How Nigeria Became Independent: A Short History by Prof. Danladi
Poetic Blogger@poeticblogger
1 month ago
How Nigeria Became Independent: A Short History by Prof. Danladi is a concise and accessible account of Nigeria’s journey to independence. Aimed at readers looking for a clear understanding of the key events, people, and processes that led to Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule, this book offers a well-rounded overview of the country's historical, political, and social context leading up to October 1, 1960.
Prof. Danladi begins by providing a brief but informative look at Nigeria’s pre-colonial era, highlighting the rich cultural diversity and sophisticated political systems of the various kingdoms and empires that existed long before European involvement. The book touches on the influence of major pre-colonial states like the Oyo Empire, the Sokoto Caliphate, and the Kingdom of Benin, giving readers a sense of Nigeria’s deep-rooted heritage.
Moving into the colonial period, the book details the establishment of British control over Nigeria, starting from the late 19th century. Prof. Danladi explains the process of amalgamation in 1914, when the Northern and Southern Protectorates were merged to form a single administrative entity under British colonial rule. This amalgamation set the stage for many of the political and ethnic challenges that Nigeria would face in the years to come.
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the rise of Nigerian nationalism and the efforts of key figures who fought for independence. Leaders such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello are highlighted for their roles in advocating for self-governance and leading the country through critical negotiations with the British government. The book also discusses the political movements and parties that emerged, as well as the critical role of media and civil society in pushing for independence.
Prof. Danladi captures the sense of optimism and national pride that surrounded Nigeria’s attainment of independence on October 1, 1960. However, he also points out the challenges that lay ahead for the new nation, including ethnic divisions, regional tensions, and the difficulties of creating a unified government in a deeply diverse country.
How Nigeria Became Independent is a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand Nigeria’s independence movement in a straightforward and engaging way. Prof. Danladi’s writing is clear, concise, and informative, making it an ideal introduction for students, young readers, and anyone with an interest in African history. The book serves not only as a historical overview but also as a reminder of the resilience, determination, and unity that brought Nigeria to independence.
