Nigerian People and Culture GST103 (PDFDrive)

2 Contents
COURSE MANUAL
Nigerian People and Culture

GST103
Modibbo Adama University of Technology

Open and Distance Learning Course Development Series
2017 Academic Collective.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission
of the copyright owner – Academic Collective.
Institution:
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.cdl.mautech.edu.ng
4 Contents
Course Development Team
Credits
All illustrations (photos and charts) used are sourced from www.edutechportal.org/resources except otherwise
indicated. Credits / sources are properly placed by the image.
Nigerian People and Culture
Contents
About this Course Manual 1
How this Course Manual is structured .................................................................................................................................. 1
Course overview 3
Welcome to Nigerian People and Culture GST103 .......................................................................................................... 3
Nigerian People and Culture GST103 — is this course for you? ................................................................................ 3
Course outcomes ........................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Study Skills ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Timeframe ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 4
Need help? ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Academic Support ......................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Assessments .................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
List of Figures .................................................................................................................................................................................. 6
List of Tables .................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Study Session 1 9
Notable Ethnic Groups in Northern Nigeria ....................................................................................................................... 9
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
1.1 Introduction to an Entity Called “Nigeria ................................................................................................................... 10
1.2 The Hausa Culture................................................................................................................................................................ 11
1.3 The Fulani Culture ................................................................................................................................................................ 15
1.4 The Kanuri Culture ............................................................................................................................................................... 17
1.5 The Nupe Culture ................................................................................................................................................................. 19
Session Review ............................................................................................................................................................................. 20
Assessment .................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Resources........................................................................................................................................................................................ 21
Study Session 2 22
Notable Ethnic Groups in Southern Nigeria ..................................................................................................................... 22
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
2.1 The Yoruba Culture.............................................................................................................................................................. 23
2.2 The Igbo Culture ................................................................................................................................................................... 28
2.3 The Bini Culture..................................................................................................................................................................... 31
2.4 The Itsekiri Culture ............................................................................................................................................................... 33
2.5 The Ijaw Culture .................................................................................................................................................................... 34
Session Review ............................................................................................................................................................................. 36
Assessment .................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
Resources........................................................................................................................................................................................ 37
Study Session 3 39
Cultural Zones in Nigeria.......................................................................................................................................................... 39
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................... 39
3.1 Cultural Areas of Nigeria and Their Characteristics ................................................................................................ 40
ii Contents
3.2 Linguistic Classifications .................................................................................................................................................... 41

3.3 Nigeria Geographical Location ....................................................................................................................................... 43
Session Review ............................................................................................................................................................................. 44
Assessment .................................................................................................................................................................................... 45
Resources........................................................................................................................................................................................ 45
Study Session 4 47
Cultural Zones in Nigeria II ...................................................................................................................................................... 47
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................... 47
4.1 Northern Zone ....................................................................................................................................................................... 48
4.2 Central Zone ........................................................................................................................................................................... 52
4.3 Western Zone ........................................................................................................................................................................ 53
4.4 Eastern Zone .......................................................................................................................................................................... 55
Session Review ............................................................................................................................................................................. 55
Assessment .................................................................................................................................................................................... 56
Resources........................................................................................................................................................................................ 56
Study Session 5 58
The Evolution of Nigeria ........................................................................................................................................................... 58
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................... 58
5.1 The Evolution of Nigeria .................................................................................................................................................... 59
5.2 Amalgamation ....................................................................................................................................................................... 60
5.3 Reasons for the Amalgamation ...................................................................................................................................... 62
5.4 Colonial Rule .......................................................................................................................................................................... 62
5.5 Constitutional Developments .......................................................................................................................................... 64
Session Review ............................................................................................................................................................................. 66
Assessment .................................................................................................................................................................................... 66
Resources........................................................................................................................................................................................ 67
Study Session 6 68
The Economy and National Development ........................................................................................................................ 68
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................... 68
6.1 Nigerian Economic System Pre- and post-Independence ................................................................................... 69
6.2 The Structure of Economic Activities in Nigeria....................................................................................................... 70
6.3 Major Problems of the Nigerian Economy................................................................................................................. 72
Session Review ............................................................................................................................................................................. 75
Assessment .................................................................................................................................................................................... 75
Resources........................................................................................................................................................................................ 75
Study Session 7 76
Citizenship Education ................................................................................................................................................................ 76
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................... 76
7.1 Rights, Duties and Obligations of a Citizen ............................................................................................................... 77
7.2 Patterns of Citizenship Acquisition ............................................................................................................................... 78
7.3 Negative Attitudes of Nigerian Youth ......................................................................................................................... 79
Session Review ............................................................................................................................................................................. 83
Assessment .................................................................................................................................................................................... 84
Resources........................................................................................................................................................................................ 84
Study Session 8 85
Nigerian Environmental Problems ........................................................................................................................................ 85
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................... 85
8.1 Major Components of the Natural Environments ................................................................................................... 86
8.2 Causes of Environmental Problems .............................................................................................................................. 88
8.3 Solutions to Environmental Problems.......................................................................................................................... 89
Session Review ............................................................................................................................................................................. 90
Assessment .................................................................................................................................................................................... 91
Resources........................................................................................................................................................................................ 91
Feedback to SAQ Items 93
References 97
GST103 Nigerian People and Culture
About this Course Manual

Nigerian People and Culture GST103 is provided to you by MAUTECH-CDL, AS
IS. Module is localised and adapted to ODL format under the Academic Collective.
How this Course Manual is

structured
Course overview
The course overview gives you a general introduction to the course. Information
contained in the course overview will help you determine:
 If the course is suitable for you.
 What you can expect from the course.
 How much time you will need to invest to complete the course.
 Where to get help.
 Course assessments.
We strongly recommend that you read the overview carefully before

starting your study.
The course content

The course is broken down into Study Sessions. Each Study Session comprises:
 An introduction to the Study Session content.
 Learning outcomes.
 Study Session preview.
 New terminology.
 Structured content of the study session with a variety of focus articles, learning
activities and learning devices.
 Study Session review.
 Self Assessments.
 Resources for further studying.
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Your comments
After completing Nigerian People and Culture we would appreciate it if you would
take a few moments to give us your feedback on any aspect of this course. Your
feedback might include comments on:
 Course content and structure.
 Course reading materials and resources.
 Course assessments.
 Course duration.
Your constructive feedback will help us to improve and enhance this course. You
can forward your comments to [email protected]
2
Course overview
Welcome to Nigerian
People and Culture GST103
Education is transfer of culture from one generation to another. This course
provides an overview on Nigerian people and culture. It is suitable as a general
course for all Nigerian universities undergraduates.
This course manual supplements and complements a blend of resources &
platforms:
GST103 Audiobook – available via Audio Resources Library app on your official
mobile device and accessible online at: www.arlibrary.cdl.mautech.edu.ng.
GST103 Courseware – available in your course pack as a disk, it is also
downloadable from your course website: www.cdl.mautech.edu.ng/schoolboard.
Schoolboard –offers a multi-channel platform for you to discuss with content
experts and other learners from across the nation and the globe at large. You may
also use the platform to enrich your learning with engaging webinars, articulate
presentations, smart puzzles, audiobooks, podcasts, interactive gloassaries, smart
quizzes, case studies and discussions. Schoolboard comes with updates and is
accessible on web and on app. It is also linkable from your course CD.
Nigerian People and

