HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF THE NIGERIAN STATE, 1770-1960: REVISITING OUR PAST

Abstract

This article brings to the fore the historical process that led to the birth of modern Nigeria. A people without the knowledge of their past have no clear cause for the future.  Thus, learning and understanding the basic Nigerian history is fundamental for every Nigerian citizen. However, apart from those interested in studying history, most Nigerians are not exposed to basic Nigerian history; hence, they know little  about their past. Though there is quantum literature in the field of historical scholarship, a cursory look shows that topics and lessons on basic Nigerian history are often lacking. Even, when they manage to survive, they appeared grossly inadequate. It is against this backdrop, that this paper becomes timely and important. The paper, therefore, examines the historical evolution of the Nigerian state. It discussed both the internal and external factors to the emergence of modern Nigeria. It, also, highlights the responses of Nigerian peoples in the country’s evolution process. The paper concludes that different Nigerian peoples and ethnic groups had consistently conducted robust and important intergroup relations before their amalgamation in 1914. It refutes the claim that Nigeria was a mistake. The paper is qualitative in research method, and uses a simple historical narrative in its analysis.