gained authority over their resources and economic policies.


4. Foundation for Democracy – Set the stage for a democratic system of government.

The Independence Movement in Nigeria was driven by economic, political, and social factors. It involved political negotiations, party formation, mass mobilization, and advocacy by key leaders. The movement united Nigerians in their quest for self-rule and culminated in the end of British colonial rule in 1960.