Culture GST103 — is this
course for you?
This a general course for students. It enables them to know the diverse cultures and
practices within Nigeria. It also takes the students into the history of Nigeria as a
nation. It looks at the incidents before during and after colonization.
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Course outcomes
Upon completion of Nigerian People and Culture GST103, you will be able to:
 trace the History of Nigeria

Outcomes  differentiate between the Hausas, Fulani, Kanuri and Nupe
 understand the Yoruba, Igbo, Bini, Itsekiri and Ijaw Cultures
 point out cultural areas within Nigeria
 know the zones within Nigeria
 explain Nigerian economic system before, during and after colonization
 discuss the rights and duties of a citizen
Study Skills
Being a self-learner has become increasingly feasible due to Open and Distance
Learning (ODL) Systems. Studying a course or obtaining a certificate for career
advancement can occur from the comfort of your home, on your own time, and at
your own pace.
You can be a successful higher education student by self learning, it isn't magic!
But it does require desire, dedication and a lot of work. Active listening to your
audiobook, desktop publishing on your laptops, reading comprehension in your
course manual, notetaking in the white margins, stress management, time
management, assessment taking, and memorization are study skills required for a
self learner.
If you really want to learn how to become a successful student, then you should
explore the links that follow:
 http://www.oercommons.org/courses/communication-skills-study-skills-
pdf/view
 http://www.edutechportal.org/resources/studyskills
Timeframe
This is a 15 week course. It requires a formal study time of 12 hours. We recommend you
take an average of one to two hours for an extra personal study on each Study Session. You
can also benefit from online discussions with your course tutor.
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Need help?
You may contact via any of the following channels for information, learning
resources and library services.
CDL Student Support Desk
Email: [email protected]
For technical issues (computer problems, web access, and etcetera), please visit:
www.cdl.mautech.edu.ng/support; or send mail to [email protected].
Academic Support
A course facilitator is commissioned for this course. You have also been assigned
an academic tutor to provide learning support. See contacts of your course
facilitator and academic advisor at the course website:
www.cdl.mautech.edu.ng/schoolboard
Assessments
Generally, there are two types of assessment: formative assessment and summative
assessment. With regards to your formative assessment, there are three basic forms
of assessment in the course: in-text questions (SELF-CHECKs), self assessment
questions (SAQs), and tutor marked assessment (TMAs). This manual provides you
with SELF-CHECKs and SAQs. Feedbacks to the SELF-CHECKs are placed
immediately after the questions, while the feedbacks to SAQs are at the rear of
manual.
You will receive your TMAs as assignments at the MAUTECH schoolboard
platform. Some of your TMAs will be graded and will constitute 30 percent of your
course marks. Feedbacks to TMAs will be provided by your tutor in not more than 2
weeks after entries.
Your summative assessment is your final examination. GST103 exam is in multiple
choice / essay format; and it carries 70 percent of your total earning in the course.
Schedule dates for submitting assignments and engaging in course activities is

available on the course website.
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List of Figures
Figure 1.1: Map of Nigeria showing its boundaries 10
Figure 1.2 A depiction of Bayajidda legend 12
Figure 1.3 Map showing the Hausa city-states 12
Figure 1.4 Map showing the Hausa Bakwai states and its neighbours 13
Figure 1.5: Sokoto Caliphate and its boundaries 13
Figure 1.6 An example of Hausa horsemen in an Emir entourage 14
Figure 1.7 A general map showing Fulani States in 1830 15
Figure 1.8: A Fulani cattle herder 16
Figure 1.9 Fulani distribution in West Africa 16
Figure 1.10 Borno in 1810 17
Figure 1.11: Council of the Shehu of Borno in 1826 18
Figure 1.12 A Nok head with Nupe features 19
Figure 2.1 Map showing Yoruba areas in Nigeria 24
Figure 2.3 A Yoruba Crown 25
Figure 2.4 Ooni of Ife 26
Figure 2.5 Alaafin of Oyo 26
Figure 2.6 The Ori Olokun 26
Figure 2.7 Yoruba masquerades 27
Figure 2.8 The Omu Arochukwu 28
Figure 2.9 Map of Igboland 29
Figure 2.10: The Igbo-Ukwu rope pot 30
Figure 2.11a Benin is known for her castings 31
Figure 2.11b A casting of Bini monarch 32
Figure 2.12: Ancient Benin City 32
Figure 2.12: Niger-Delta 33
Figure 2.13 Ijaw people in ceremonial dress 35
Figure 3.1: Map of Nigeria showing areas of well-known ethnic groups 40
Figure 3.2: Map of Nigeria showing various Linguistic groups and their location 41
Figure 3.3: Language families in Africa 42
Figure 3.4: Afro-Asiatic people in Nigeria 43
Figure 3.5 Map showing Yoruba Areas 44
Figure 3.6: Map showing Igbo areas 44
Figure 4.1: Cultural performance in the Northern zone 49
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Figure 4.2: Four Hausa

gun carrier of the South Nigerian Regiment (Source: Sir Benjamin Stone) 50
Figure 4.3: The art of the Hausa 50
Figure 4.4: The Fulani of Northern Nigeria 51
Figure 4.5 Kanuri, Yerwa, Berberi in Nigeria 51
Figure 4.6: Map showing the notable cultural groups in the Central zone 52
Figure 4.7: Edo ivory mask 54
Figure 5.1 Lord Frederick Lugard 60
Figure 5.2 Map showing the amalgamation of Nigeria 61
Figure 5.3 Map showing the different ethnic groups in the British amalgamated territory
known as Nigeria 63
Figure 6.1 Economic map of Nigeria 70
Figure 6.2: GDP in 1990 and 2003 71
Figure 6.3 Nigerian vegetation zones 73
Figure 7.1: The Nigerian Coat of Arms 78
Figure 7.2 EFCC men at work 80
Figure 7.3 Indecent Dressing 81
Figure 7.4 Political Thugs 82
Figure 7.5 NECO Chief displaying what was caught with a student in an exam hall. 82
Figure 8.1: Environmental components 86
Figure 8.2: Kwa Falls in Cross River State 87
Figure 8.3: Savannah plain 87
Figure 8.4: Flood submerged houses 89
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List of Tables
No table of contents entries found.
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Study Session 1
In the next set of sessions, we will be exploring the constituent units that makes up
Nigeria. This Study Session is prepared to introduce to you to the northern part of
the country. Most central to our discussion here is the analysis of the major ethnic
groups that made up of the Northern Nigeria and its territorial configurations.
Learning Outcomes
When you have studied this session, you should be able to:
1.1 define and use correctly all of the key words printed in bold
1.2 identify the origins of the following ethnic groups: Hausa, Fulani,
Kanuri, and Nupe
1.3 outline the socio-political organizations of these cultures
Notable Ethnic Group Introduction to an

in Northern Nigeria Entity Called Nigeria
The Hausa Culture
The Fulani Culture
The Kanuri Culture
The Nupe Culture
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Study Session 1 Notable Ethnic Groups in Northern Nigeria
This Study Session requires a one hour of formal study time. You may spend an
additional two hours for revision.
Terminologies
We start by introducing Nigeria to you. Nigeria is situated between latitudes 400E

