Nationalist And Nationalism In Nigeria Basic 5 Nigerian History Lesson Note

Behavioural Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

1. Give the meaning of nationalism
2. Explain the meaning of a nationalist
3. Describe the characteristics of Nigerian nationalism
4. Explain the reasons for the growth of Nigerian nationalism
5. Examine foremost Nigerian nationalists and their forms of nationalism

Keywords

Nationalism, nationalist, independence, self-governance, colonial rule, racial discrimination, economic monopoly, political consciousness, Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe

Set Induction

Begin by asking pupils what they understand by patriotism and love for one’s country. Discuss how people might feel when their country is controlled by foreigners and what they might do about it.

Entry Behaviour

Pupils should have knowledge of British colonial rule in Nigeria and understand the concept of foreign domination and resistance.

Learning Materials

• Maps of Nigeria during colonial period
• Pictures of prominent Nigerian nationalists
• Textbooks on Nigerian history
• Timeline of nationalist movements
• Historical documents and newspapers

Instructional Materials

• Historical photographs
• Maps showing colonial territories
• Charts displaying nationalist characteristics
• Visual timeline of nationalist activities
• Biographical materials of key figures

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge

Review previous knowledge about traditional nationalism and resistance movements, then connect to how these evolved into modern nationalist movements in the 20th century.

Embedded Core Skills

• Historical analysis
• Critical thinking
• Comparative analysis
• Understanding cause and effect relationships
• Research and inquiry skills

Learning Materials

• Maps and charts
• Textbooks
• Historical documents
• Biographical materials
• Audio-visual materials

Reference Books

• Lagos State Scheme of Work for History
• Nigerian History textbooks
• West African History texts
• Biographies of Nigerian nationalists

Content

1. Meaning of Nationalism

Definition: Nationalism is a strong feeling of pride, loyalty, and devotion to one’s country, combined with the desire for national independence and self-governance. It involves the belief that people sharing common cultural, historical, or ethnic backgrounds should form their own independent nation.

In Nigerian Context: Nigerian nationalism refers to the movement and ideology that sought to end British colonial rule and establish an independent Nigerian nation where Nigerians would govern themselves.

Key Elements:

• Love and devotion to one’s country
• Desire for political independence
• Pride in national identity and culture
• Belief in self-determination
• Opposition to foreign domination

2. Meaning of a Nationalist

Definition: A nationalist is a person who strongly supports and works for the independence, unity, and interests of their nation. A nationalist believes in the right of their people to govern themselves and actively works to achieve this goal.

Characteristics of a Nationalist:

• Patriotic and devoted to their country
• Opposed to foreign rule and domination
• Works for national independence
• Promotes national unity and identity
• Advocates for the rights and interests of their people
• Often makes personal sacrifices for the national cause

Nigerian Nationalists: Individuals who dedicated their lives to fighting for Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule through various means including politics, journalism, education, and civil activism.

3. Characteristics of Nigerian Nationalism

a) Multi-ethnic Nature

• Brought together people from different ethnic groups (Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, etc.)
• Transcended tribal and regional boundaries
• Created a sense of common Nigerian identity

b) Constitutional and Peaceful Approach

• Generally avoided violent confrontation
• Used legal and constitutional means
• Employed negotiations, petitions, and political pressure

c) Elite Leadership

• Led primarily by educated Nigerians
• Involved lawyers, teachers, journalists, and businessmen
• Utilized Western education as a tool for liberation

d) Pan-Nigerian Vision

• Sought unity of all Nigerian territories
• Worked towards a unified independent nation
• Promoted national consciousness across regions

e) Gradual Development

• Evolved slowly over several decades
• Started with demands for reforms, progressed to independence
• Built momentum through various phases

f) Use of Modern Communication

• Utilized newspapers and media
• Organized political parties and associations
• Used education to spread nationalist ideas

4. Reasons for the Growth of Nigerian Nationalism

a) Racial Discrimination

• British Superiority Complex: British officials treated Nigerians as inferior beings
• Segregation Policies: Separate facilities and treatment for Europeans and Africans
• Limited Opportunities: Nigerians were excluded from top positions in government and business
• Social Humiliation: Constant reminder of racial inferiority affected Nigerian dignity

b) British Absolute Economic Monopoly

• Trade Control: British companies controlled all major trade
• Resource Exploitation: Nigerian resources benefited Britain more than Nigeria
• Limited Nigerian Participation: Few opportunities for Nigerians in big business
• Unfair Competition: British policies favored European businesses over local ones

c) Political Exclusion

• Limited Representation: Few Nigerians in legislative councils
• No Self-Governance: All major decisions made by British officials
• Indirect Rule System: Traditional rulers became puppets of colonial government
• Lack of Political Rights: Nigerians had no say in their own governance

d) Educational Awakening

• Western Education: Educated Nigerians understood concepts of democracy and self-rule
• Exposure to Ideas: Knowledge of independence movements in other countries
• Critical Thinking: Education enabled Nigerians to question colonial rule
• Leadership Development: Educated elite provided leadership for nationalist movements

e) World War Experiences

• Military Service: Nigerian soldiers served in World Wars and gained new perspectives
• Exposure to Democracy: Saw how other nations governed themselves
• Promises Unfulfilled: Expected reforms after supporting Britain in wars
• Global Changes: Witnessed decolonization movements worldwide

f) Economic Hardships

• Heavy Taxation: Colonial taxes burdened the people
• Forced Labor: Compulsory labor for colonial projects
• Market Restrictions: Limited access to international markets
• Currency Manipulation: Colonial currency policies disadvantaged locals

