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Hello, my smart and curious learner! How are you today? I hope you’re ready for another exciting lesson. Today, we will learn about how Nigeria became free from British rule and gained independence. Have you ever wondered why we celebrate 1st October as Nigeria’s Independence Day? Well, by the end of this lesson, you will understand why this day is so special. Let’s get started!
Nigeria’s Decolonisation and Independence
Imagine living in a house where someone else makes all the rules, controls everything you do, and never allows you to make decisions for yourself. That would not feel fair, right? Well, that was what happened to Nigeria for many years.
A long time ago, Nigeria was under British colonial rule, which means the British controlled our land, government, and resources. Nigerians had little or no say in how they were governed. But our great leaders fought for freedom, and on 1st October 1960, Nigeria finally gained independence!
What is Colonisation?
Colonisation happens when a powerful country takes control of another country, rules over its people, and uses its resources. The British colonised Nigeria in 1900 and controlled our land, government, and trade.
What is Decolonisation?
Decolonisation means a country gaining freedom from colonial rule and being able to govern itself. For many years, Nigerians fought for this freedom by speaking out, forming political parties, and demanding independence.
The Journey to Independence
Nigeria did not gain independence in one day—it was a long process! Here are some important events that led to our freedom:
1914 – The Amalgamation of Nigeria
The British joined the Northern and Southern Protectorates together to form one country—Nigeria. This made ruling easier for them, but Nigerians were still under British control.
1922 – First Steps to Democracy
The British introduced a new system that allowed some Nigerians to vote and take part in the government. However, only a few educated people were allowed to vote.
1940s – The Rise of Nigerian Leaders
Brave Nigerian leaders like Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello, and Sir Herbert Macaulay started forming political parties and demanding freedom.
1954 – Nigeria Becomes a Federation
Nigeria was divided into three regions: Northern, Western, and Eastern Regions, and each had its own government. But the British were still in charge.
1st October 1960 – Nigeria Gains Independence!
After years of struggle, the British finally agreed to let Nigeria govern itself. On 1st October 1960, Nigeria became an independent country, and the Nigerian flag was raised for the first time. Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa became Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, while Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe became the first Governor-General.
1st October 1963 – Nigeria Becomes a Republic
Even though Nigeria was independent in 1960, the British Queen was still considered the head of state. But on 1st October 1963, Nigeria became a republic, meaning we had full control of our country with no foreign ruler. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe became Nigeria’s first President.
Think of a school where older students control everything—what you eat, what you wear, and where you sit. One day, the teachers decide that the students should be free to make their own choices and pick their own prefects. That is like Nigeria’s independence—we moved from being controlled by foreigners to having our own leaders.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s decolonisation and independence was a long journey. For many years, the British controlled Nigeria, but brave leaders fought for freedom. On 1st October 1960, Nigeria gained independence, and by 1st October 1963, we became a republic. Today, we celebrate Independence Day every year to remember this great moment in our history!
Evaluation
- What does colonisation mean?
- Who were some of the leaders that fought for Nigeria’s independence?
- When did Nigeria gain independence?
- Who was Nigeria’s first Prime Minister?
- When did Nigeria become a republic?
Wow! You have done an amazing job learning about Nigeria’s independence. Always remember that freedom is precious, and great leaders worked hard to give us the Nigeria we have today. Keep believing in yourself, keep learning, and keep making Nigeria proud! Afrilearn is always here to help you grow. See you in the next lesson, superstar!
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