and 1400N and longitude 300E and 1400E of the Greenwich meridian. It is bounded
in the west by the Republic of Benin, on the north by the Republic of Niger, on the
north-east, by Lake Chad, on the east by the Republic of Cameroun and in the south
by the Atlantic Ocean. It has a total area of 923, 768 square kilometres. It has a total
of 910, 768 landed mass and 13,000 square kilometre water ways. It is mostly
located in the tropical region. Nigeria has a population of about 167 million
(National Population Commission August, 2012) people roughly equally divided
between males and females and Christians and Muslims.
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As one moves from the south to the north, the vegetation progressively changes
from tropical rain forest to savannah grassland. Typically, there are two main
seasons: rainy season and dry season interspersed by the harmattan season. The
rains are heaviest in the south and thinnest in the north. Since the 1970s desert
encroachment and desertification have become a serious environmental problem to
the northernmost states. From the environment we now move to the different people
of Nigeria. The peoples of Nigeria are varied as would be discussed in detail below.
There are about 500 different ethnic groups within the boundaries of Nigeria.
You may know that the major ethnic groups are Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Kanuri,
Fulani, Bini, Tiv, Ijaw, and Nupe. There are some states that have more than ten
different ethnic groups speaking different languages. The ethnic, cultural and
economic variations and long years of intermingling among the various groups have
combined to produce very rich cultures and art forms which form the heritage of
modern Nigeria.
As you are aware, you are a part of the culture of your ethnic group. Culture, is a
total way of life of a people in their attempt to harness and conquer their
environment. It is what gives meaning to their politics, economics, language,
dietary, religion, philosophy, aesthetics, etc. The Hausa are predominantly found in
the north-western part of Nigeria. They were substantially Islamized even before the
Sokoto Jihad of 1804. As clearly demonstrated by Smith (1965), by the time of the
Jihad a distinction could be made between the pagan Hausa and the Muslim Hausa.
Immigration and conquest mark Hausa history. The Hausa people themselves are
groupings of a number of different people who have been incorporated into the
“original” stock through conquest and assimilation. Homogeneity of the Hausa
stems from a common language and religion (Islam). The Hausa claim to have
descended from a certain hero named Bayajida (or Abu Yazid as depicted in Fig.
1.2 below), a refugee prince from Baghdad. The legend states that after leaving the
Middle East, he stayed for a while in Kanem, where he married a daughter of the
Mai (or king) called Magira. Later on he fled westward in order to escape the wrath
of his father-in law, the Mai, and abandoned his wife who had already born him a
male child. Before reaching Daura, where he was credited to have killed an evil
snake that was preventing people of the town from drawing water from a well, he
briefly stayed in Gaya.
11
Perhaps because of his bravery and as a reward, he is believed to have later married
the Queen of Daura (Magajiya), which enabled him to become the ruler of the state.
His descendants are claimed to have founded what was known as the seven Hausa
states of Biram, Bagauda (Kano), Gunguma (Zazzau), Duma (Gobir), Kumayo
(Katsina), Zamma (Rano) and Gazora (Daura). These were collectively referred to
as the Hausa Bakwai. (see Fig. 1.3 and 1.4)
12
Distinctively, the pagan Hausa lived in small villages of exogamous patrilineal kin
and they worshiped natural spirits which were referred to as Iskoki. They were
predominantly gatherers and farmers. The Muslim Hausa had a large centralized
system. They had highly developed technologies and economy. The Hausa were
famous for leatherwork, cloth making, dyeing, iron-making, trading, etc.
From what you have learnt, the Hausa are reputable long-distance traders and great
cultivators. They also tended to be literate in Arabic, resulting from the influence of
Islam and the Sokoto Jihad.
13
It is important to know that the head of a typical Hausa state was the Sarki, who was
supported by a retinue of officials in an elaborate court. In political terms, the
development of the office of the Sarki of a birni (city) like Kano was very
significant. His full title was Sarkin Kasa, meaning: ‘ruler of the land’ (Fig. 1.6) and
not just the city. Thus, he was both a political and religious leader of the people. He
was also the chief executive and judge of the state. He was aided by a council of
state. However, with the introduction of Islam in the 14th and 15th centuries, new
socio-political institutions – combination of social and political factors – were
introduced into the Hausa political structure. For example, the offices of the
Galadima (senior counselor), Madawaki (palace administrator), Magaji (overseer),
Dogari (guard), and Zagi (orderly) have roots in the Islamization of Hausaland
during the two centuries. The judicial and fiscal systems were similarly influenced
by Islam. Such titles, concepts and institutions as the Alkali or the Qadi (judge),
Zakat (tax on income), Jangali (tax on livestock) became commonplace in the
administration of the state.
14
Now that you have completed the study of the Hausa, there is another notable ethnic
group that lives side-by-side with the Hausa and others. This is the Fulani ethnic
group. The Fulani ethnic group is largely nomadic. They are believed to have
originated from the Futa Jalon highland region of West Africa from where they
migrated in stages to various places in the West African sub-region. (Fig. 1.7)
Fulani is a notable ethnic group in Northern Nigeria. They are described differently
as follows: “Peul” by the Wolof, “Fula” by the Bambara, “Fellata” by the Kanuri
and are generally called Fulani by other Nigerians. The Fulani call themselves
“Fulbe”. They profess Islam while others maintain syncretic practice and their main
occupational activity is cattle-rearing by the males and cow-milking by the females.
The Fulanis are of two categories, namely: fulanin daji (nomadic) fulani and fulanin
gida (sedentary) fulani. The former, who have maintained their nomadic way of life,
move from one place to another in search of pasture or grazing land for their
livestock. The latter have settled in towns and villages teaching, farming, trading
etc.
15
The Fulani are widely distributed in West Africa most especially in the Sahel,
wandering from one spot to another with their herds of cattle (Fig. 1.8). In fact, they
are found in almost every country of the Sudan zone of West Africa extending from
the Senegal area in the West to the Upper Nile in the east. (Fig. 1.9)
The pastoral Fulani’s life is principally basic and simple. They strive to maintain
their tradition and culture wherever they go. They generally adhere to a code of
behaviour referred to as pulaaku which suggests they must exhibit the following
qualities: shiness, bravery, ownership of cows etc. In the pre-colonial period, the
Fulani, under Shehu Usman Danfodiyo’s leadership, were able to revive Islam in
most parts of the Hausaland. Following the Jihad, (an aggressive campaign for an
idea) they functioned basically as administrators and sometimes as cultivators. As
devout Muslims, they were very instrumental in assisting Shehu Usman Danfodiyo
in the execution of the popular Sokoto Jihad which helped in the socio-political as
well as the religious changes of Northern Nigeria in the course of the nineteenth
century.
16
Another notable ethnic group in Nigeria is the Kanuri. There are many versions of
Kanuri origin. The “So” version reveals that Kanuri were the original settlers in
Kanem-Borno. They developed a sophisticated socio-political culture based on
agriculture and the knowledge of the use of iron technology. In addition to the “So”
version there is the Saif bin Dhi Yazan myth. This version attributes the foundation
of the Kanem-Borno polity to the great Arab hero Saif bin Dhi Yazan of Himyar,
which supposedly happened between the 9th and the 10th centuries CE. Saif was
also credited to have established the renowned Saifawa Dynasty (refer to Fig. 1.10).
17
The socio-political organization of the Kanem-Borno people was based on kingship.

