If you’re reading this on October 1st, then you already know it’s Nigeria’s Independence Day anniversary. In 1960, October was a month of jubilation. Why? Britain proclaimed that it had granted independence to the most prominent black nation.
But in reality, was Nigeria genuinely independent at that time? Let’s delve into this question. The queen was still the head of state, and Nnamdi Azikwe, hailed as Nigeria’s first indigenous governor-general, was seen by many as a mere puppet serving the queen’s interests, at least until 1963 when Nigeria transitioned into a republic, no longer needing to answer to the queen regarding the state of the nation.
Now, you might be wondering, did Nigeria indeed gain independence in 1960?
Nigeria’s Diverse Background:
Nigeria, originally identified as the River Niger area, is a melting pot of multiple ethnic groups, cultures, languages, and abundant natural resources. The British arrived in the Niger area for trade and gained control, especially through the Royal Niger Company led by Sir George Taubman Goldie. However, it wasn’t until December 31, 1899, that the British government revoked the Royal Niger Company’s charter, compensating them with £865,000. This marked the official colonial rule of the British in Nigeria.
Independence Claims:
Historical sources suggest that Nigeria gained its independence in 1897, thanks to Lord Frederick Lugard’s mistress, Miss Flora Shaw, who drew inspiration from the River Niger area (or the Nigga Area as some mischievously submit) . It was in 1914 that Lord Lugard amalgamated the Southern and Northern Protectorates to create modern-day Nigeria. However, in essence, Nigeria remained under British control.
Struggle for Self-Governance:
The desire for self-governance began to stir across Africa, but the British strongly opposed this idea. Notably, Namdi Azikwe, who would later become Nigeria’s Governor General, faced imprisonment for his criticisms of the colonial government. In response to growing demands, the British introduced new constitutions, including the Macpherson Constitution in 1951 and the Littleton Constitution of 1954.
The push for true independence continued, leading to internal self-government granted to the Western Region, led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and the Eastern Region led by Azikwe in 1957. The Northern Region, however, was granted internal self-government in 1959, allowing it time to catch up with the educationally advanced South.
Independence Day, 1960:
On October 1, 1960, Nigeria celebrated Independence Day with immense joy. The British Union Jack was lowered at midnight, and the Nigerian flag stood proudly. Citizens celebrated with fireworks and festivities. Prime Minister Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa delivered a notable speech emphasizing Nigeria’s journey toward self-governance.
Despite the celebrations, analysts argue that Nigeria was not truly independent in 1960. Balewa’s speech still recognized the Queen as the head of Nigeria. Nnamdi Azikiwe, who assumed the office of Governor General, was seen as the Queen’s representative and had to submit reports on the state of the nation in 1961 and 1962. Even Nigeria’s Supreme Court was not fully independent until 1963 when Nigeria eventually became a republic, severing its remaining ties with the British government.
There’s no doubt, Nigeria’s path to true independence was a journey that spanned several years, with the country only becoming a fully sovereign nation in 1963. This transition marked a significant turning point in Nigeria’s history.
