Which of the following was a major export commodity of the Oyo Empire during the pre-colonial period?
Answer Details
During the pre-colonial period, the Oyo Empire, which was one of the largest and most influential states in what is today Nigeria, was known for exporting kola nuts. Kola nuts are seeds from the kola tree and were highly prized in trading activities across West Africa due to their stimulating properties. They were often used in social and cultural rituals, as well as for their caffeine content, which made them valuable in trade.
While other commodities such as ivory, salt, and gold were significant in various African trade networks, kola nuts were distinctive as they were considered quite important in the domestic and regional trade of the Oyo Empire. The demand for kola nuts was strong, making them a major export of this empire during that time.