Process of Decolonization in Nigeria

Decolonization is the process by which colonies become independent of the colonizing country. In the Nigerian context, it refers to the political, social, and economic struggle that led to the termination of British colonial rule on October 1, 1960.

1. Nationalism: Meaning and Types

Nationalism is a strong feeling of pride in and devotion to one's country, or the desire by a group of people to be free from foreign rule.

• Cultural Nationalism: The early phase where elites promoted African culture, dress, and religion (e.g., Majola Agbebi).
• Economic Nationalism: Agitation against foreign monopoly of trade and the demand for better wages for African workers.
• Political Nationalism: The struggle for participation in government, self-rule, and total independence.

2. Nationalist Movements: Emergence and Strategies

Nationalist movements emerged due to grievances such as the exclusion of educated Africans from the civil service and the high cost of living. Their strategies included:

• Press and Media: Newspapers like The West African Pilot (Zik) and Daily Service.
• Strikes and Protests: E.g., The 1945 General Strike.
• Political Parties: Organizing the masses for elections.
• Constitutional Conferences: Negotiating with the British in London and Lagos.

3. Key Nationalist Leaders

• Herbert Macaulay: Known as the 'Father of Nigerian Nationalism'. Founded the NNDP in 1923.
• Nnamdi Azikiwe: Founder of the NCNC and the 'West African Pilot'. He championed pan-Africanism.
• Obafemi Awolowo: Leader of the Action Group (AG) and advocate for federalism.
• Ahmadu Bello: Leader of the NPC and Sardauna of Sokoto; he played a key role in Northern political development.
• Aminu Kano: A champion of the commoners (Talakawa) through the NEPU.
• Ladipo Solanke: Founder of the West African Students' Union (WASU) in London.

4. Emergence of Nationalist Parties

• NNDP (1923): Nigeria National Democratic Party, the first political party.
• NYM (1934): Nigerian Youth Movement, the first truly national party.
• NCNC (1944): National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons.
• AG (1951): Action Group, emerged from the Egbe Omo Oduduwa.
• NPC (1951): Northern People's Congress, emerged from the Jam'iyyar Mutanen Arewa.

5. External Factors Influencing Nationalism

Nigerian nationalism was not isolated; it was fueled by global events:

• The Second World War: African soldiers fought for freedom abroad and returned to demand it at home.
• The Atlantic Charter (1941): A document signed by Roosevelt and Churchill promising self-determination for all peoples.
• Independence of India (1947): Showed that the British Empire was breakable.
• Pan-Africanism: Influence of leaders like W.E.B. Du Bois and Marcus Garvey (Back-to-Africa movement).
• The Rise of the USA and USSR: Both superpowers opposed traditional European colonialism.