(a) State two objectives of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC). (b) Describe four achievements of the NCNC.

Answer Details

(a) Two objectives of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC)

1. To achieve self-government and independence for Nigeria: The party sought the termination of British colonial rule and the attainment of political freedom.
2. To promote national unity: It aimed to weld the various peoples of Nigeria into one nation and to foster a spirit of common nationhood across ethnic and regional lines.

(Other acceptable objectives: to raise the political consciousness of the people, to protect the interests and welfare of Nigerians, to secure a truly national and democratic constitution.)

(b) Four achievements of the NCNC

1. It championed the independence struggle: Under leaders such as Herbert Macaulay and Nnamdi Azikiwe, it was in the forefront of the nationalist agitation that led to Nigeria's independence in 1960.
2. It raised national political consciousness: Through its newspapers and mass rallies it awakened political awareness and educated Nigerians on their rights.
3. It formed governments: The NCNC controlled the government of the Eastern Region and, at various times, participated in coalition governments at the centre, thereby gaining administrative experience for Nigerians.
4. It led the 1947 delegation to Britain: The party organised a delegation to London to protest against the Richards Constitution, demonstrating organised opposition to imposed constitutions.

(Other acceptable achievements: it broadened its membership across ethnic groups as a pan-Nigerian party; it produced prominent nationalist leaders; it contributed to constitutional advancement.)