5. Foremost Nigerian Nationalists and Their Forms of Nationalism

a) Herbert Macaulay (1864-1946)

Background: Known as the “Father of Nigerian Nationalism”

Form of Nationalism:

• Constitutional Approach: Used legal means and constitutional methods
• Political Organization: Founded the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923
• Journalism: Used newspapers to spread nationalist ideas
• Electoral Politics: Participated in elections and won seats in Legislative Council

Key Activities:

• Fought against land acquisition policies
• Established the first political party in Nigeria
• Mentored younger nationalists
• Used press as weapon against colonial rule

b) Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe (1904-1996)

Background: Prominent nationalist leader and first President of Nigeria

Form of Nationalism:

• Pan-Africanism: Promoted African unity and consciousness
• Educational Nationalism: Established schools and universities
• Media Activism: Founded several newspapers
• Political Leadership: Led major political parties

Key Activities:

• Founded West African Pilot newspaper
• Established University of Nigeria, Nsukka
• Led National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC)
• Promoted “Zikism” ideology

c) Chief Obafemi Awolowo (1909-1987)

Background: Western Region leader and legal practitioner

Form of Nationalism:

• Regional Nationalism: Focused on Yoruba interests while supporting Nigerian unity
• Constitutional Politics: Participated in constitutional conferences
• Social Development: Promoted education and healthcare
• Economic Planning: Advocated for economic development

Key Activities:

• Founded Action Group (AG) political party
• Implemented free primary education in Western Region
• Participated in independence negotiations
• Wrote books on Nigerian development

d) Sir Ahmadu Bello (1910-1966)

Background: Northern Region leader and Sardauna of Sokoto

Form of Nationalism:

• Regional Focus: Concentrated on Northern Nigeria development
• Traditional-Modern Synthesis: Balanced tradition with modernization
• Religious Leadership: Combined Islamic values with nationalism
• Educational Development: Promoted education in the North

Key Activities:

• Led Northern Peoples’ Congress (NPC)
• Served as Premier of Northern Region
• Promoted unity between North and South
• Modernized Northern Nigeria

e) Chief Anthony Enahoro (1923-2010)

Background: Journalist and politician from Mid-Western Region

Form of Nationalism:

• Media Activism: Used journalism to promote independence
• Parliamentary Politics: Served in various legislative bodies
• Constitutional Advocacy: Pushed for constitutional reforms
• Youth Leadership: Started political career at young age

Key Activities:

• Moved motion for independence in 1953
• Founded several newspapers
• Participated in constitutional conferences
• Advocated for minority rights

6. Forms of Nationalism Employed

a) Constitutional Nationalism

• Working within colonial legal framework
• Participating in elections and councils
• Using petitions and legal challenges
• Demanding constitutional reforms

b) Cultural Nationalism

• Promoting African culture and values
• Rejecting cultural imperialism
• Using traditional symbols and languages
• Celebrating Nigerian heritage

c) Economic Nationalism

• Promoting Nigerian businesses
• Demanding economic independence
• Opposing economic exploitation
• Developing local industries

d) Educational Nationalism

• Establishing schools and universities
• Promoting African history and culture
• Training future leaders
• Using education as liberation tool

e) Media Nationalism

• Using newspapers to spread ideas
• Criticizing colonial policies
• Educating the masses
• Building national consciousness

Evaluation

1. What is nationalism? a) Love for foreign countries b) Strong feeling of loyalty and devotion to one’s country c) Hatred for other nations d) Desire to live abroad 
2. A nationalist is someone who: a) Supports foreign rule b) Works for national independence c) Opposes their own country d) Prefers colonial rule 
3. Which characteristic describes Nigerian nationalism? a) Violent approach b) Single ethnic focus c) Multi-ethnic nature d) Anti-education stance 
4. Racial discrimination contributed to nationalism because: a) It made Nigerians feel inferior b) It promoted unity c) It was beneficial d) It created jobs 
5. Who is known as the “Father of Nigerian Nationalism”? a) Nnamdi Azikiwe b) Herbert Macaulay c) Obafemi Awolowo d) Ahmadu Bello 
6. Which political party was founded by Herbert Macaulay? a) NCNC b) Action Group c) NNDP d) NPC 
7. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe founded which newspaper? a) Daily Times b) West African Pilot c) Nigerian Tribune d) New Nigerian 
8. British economic monopoly meant: a) Nigerians controlled trade b) Equal business opportunities c) British companies dominated commerce d) Free trade for all 
9. Constitutional nationalism involved: a) Armed rebellion b) Working within legal framework c) Violent protests d) Complete isolation 
10. Which region was led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo? a) Northern Region b) Eastern Region c) Western Region d) Mid-Western Region 

Assignment

1. Research Project: Choose one Nigerian nationalist and write a detailed biography (300 words) covering their background, contributions to nationalism, and lasting impact on Nigeria. 
2. Comparative Analysis: Compare and contrast the approaches used by Herbert Macaulay and Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe in their nationalist activities. 
3. Timeline Creation: Create a timeline showing the major events in the development of Nigerian nationalism from 1900 to 1960. 

Conclusion

Nigerian nationalism emerged as a response to colonial domination and evolved into a powerful movement that ultimately led to independence in 1960. The movement was characterized by its peaceful, constitutional approach and the unity it created among diverse ethnic groups. The contributions of nationalist leaders like Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and others laid the foundation for modern Nigeria and continue to inspire patriotic service to the nation.