For instance, the Mai (king) was the highest authority in the political structure of the
empire. The mother of the Mai, known as magira was a very important and
respected personality in the Kanem-Borno political structure. The sister of the Mai
(mogaram) was also important because she assisted the Mai in the administration of
the empire. Another political institution that is kingship oriented in the Kanuri
Culture was an imperial state council known as the council of the twelve or the
“Nokena”, which acted in advisory capacity to the Mai.
This khadi was the chief judge of the state. He plays a major role in the Kanuri
political structure as the chief judge and the legal advisor to the Mai. The army
played a significant role in the Kanem-Borno political system. It was a professional
army divided strategically into two divisions: Home and Bush Garrisons. Another
institution of the Kanem-Borno political structure was the titled nobility. They were
known to have exercised great influence in state affairs and the Mai assigned to the
fiefdoms to administer. The most important of these titles were the Galadima
(governor of the western province), the Kaigama (commander in chief of the army),
the Yerima (governor of Yeri province) and the Mustrema (queen mother’s
representative fief).
18
Slaves and eunuchs made up the servile. They also played important roles in the
administration of the dynasty and held offices such as the Mushemu, Yuroma and
Kachalla.
This ethnic group can be found in central part of Nigeria. Like many Nigerian
ethnic groups, the Nupe people have different versions of origin. Many scholars
believe that the early Nupe people originated from where they are presently (part of
Kogi, Kwara and Niger States). Other scholars argued that the first people of Nupe
originated from Egypt. Hence Egypt seems to be the origin of Nupe people in this
regard. Edegi is considered by some Nupe people as the founder of their state; and
according to Nupe tradition Edegi might have arrived in the early Sixteenth Century
from Idah. He (Edegi) was also believed to have had an Igala father and a Nupe
mother. Historical traditions reveal that the Nupe people had at a time paid
allegiance and tribute to the Atta of the Igala state. To them (the Nupe) in the
Sixteenth Century, a hero, an Idah prince, known as Tsoede re-established Nupe
independence with himself as the Etsu Nupe (King of Nupeland).
Regarding their religion, the Nupe people are highly Islamized group found in the
Niger valley above its confluence with the Benue. A strong Nupe kingdom had
19
existed since the 15th Century up to the Jihad. The Fulbe jihad leaders who took
over Nupe land were completely absorbed into Nupe culture and became Nupe. The
Nupe are a highly united group. A unity sustained by a belief in common origin, a
common language and culture, the symbol of the Etsu Nupe and a feeling of Nupe
consciousness. Due to early contact with the Europeans on the river Niger, they are
highly westernized. Etsu Nupe was known as the head of the Nupe kingdom. He
operated a two-level administration: central and provincial. Etsu Nupe enjoyed a
divine status and people worshipped him and respected him. His words were laws.
His power and actions were regulated by a body of traditions and taboos. Besides
the Etsu Nupe there was a class of powerful gentlemen called nobility. Its main task
is to help the king carry out his duties as leader. Such nobility include: shaba,
kpotuh and maku.
In this study session, you learnt that:

1 The Hausa are found in the North Western part of Nigeria. They were substantially Islamized even before
the Sokoto Jihad of 1804.
2 The Fulani is an ethnic group in the North and are believed to have originated from the Futa Jalon highland
region of West Africa from where they migrated to various places in the West African Sub-region. The
Fulani are of two groups, namely pastoral Fulani (Fulanin Daji) and sedentary Fulani (Fulanin Gida).
3 The Kanuri have different versions of origin, the “So” version of the Kanuri origin states that, the “So” were
the first settlers in the Kanem-Borno, while the Saif bin Dhi Yazan version attributes the foundation of
Kanem Borno to the great Arab hero Saif bin Dhi Yazan who was credited to have established the popular
Saifawa Dynasty.
4 As for the Nupe Culture, some scholars argued that they originated from Egypt. However, the Idah version is
20
that, Edegi was the founder of their state. He was believed to have had an Igala father and a Nupe mother. It
was also believed that the Nupe people at one time paid allegiance and tribute to Atta of the Igala state.
5 The socio-political organisations of Hausa comprised the following: i. Galadima ii. Madawaki iii. Magaji
iv. Dogari v. Zagi
6 The socio-political organizations of Kanuri comprised the following: i. The Mai ii. Magira iii. The Mainin
Kinendi iv. The Army v. the Kaigama
7 The Fulbe seem to have no political organisation before 19th Century, rather they adopted the Hausa Socio-
political structure.
8 The socio-political organisations of Nupe comprised the following: i. Etsu Nupe ii. Shaba iii. Kpotuh iv.
Maku
The Hausa, the Fulani, the Kanuri and the Nupe are the notable ethnic groups in Northern Nigeria. Trace the
origin of each of the above mentioned ethnic groups.
If the head of government in Hausa culture is called Sarkin Kasa, what is he called in Kanuri and Nupe cultures?
Articulate Presentation
This is a complimentary resource to facilitate the quick delivery of this session. It is available in your course pack
(Schoolboard disc / online page), and also linked here.
Schoolboard
Access your schoolboard app, or visit www.schoolboard.edutechportal.org/introductiontomicroeconomics to
access updated online activities and resources related to the units of this Study Session.
21
Study Session 2 Notable Ethnic Groups in Southern Nigeria
Study Session 2
In the previous session, you learnt about the notable ethnic groups in Northern
Nigeria. In this Study Session, we shall be extending our discourse to the notable
ethnic groups in southern Nigeria which includes Yoruba, Igbo, Bini, Itsekiri and
Ijaw (Izon). The focus will be on their origins and their socio-political
organisations.
Learning Outcomes
2.1 identify the origins of the following ethnic groups: Yoruba, Igbo, Bini,
Ijaw and Itsekiri.
2.2 outline the socio-political organisations of these cultures
Notable Ethnic Groups

The Yoruba Culture
in Southern Nigeria
The Igbo Culture
The Bini Culture
The Itsekiri Culture
The Ijaw Culture
22
Terminologies
The ethnic group now commonly referred to as the ‘Yoruba’ have been identified
by different names spanning millenniums and centuries. Pacheco Pereira identified
them in 1500 as the Lucumi while early missionary accounts of the 19th Century
referred to them as the Aku. Yoruba, which originally referred to the Oyo, began to
be used for the generality of the group by the Europeans and it has caught on. The
earliest known account of their existence in the region according to archaeological
evidence dates to around 9000 BCE as revealed by human remains at Iwo Eleru.
However, their inability to develop arts of writing early in their history gave rise to
fables and conflicting accounts of their origin. R.C.C. Law traced the first written
account of Yoruba origin to the second Sultan of the Sokoto Caliphate, Sultan
Mohammed Bello. In his writing, Infaq al Maisuri, Bello in his version in 1812
stated that the Yoruba derived from Nimrod, a descendant of the cursed Ham who
fled Mecca while resisting Islam. This account was later appropriated by new Oyo
palace historians who expanded it to identify Nimrod as Lamurudu whom they now
referred to as the father of Oduduwa, the acclaimed progenitor of the Yoruba.
Samuel Johnson on his part adapted this account but replaced the Meccan origin
with Egyptian Coptic Christians.
23
Another myth of the Yoruba origin alleged that Oduduwa descended from heaven
sent by God to create the earth. That Oduduwa’s first point of arrival on earth was
Ile-Ife, hence the notion that Ile-Ife is the centre of the earth. What is however
certain is the fact that the Yoruba are indigenous to Southwest Nigeria. The Itsekiri
are their kins. They constitute a sizeable population of Middle Belt states of Kwara
and Kogi. There are indigenous Yoruba in Edo state. Until the colonial conquest of
Africa, the Yoruba region extended from Benin Republic to parts of Togo. A
sizeable number also settled in Sudan en route to or from Mecca.
In Nigeria, the Yoruba constitute a homogenous socio-linguistic and cultural group.

