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My brilliant Afrilearn superstar! I hope you’re having a fantastic day! Have you ever wondered how Nigeria moved from being a British colony to an independent country? Well, after the Second World War (1939–1945), Nigerians became even more determined to gain freedom from British rule. They were tired of foreign control, unfair treatment, and economic exploitation. This led to the rise of the Nationalist Movement, a powerful struggle that eventually led to Nigeria’s independence in 1960.
Today, we’ll be looking at how the nationalist movement grew after World War II, the factors that influenced it, and the role of Nigerian leaders in the fight for independence.
Nationalists Movement After Second World War
What is Nationalism?
Nationalism is the desire of a people to govern themselves instead of being controlled by foreigners. In Nigeria, nationalism started as early resistance against British rule but became a full political movement after World War II.
Before the war, Nigeria’s nationalists were mainly educated elites and traditional rulers who used newspapers and petitions to demand better treatment from the British. However, after World War II, nationalism became stronger, and Nigerians began demanding full independence.
Factors That Strengthened the Nationalist Movement After World War II
Several events made nationalism stronger after 1945:
Effects of World War II (1939–1945)
Many Nigerians fought in the British army during the war. When they returned, they realised they were not treated as equals by the British, even after risking their lives. This made them question why they were still under British rule.
Formation of the United Nations (UN) in 1945
The UN encouraged self-determination, meaning countries should rule themselves. This gave Nigerian nationalists the confidence to demand independence.
British Economic Hardship
After the war, Britain was financially weak and could not afford to maintain its colonies. This made it easier for Nigeria to push for independence.
Rise of Political Parties
Before the war, nationalist activities were mostly limited to newspapers and protests. But after the war, leaders like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello formed political parties to demand independence.
Key Nationalist Leaders and Their Contributions
Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe (Zik of Africa)
Founded the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) in 1944.
Used his newspaper, West African Pilot, to promote nationalism.
Became Nigeria’s first President in 1963 after independence.
Chief Obafemi Awolowo
Founded the Action Group (AG) in 1951.
Fought for the independence of Western Nigeria and promoted education.
Sir Ahmadu Bello
Founded the Northern Peoples Congress (NPC) in 1949.
Worked to ensure the North was included in Nigeria’s independence movement.
Herbert Macaulay
One of the earliest nationalists, known as the father of Nigerian nationalism.
Helped form the NCNC and fought against British policies.
Achievements of the Nationalist Movement
Thanks to the efforts of Nigerian nationalists:
The 1946 Richards Constitution allowed more Nigerians to participate in governance.
The 1954 Lyttleton Constitution gave Nigeria regional self-rule.
On October 1, 1960, Nigeria gained independence from Britain.
Summary
After World War II, the nationalist movement in Nigeria became stronger due to factors like returning soldiers, economic hardship in Britain, and the influence of the United Nations. Political parties like NCNC, AG, and NPC were formed, and leaders like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello played key roles. Their efforts led to Nigeria’s independence on October 1, 1960.
Evaluation
- What is nationalism, and why did it become stronger after World War II?
- How did the United Nations encourage Nigerian nationalism?
- Mention two key nationalist leaders and their contributions.
- What role did political parties play in Nigeria’s fight for independence?
You are a true Afrilearn superstar! Keep believing in yourself and never stop learning. Nigeria’s history is rich, and you are part of its future! Keep shining, and see you in the next lesson!
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