Describe six factors that led to the growth of nationalism in Nigeria before 1945.

Answer Details

Six factors that led to the growth of nationalism in Nigeria before 1945

1. The impact of Western education: Education produced an enlightened elite who became conscious of their rights, understood the principles of freedom and self-government, and led the demand for political rights.
2. The activities of the press: Newspapers such as the Lagos Daily News and the West African Pilot exposed the injustices of colonial rule, educated the people politically and awakened national consciousness.
3. Formation of political parties and associations: Bodies such as the Nigerian National Democratic Party (1923) and the Nigerian Youth Movement (1934) organised the people and voiced their grievances against colonial rule.
4. Economic exploitation and grievances: Resentment against colonial economic policies, discrimination in employment and pay, heavy taxation and the domination of trade by foreign firms bred discontent and the desire for change.
5. Influence of returnees and Pan-Africanism: Nigerians who had studied or lived abroad, together with Pan-African movements and the ideas of leaders such as Marcus Garvey, inspired racial pride and the demand for self-rule.
6. The influence of Christian missionaries and returned ex-slaves: Missionary activity and the return of educated ex-slaves helped spread new ideas of liberty, equality and self-improvement.

Other factors include improved communication and transport, which brought people together and eased the spread of nationalist ideas, and racial discrimination that united Nigerians against colonial rule.