Their language belongs to the Niger-Congo language family and shares basic
characteristics with the Igbo, Edo, Fulani, Bariba, Efik, Jukun, among other groups.
Ile-Ife developed a centralized state system, complex artistic and craftsmanship
abilities, socio-cultural and religious practices, as well as economic versatility. It
became a cultural and political model for other Yoruba communities which began
to replicate the Ife model in their domains. Ile-Ife became the spiritual motherland
of the Yoruba. However, Oyo soon developed a more complex political and
military system.
24
The Yoruba political system is very complex. The Oba (king) is an absolute ruler
with divine authority, yet his powers are checked by various institutions such as the
council of chiefs (the Oyomesi – hereditary advisers in Oyo in particular and Ilu in
other Yorubalands), the Ogboni society, Ifa divination, and sometimes by mass
rebellion or rejection of his authority or person. Any member of the council of
chiefs could in turn be deposed by the king. Kingship rotates among several royal
houses, hence, the son of a reigning king cannot succeed his father. A paramount
ruler (the king) seldom appeared in public and was not commonly accessible to his
subjects. His subordinate chiefs administered the quarters, villages, the towns and
other domains on his behalf. Yet, each of the chiefs has specific traditional duties
limited to each of them alone. Yoruba settlement had the Oba’s palace in the centre.
Village heads (Baale) are subject to the king through his chiefs, while lineage heads
(baale and mogaji in Ibadan) administer the quarters and the wards but are
subjected to the immediate higher head. Youths and quarter children have their roles
and rights. The rights of women are assured as their leader is an official member of
the council of chiefs.
25
Marriage among the Yoruba was exogenous, hence, it was not a mere event
between two individuals but an event involving two previously unrelated families.
After betrothal, a man must not only give presents to his future wife, but also should
help her father on his farm or when building a house. The would-be in-law also
plays important role in funeral rites. The Yoruba operate patrilineal societies.
Polygamy is a common feature among the Yoruba. Apart from farming, the Yoruba
were also traders and craftsmen. Cooperative efforts used in farming include ‘aaro’
and ‘owe’. The ‘aaro’ form of labour mobilisation was reciprocal in that farmer
who was assisted to weed his farm or build his house today would be called upon
tomorrow to render similar service. While the ‘owe’ was not reciprocal. Drumming
and feasting would normally follow after the execution of an ‘owe’ or an ‘aaro’
task.
26
Eyo
Ogogo kulodo Gelede
Generally speaking, even strangers did have access to land for farming purposes
through Isakole (i.e., land rent) charge.
27
Another notable ethnic group in Nigeria is the Igbo. The Igbo have a unique
culture. There are three versions on the origin of the Igbo. The first version says the
Igbo migrated from the Middle East to their present location. The second version
says they have been in their present location in eastern Nigeria from the beginning.
The third version says they descended from the sky. The language of the Igbo
belongs to the Niger-Congo family. The Igbo people thrived in the Igbo-Ukwu art
culture while they cherished Arochukwu in the spiritual realm.
You need to know that birth, marriage and burial are considered the three most
important family events. Igbo traditional marriage, known as igbankwu is not just an
affair between the future husband and wife, it involves parents, the extended family
and the whole village. The would-be groom parent will bring palm wine and
28
kolanuts to the bride’s family and other items such as goats, chickens etc. as
requested by the family. We wish to state that the wedding ceremony varies from
village to village. Birth is also celebrated among the Igbo but the naming ceremony
is usually performed on the 28th day. Many customs surround the burial rites such as
paying last respect to the dead, singing traditional songs and traditional dances,
acrobatic displays by masquerades, etc.
The village of Igbo-Ukwu is the harbinger of the oldest known sculpture from
Igboland. In that village (Igbo-Ukwu), there was an excavation of the grave of a
man of some importance and wealth dating back to the 9th Century which produced
some of the earliest bronze castings, glass beads, bowls and ornaments. The objects
found at Igbo-Ukwu are also for ritual as well as secular purposes. The objects
found at this site were a large collection of objects and regalia mostly made through
the “lost wax” technique and others made through smiting and casting method. In
terms of style, the artifacts found at Igbo-Ukwu are not similar to the Bini, Ife or
any other Nigerian arts; they are originally local in shape and content. The findings
at this site indicate a very well developed economy with surplus to engage in
artistic production.
29
The Igbo political system is a segmentary system of governance where you have
hierarchy of power from the family to the age group and to special titles. This
power is often distributed among the following title holders: Ozo, Ichie, Mazi,
Ozioko, Nze, Diokpa, Isi, Okpara, Ezeji and a few others.
30
This is another notable culture in Nigeria. There are three versions of the origin of
the Benin kingdom. The first version is from Edo mythology. According to this
mythology, the Benin Kingdom was founded by the youngest of the children of
Osanubua (the high god). This child came with his elder brothers who subsequently
founded Ife and Yoruba Kingdoms. The Second Version talks about the elders of
Benin requested King of Ife (Oduduwa) to send his son as the King of Benin.
Oduduwa complied by sending Oranmiyan. But Oranmiyan did not stay for long.
He impregnated the daughter of the Onogie of Edo. This woman later delivered a
son who was installed as the first Oba of Benin. This Oba was later called Eweka.
He and the people of Benin lived at Usama. The Third Version according to
Igharevba (1968), the Bini migrated from Egypt and in the course of their journey
southward, they settled at Ile-Ife and finally moved to their present location.
31
The leadership of the Bini people was based on

segmentary system where authority is exercised right
from the family. There are three types of families:
1. The Nuclear Family
2. The Joint Family
3. The Extended Family
Each is headed by an elder who sanctions each
member of the family. Similarly, there are societal
elders constituting authority based on the village
system and there are representative title holders who
constitute a councillor court for discharging laws and
justice in the whole kingdom.
32
You may wish to know this important culture in Nigeria. The people of Itsekiri
claimed to have descended from Umale-Okun (the sea god) some of the Itsekiris
claim to have descended from Ode, a Yoruba town in Ijebu Water-side. In a
different dimension, one part of the Itsekiri tradition claimed a relationship with
Iginuwa, a son of one of the chiefs of the Yoruba; it was said that Iginuwa was sent
to the Itsekiri land in company of chiefs and their servants whereby, the chief,
together with the Itsekiri established the present land (Fig. 2.12). On his arrival
Iginuwa met with some Ijaw who took him along with his followers and
consolidated his power as a leader of the new land.
33
The socio-political organisation of the Itsekiri was closely related to the Bini
people. The palace and titles for instance were modelled after that of the Benin
kingdom. But in the Itsekiri’s case, instead of the Oba, the kingdom was ruled
rather by the Olu. He alone presided over a council known as Ojoye which was
made up of seven nobles or title holders. The Olu combined in himself spiritual and
temporal powers.
We now move to the Ijaw culture. The Ijaw ethnic group accounts for a sizeable
percentage of Nigeria’s population. You also need to know that they are located
along the coastal belts of Southern Nigeria from the Forcados to Bonny River, long
and extensive years of interaction with various neighbours have greatly influenced
their traditions thereby leading to differences in the cultural assumptions of
component Ijaw groups. They are mostly identified as Western Delta Ijaw
(Gbaramatu, Mein, Iduwini, Arogbo, Egbema (Bassan), Apoi Ijaw); the Central
Delta Ijaw (Apoi, Furupagha, Olodiama Ijaw); and the Eastern Delta Ijaw (Bonny,
Elem Kalabari, Nembe (Brass), Okrika). Some scholars have come up with
different Ijaw traditions of origin. These scholars include Kenneth Dike (1956),
G.I. Jones (1964) and E.J. Alagoa (1972). Dike ascribed the establishment of Ijaw
politico-religious institutions to the commencement of trans-atlantic trade around
the 15th Century, while G.I. Jones modified this submission by propounding claims
of migration from Eastern Delta pinning it to the period of or before Portuguese
contact with the region (1450-1550). On the contrary, Alagoa, an Ijaw, brought up
‘Mein tradition’ to assert migration from Central Delta to Eastern Delta.
Archaeological studies sponsored by Alagoa to settle this controversy provided a
more concrete information. The results showed that Eastern Delta Ijaw
communities were settled far ahead of the Central Delta region. They belong to the
Niger-Congo linguistic subgroup and they speak Izon. The eastern Ijaw group,
however, speak Kalabari. The western Delta Ijaw also speak Edoid languages
while the Ogbia clan, the Andoni as well as the Obulom speak Cross-River
languages.
34
In Ijaw cosmology, a High God (Tamuno) is acknowledged. An ancestor cult

