Highlight six political changes introduced into the Nigerian political system by the 1954 Constitution.

Answer Details

The 1954 Lyttleton Constitution introduced several important political changes into the Nigerian political system. Six of them are highlighted below.

1. Introduction of a true federal system: Nigeria formally became a federation of three regions (Northern, Western and Eastern) with a clear division of powers between the centre and the regions.
2. Lagos made a federal territory: Lagos was separated from the Western Region and made the federal capital territory.
3. Regional autonomy and premiers: Each region was given greater autonomy, and the post of Regional Premier was created to head each regional government.
4. Distribution of legislative powers: Exclusive, concurrent and residual legislative lists were introduced to share powers between the federal and regional governments.
5. Regionalisation of the public/civil service and judiciary: The civil service and certain services were regionalised so that regions could run their own.
6. Provision for regional self-government: Regions were allowed to become self-governing when ready, which the East and West achieved in 1957 and the North in 1959.

It also abolished the office of the central Governor's control over regional executive matters and strengthened the powers of the regions.