PROCESS OF DECOLONIZATION
Decolonization refers to the process through which African countries, including Nigeria, gained
independence from colonial powers, particularly Britain in the case of Nigeria. It was marked by the
emergence of nationalist sentiments, movements, leaders, and political parties advocating for self-
governance.
Nationalism – Meaning and Types
Nationalism is the political ideology and movement that promotes the interests of a particular nation,
especially with the aim of gaining and maintaining self-governance.
Meaning (In the Nigerian Context): Nigerian nationalism refers to the desire by Nigerians to gain
independence from British colonial rule and govern themselves. It grew in response to colonial
exploitation, racial discrimination, and political marginalization.
Types of Nationalism:
1. Cultural Nationalism: Focused on the revival of indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions.
Example: Yoruba and Igbo cultural unions.
2. Political Nationalism: Sought constitutional reforms and self-governance. Example: Nigerian
Youth Movement, NCNC.
3. Economic Nationalism: Aimed at ending economic domination by foreigners. Advocated for
economic self-reliance.
4. Religious Nationalism: Emphasized the freedom to practice indigenous or major religions
without colonial interference.
Nationalist Movements – Emergence, Goals, Strategies
Emergence: Nationalist movements in Nigeria emerged in the early 20th century, especially
after World War I. Educated elites and returnees from the diaspora led the charge against
colonial rule.
Goals of Nationalist Movements
i. Attainment of self-rule and independence.
ii. Promotion of African identity and heritage.
iii. Eradication of racial discrimination.
iv. Economic emancipation from foreign control.
v. Political reforms for participation in governance.
Strategies Employed:
I. Formation of Political Parties: Example: NNDP, NCNC, AG, NPC.
II. Newspapers and the Media: Used to criticize colonial policies. Examples: West African Pilot
(Azikiwe), Daily Times.
III. Petitions and Delegations: Sent to Britain to demand reforms.
IV. Trade Union Activities: Organized strikes and protests. Example: 1945 General Strike.
V. Educational Campaigns: Encouraged mass education to raise political awareness.
Nationalist Leaders
Herbert Macaulay:
i. Regarded as the "Father of Nigerian Nationalism.
ii. Founded the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923.
iii. Opposed colonial exploitation and inspired later nationalists.
Nnamdi Azikiwe:
i. Prominent nationalist and first President of Nigeria.
ii. Founded the West African Pilot to spread nationalist ideas.
iii. Co-founded the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC).
Obafemi Awolowo:
i. Founded the Action Group (AG).
ii. Advocated for federalism and education.
iii. Promoted Yoruba interests through cultural nationalism.
Ahmadu Bello:
i. Leader of the Northern People’s Congress (NPC).
ii. Promoted Northern interests but later supported national unity.
Ladipo Solanke:
i. Founded the West African Students' Union (WASU) in London.
ii. Fought against racial discrimination and supported student activism.
Aminu Kano:
i. Leader of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU).
ii. Advocated for the poor and talakawa (commoners).
Promoted social justice and political inclusion.
J.S. Tarka:
i. Middle Belt leader and founder of the United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC).
ii. Fought for the rights of ethnic minorities in the North.
Tafawa Balewa:
i. First Prime Minister of Nigeria.
ii. Played a diplomatic role in the transition to independence.
Emergence of Nationalist Parties
Political parties emerged to organize nationalist efforts and provide platforms for agitation against
colonial rule.
Notable Nationalist Parties:
Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) – 1923:
Founded by Herbert Macaulay.
First political party in Nigeria.
National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) – 1944:
Formed by Azikiwe and Macaulay.
Major force in nationalist agitation.
Action Group (AG) – 1951:
Founded by Obafemi Awolowo.
Focused on Western Nigeria and federalism.
Northern People’s Congress (NPC) – 1949:
Represented Northern interests.
Led by Ahmadu Bello.
Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) – 1950:
Radical opposition group in the North led by Aminu Kano.
United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC):
Represented minority ethnic groups in the Middle Belt.
Influence of External Factors
Several external developments contributed to the rise and success of nationalist movements:
World War I and II:
i. Exposed colonial troops to Western ideas of freedom and democracy.
ii. Increased demand for political rights after the wars.
Atlantic Charter (1941):
i. Signed by Britain and the USA.
ii. Promised self-determination for all peoples.
Pan-Africanism:
i. Movement promoting African unity and freedom.
ii. Inspired Nigerian students and leaders abroad.
Activities of WASU:
i. Campaigned for African students’ welfare and anti-colonialism.
Decolonization in Other African Countries:
I. Inspired Nigeria to demand independence, especially Ghana's independence in 1957.
Formation of the United Nations (UN):
i. Emphasized human rights and self-determination.