similar to that of the Igbo also exists. Being riverine people, there is a strong belief
in the water goddess (Owu) that plays certain roles in human affairs. The Ijaw, over
the course of their history are reputed fishermen, canoe builders, salt manufacturers
and above all elaborate and extensive merchants and traders, well known for the
establishment of merchant houses.
35

1. The Yoruba people are located mainly in South-West of Nigeria and they constitute a homogenous socio-
linguistic and cultural group within the Western part of the country. The Yoruba are mostly traders and
craftsmen. Marriage among the Yoruba is exogenous. The government and administration of a Yoruba
town are democratic.
2. The origins of the Igbo people vary from:
 That they migrated from the Middle East to their present location;
 That they have been in their present location in South-Eastern Nigeria from the beginning, and
 That they descended from the sky.
3. The Igbo political structure is a segmentary system of governance where there is hierarchy of power from
the family to the age group and to special title-holders. Others such as the priests, elders, diviners and
medicine men also hold powers.
4. The origin of Benin culture could be traced to three myths:
 The first myth was that the Benin Kingdom was founded by the youngest of the children of Osanubua
(the high god);
 The second myth was that the elders of Benin requested king or Oduduwa of Ife to send his son as the
king of Benin. Oduduwa complied by sending Oranmiyan who impregnated the daughter of the Onogie
of Edo who delivered a son who was installed as the first Oba of Benin.
 The third myth was that the Bini people migrated from Egypt and in the course of their journey
southwards; they settled at Ile-Ife and finally moved to their present location.
5. The leadership of the Bini people is based on segmentary system where authority is exercised right from
the family. The families are headed by elders and there are societal elders constituting the authority as well
as other titleholders.
1. Now that you have adequately read this Study Session and have acquired the knowledge of the origins of
notable ethnic groups in southern Nigeria, differentiate between the origins of the Yoruba and Igbo.
2. Mention each ethnic group and their appropriate system of government
3. Highlight three versions of the origins of the Bini People.
36
Schoolboard
Access your schoolboard app, or visit www.schoolboard.edutechportal.org/ to access updated online activities and
resources related to the units of this Study Session.
37
Study Session 3
In this Study Session, you will explore the cultural zones in Nigeria, going by
linguistic classifications and the geographical locations that define the territorial
composition of Nigeria.
Learning Outcomes
3.1 highlight the linguistic classification of Nigerian People
3.2 mention the geographical location of the prominent ethnic groups in
Nigeria
Cultural Zones in Nigeria
Cultural Areas of Nigeria

and their Characteristics
Linguistic Classification
Nigeria Geographical
Location
39
Study Session 3 Cultural Zones in Nigeria
Terminologies
You may recall that the population of Nigeria stood at about 167 million according
to NPC August, 2012. It is common knowledge that within the country’s
boundaries, there are over 500 ethnic groups, each speaking its own language,
although some may not necessarily speak the language identified with their ethnic
groups. These ethnic groups range in size from tiny units consisting of less than 700
people to groups numbering well above 10 million. The well-known ethnic groups
in Nigeria include Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Fulani, Kanuri, Efik, Ibibio, Tiv, Izon
(Ijaw) Edo, among others. (Ref Fig. 3.1)
Although there are over 500 distinct ethnic groups in Nigeria, the number of
languages spoken does not necessarily correspond to this figure. As such, there is
bound to be more or less than this figure, since one ethnic group might speak
different languages while different ethnic groups might speak one language. This
has led to a lack of precision in identifying the number of languages spoken in
Nigeria. What compounds this problem further is the existence of different varieties
of the same language, otherwise known as dialects. For instance, one language may
have several varieties which at times are not mutually intelligible. Whether such are
regarded as distinct languages or dialects (varieties) of the same language has
always remained a bone of contention among linguists. Although, the index of
40
Nigerian languages 1993 identified 452 languages, the Ethnologies identified 529
languages (2013).
Just as is the case with their number, linguists also disagree on any single
classification scheme for African languages. But it is generally recognized that
Nigeria is one of the principal linguistic crossroads of Africa. J.H. Greenberg in his
classification of African languages distinguishes four major groups, called phyla.
This in linguistics means a large division of possibly related languages, or a major
language family which is not subordinate to another. They are Afro-Asiatic,
Khoisan, Niger-Congo and Nilo-Saharan. In Nigeria, the majority of the languages
belong to the Niger-Congo Phylum, though there are a substantial number of
languages belonging to the Afro-Asiatic phylum especially the Chadic family
(Hausa, Marghi, Pabir-Bura, Bole, Karekare, Tangale, etc.). The Nilo-Saharan has
Kanuri, Dandi, Teda and Zanna. There are no languages from the Khoisan phylum
in Nigeria.
41
Due to linguistic diversities, the Federal Government has encouraged the citizens to
employ English Language as a lingual franca, language of administration,
education, trade and commerce, while attempts is being made to evolve a national
language through its National policy on Education. The National Policy on
Education makes it mandatory that language of immediate environment or
community should be the medium of communication in early childhood education.
The Junior Secondary School students are to be taught and examined in any of the
three major indigenous Nigerian languages – Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba. The Senior
Secondary School students are to offer one other indigenous Nigerian language
other than their mother tongue. Besides the issue of national language, different
states in Nigeria have dominant languages which unite them.
42
You can recall that Nigeria’s major ethnic groups are widely distributed all over the
country. The Hausa are widely distributed, but they constitute majority in the far
north of the country. The Fulani-speaking people are also spread throughout
Northern Nigeria. They are found all over Northern Nigeria. The Kanuri are mainly
found in Borno and Yobe states; the Nupe in the Niger and Benue valleys. The Tiv
are concentrated in the area south of the Benue River.
The Yoruba are found in Southwestern Nigeria as well as parts of Kwara, Kogi, Edo
and Delta States. The Bini are located in Edo and Delta states, while the Ijaw (Izon)
are spread throughout the coastal strips of Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo and Lagos
states.
43
The Igbo are mainly found in Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia States and parts
of Delta and Rivers States. However, as a result of population pressure and pressure
on land, many Igbo people have migrated to various parts of Nigeria. There are
other smaller ethnic groups that are located in various parts of the country. (Fig. 3.6)

1. According to the National Population Commission, August, 2012 the population of Nigeria stood at 167
million people with over 500 ethnic groups.
2. The majority of the Nigerian Languages belong to the Niger-Congo groupings and the remaining languages
are distributed between Afroasiatic and Nilo-Sahara groups.
3. In the Northern part of the country, the Kanuri are found in Borno and Yobe, while the Nupe are found in
Niger and Benue Valleys. The Tivs, on the other hand, are found in the south of Benue River.
4. In the southern part of the country the Ijaw are spread throughout the coastal stripes of Rivers, Delta, Edo,
Bayelsa and Lagos States. The Igbo are mainly found in Southeastern states of Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and
Abia.
44
Based on your study of this Study Session, you have learnt the classifications of Nigerian Languages; you may
recall that language classifications are put into four distinct groupings. Mention all the languages in each
classification you read.
From the geographical location you studied in this Study Session, what are the locations of the notable ethnic
groups in Southern Nigeria?
Schoolboard
45
Study Session 4
In the previous study session, we examined the cultural areas, linguistic

classifications and geographical location in Nigeria. In this Study Session, we shall
be extending the analysis to capture the delineation of Nigeria into various zones, as
shown below.
Learning Outcomes
4.1 locate all the cultural zones in Nigeria
4.2 outline at least three cultures found in each zones in Nigeria
4.3 highlight the similarities and differences that exist among notable
cultures in Nigeria
Cultural Zones in
Nigeria II
Nothern Zone
Central Zone
Western Zone
Eastern Zone
47
Study Session 4 Cultural Zones in Nigeria II
Terminologies
You are aware that Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa. Continuous
human habitation of the area dates back to pre-historic times. Some artifacts found
in Nok in Plateau State date back 39,000 B.C. and many Late Stone Age (15,000 —
5, 000 BC.) artifacts have been found in the Mejiro Cave (Oyo State), Daima
(Borno State) and Rop rock shelters (Plateau State) among others. All these
indicate long human habitation of the area. While detailed ethnic, linguistic and
cultural composition of the area is difficult to explain, it is obvious that by 1500
AD most of the groups have occupied their approximately current locations. In
part, due to the common features shared by most groups, this discussion would
highlight the history and political structure of these groups before the 19th Century.
For convenience and clarity, Nigeria would be sub-divided into four zones:
Northern, Central, Western and Eastern.
Compared to the Central Zone, this part of Nigeria is less culturally diverse.
Besides, there are the Kanuri and the Hausa which constitute the notable cultural
groups of the zone. Also it is a fact that Hausa is the largest cultural group in
Nigeria. Historically, Daura was the original home of the Hausa people. For
instance, it is related that the seven original Hausa states of Daura, Kano, Zaria,
(Zazzau) Kakaina, Rano, Biram and Gobir were founded by the children of a
certain Bawo, son of a certain migrant prince of Baghdad, variously called Abu
Yazid or Abu Yazidu or Bayajjida. It is on record that Daura was the mother of
Cannanite named Najb. So the Bayajida myth represents the mirror of a historical
period in which the formation of states began in Hausa land. Today the Hausa
people of Nigeria are mostly concentrated in Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi
and Zamfara States.
48
The Hausa people are widely spread over a large area of the central Sudan, due
mainly to religious, political and economic activities. Their language is also
widespread. It is recorded that not only Hausa language is classified under the
Chadic sub-group of AfroAsiatic or Hamito-Semitic family, but it is also spoken
over a very wide area by so many nationalities. The Hausa language is a lingua-
franca of the entire northern of Nigeria. Surprisingly, it is recorded that seventy-
five percent of Hausa speakers are non-Hausa, the language is spoken in the whole
Sudan Savanna area. Hausa people, as noted earlier, are the chief representatives of
the people of this Zones and that is why reference is constantly made to them in
most of the examples in this section. The social and political organization of the
Hausa people is found on strict status differentiation. We have the Sarakuna
(Chiefs in Hausa language) and Masu Sarauta. The former are at the top of the
hierarchy, while the Masu Sarauta are holders of offices. Those who hold
hereditary offices constitute the sub-class of Masu Sarauta Na Asali while those
who hold office of allegiance form the Masu Sarauta Na Cafka, and they constitute
the middle class. There is the third class called Talakawa, which is made up of
farmers and peasants, petty civil servants, craftsmen, traders etc. Similarly, it is on
record that every Hausa migrant community has the equivalence of a central figure
or ruler in Hausaland called Sarkin Hausawa, just as we have among the
professional guilds, e.g. Sarkin Makera of the blacksmith, Sarkin Makada of the
drummers, the Imam etc.
49
Farming, industry and commerce constitute the three major components of Hausa
economy. The main agricultural crops found in this zone are: maize, millet, guinea
corn and beans among many others. Their agriculture has always been at the
forefront of the Nigerian economy. People in this zone, especially the Hausa, are
known for their craft products such as: leather, blacksmithing, sculpture, perfumes
and several textile wares. They are also famous for commerce and they are one of
Africa’s famous merchants. Hausa women enjoy enormous economic freedom more
than any other women in Nigeria. They are free to run their private businesses and
enjoy absolute control over their income. Historically, Hausa cultures provide that a
wife is justified to claim a fee for labour rendered to her husband in the process of
economic production. It is also on record that some women are far richer than their
husbands.
Beside the Hausa, the Fulani are one of the notable ethnic groups in this zone.
While they call themselves “Fulbe”, and refer to the language they speak as
“Fulfulde”, the Wolof call them “Peul” and the Bambara address them as “Fula”.
(Fig. 4.4)
50
The Kanuri are mainly found in Borno and Yobe States. Like the Fulani, they also
practise Islam as their religion and have distinctive cultural practices of their own.
51
The Central Zone covers the whole area conventionally described as the Nigerian
Middle Belt or sometimes referred to as Kasashen Bauchi. It covers much more
than fifty percent of the Niger territory extending from the Idoma, Ebira and Igala
axis in the south to as far north as the community collectively known as the
southern Zaria and from the Cameroonian border in the east to the border of
Republic of Benin in the west. This is the home of majority of Nigeria’s cultural
and ethnic groups. Five states are found in this zone, which are Benin, Kwara,
Kogi, Northern Plateau and Taraba. These states account for fifty percent of the
culture of Nigeria. The general characteristic of this zone is the small population
size they have. The only groups with considerable population are Tiv, Gwari and
Nupe. (Fig. 4.6)
The rest are smaller in size, because of this it becomes very difficult to make a
distinctive classification. Examples of such are Jukun, Mumuye, Tere, Kaka, Koro,
Anaguta, Zaranda, Vomni, Mbula, Chuomu, Lan, Njirai, Vemgo, Wula, Higgi,
Gade, Rubu, Amo, Kurama, Burom, Kakanda, Tarok. Most of the people in these
areas claim their origins from Hausa or Jukun ancestors. The main economic
preoccupation of the people in this zone is farming. Southern most reaches of the
zone especially from the lower Benue valley to the Niger-Benue confluence form
part of the West Africa Yam belt. This is the home of Nupe, Koto and the Tiv.
Elsewhere in the zone, the primary crops are guinea corn, maize, and millets among
others. They also cultivate cassava but not in commercial quantity. In this zone land
belongs to everyone in the community or the lineages and not to individuals.
Nigeria’s two major rivers – the Niger and Benue and their several tributaries – flow
through this zone and provide professionalism in fishing and farming.
Religious belief in this zone is quite different from those in the Western and
Eastern Zones. Nevertheless as it is in the two zones, there is a general belief in the
existence of the Supreme God as well. But the Supreme Being is differently called
according to the numerous ethnic groups found in this zone. For instance, among
the Kurama he is called “Ashili” or “Bakashili”, Among Tiv, he is known as
“Aondo”, while the Rukuba call him “Katakuru”. The Gwari call him “Shekoki”,
52
“Shesha”, “Esse”, “Sheko” or “Soko”. The Nupe call him “Soko”. Among the
Jukun, he is referred to as “Chido” or “Shido”, etc. The people of this zone also
believe in other forces such as ancestral spirits. The Igala, Jukun and Tiv are well
known for their strong beliefs in witchcraft, magic and sorcery. It is also worth
noting that the zone is the most representative of religious balance in Nigeria, in
that Islam and Christianity as well as other religions cohabit excellently. It is also
recorded that members of the same family can belong to different faiths and still
co-habit as brothers and sisters in the same household.
Politically, the zone is also different from the rain forest people who are known for
empires and monarchies. Historically, before the rise of the northern emirates,
ushered in by the 19th Century Jihad, and the advent of the warrant chief system
brought by colonialism, the people in this zone were never used to culture of
centralized governments. Only few ethnic groups such as Igala, Nupe and Jukun
had developed elaborate monarchical structures. In antiquity this zone is known for
its petty chiefdoms or village lineage–based democracies.
This zone is the principal habitat of Nigeria’s ethnic groups referred to as the
Mennonites. These include the Yoruba, the Ndoki, Oduel, Urhobo, Bini, Itsekiri
and Isoko among others, Urhobo and Isoko in this zone are the only two belonging
to the Kwa family. The major occupation in this Zone is fishing and cultivation of
root crops. The main dress among these groups is the wrapper usually worn with a
jumper or broad shirt for men and blouse for women. Political organization in this
zone is based on village groups or clans with each developing distinct dialect. The
basic political unit in this zone is the village especially when it is fairly large in a
confederation and the whole of the culture group is something of merely a cultural
unit. The basic political units in the Yoruba culture are in the town. A town is made
53
up of lineage organised in order of seniority determined by the order of settlement.

Each lineage has a hereditary title assumed by its leader. In most cases political
heads of the town is called Baale or Oba. For the purpose of administration, the
town is divided into wards under the leadership of ward chiefs called (Ijoye,
Adugbo or Olori Itun). Wards are further subdivided into administrative units, i.e.
Compounds (Agboile) headed by the eldest man (Baale). There is no distinction
between judicial and legislative power but a hierarchy of power from Baale, Ijoye
and the highest Oba.
Cultures of this zone are also remarkable for their sophisticated artistic traditions
and skills such as the science of metallurgy, iron smelting and bronze-smelting in
such communities as Ife, Oyo etc. The people of this zone are as religious as
elsewhere in the nation. There is a general belief in the existence of the Supreme
God who is called different names e.g. Olodumare or Olorun among the Yoruba,
Osanobua among the Bini, Osenobua among the Esan, Oghena among the Etsakoa,
etc.
Supreme God is believed in this zone to have created the world with no direct
involvement in the affairs of men, but have unlimited power as well as benevolence
and punitive measure.
54
This zone consists of many ethnic groups such as the Igbo, Ijaw, Ibibio and Efik.
These groups mostly had democratic systems of government and several kingdoms
such as Nir Akwa Akpa (Calabar), Aro confederacy and Opobo which were huge
influences in the zone. Equally is the village domocracies among the Igbo and other
communities of the East. At the level of the village in Igbo land, public
administration is under the control of the village assembly which comprises every
able-bodied male adults. At the core is what is called the inner council (Ama Ala)
which consists of lineage heads, title holders, and other elders on the basis of their
personal qualities. Cultures of this zone are also remarkable for their sophisticated
artistic traditions and skills such as the science of metallurgy, iron smelting and
bronze-smelting in such communities as Nkwere, Awka, Abiriba, etc. The people
of this zone are as religious as elsewhere in the nation.

1. The Northern Zone is the driest part of Nigeria where we have Hausa, Kanuri and Fulani and are
55
predominantly farmers. The major cultural activities include livestock rearing, farming and trading.
2. The Central Zone covers the area referred to as Middle Belt and it is the centre for many cultures. Farming,
especially yam cultivation and fishing, are the main economic activities of the people of this zone.
3. The Western zone belongs to the Kwa family of languages and their major occupation is fishing and
cultivation of root crops.
4. The Eastern zone consists of the Edo, Igbo, Esim and Etsakoa group of cultures. They have good artistic
traditions and skills of iron crafts and they believe in Supreme God.
Check the map below and indicate the following: Northern Zone, Central Zone, Western Zone and Eastern Zone.
Having read through the cultural zones and their cultures enumerate three cultures from each of the cultural
Zones.
From what you studied in this Study Session, what are the similarities and differences between northern and
central zones?
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Schoolboard
57
Study Session 5 The Evolution of Nigeria
Study Session 5
This Study Session is designed to acquaint you with issues and the various
developments that gave birth to an entity called Nigeria. Our analysis shall cover
areas such as the evolution of Nigeria, amalgamation and reasons for amalgamation
and various constitutional developments that culminated into the present Nigeria.
Learning Outcomes
5.1 identify at least three of the independent states before the independence
5.2 enumerate some of the amalgamation processes before 1914 in Nigeria
5.3 trace the negative impacts of indirect rule on our chiefs and emirs
5.4 outline some of the reasons for the amalgamation of the Northern and
Southern protectorate in 1914
5.5 trace the four different notable Constitutional Development experiences
in Nigeria
The Evolution of The Evolution of

Nigeria Nigeria
Amalgamation
Reasons for
Amalgamation
Colonial Rule
Constitutional
Development
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The polity called Nigeria as we know it today was before colonial rule made up of
several independent states variously referred to as kingdoms, empires, chiefdoms,
etc. Each state was independent of the other but there were numerous layers of
relationships among them. The politically strong ones just before the onset of
colonial rule were the Sokoto Caliphate, Borno, the Hausa states and Nupe in the
north and Oyo and Benin in the south. This is in addition to several small kingdoms
and numerous states without clearly defined political leadership beyond the family
or clan referred to as politically non-centralized states. These states were at the
onset of British colonial rule gradually amalgamated and administered as one
colonial entity known as the colony and protectorate of Nigeria. It was this colonial
creation that became independent in 1960 as the Republic of Nigeria.
The territories that later became Nigeria comprised different states with sovereign
status. Relations between these states were international relations before the
colonial onslaught. Considering the constellation of state systems within the area —
the Sokoto Caliphate to the north and the northwest, Borno to the northeast, the Oyo
and Benin empires to the southwest, and the numerous non-centralized communities
of the forest belt to the southeast, the possibility of the emergence of a state system
similar to the present Nigeria without an external intervention is indeed very
remote. However some scholars such as Billy Dudley have argued that the inter-
group relationships such as those of trade, conquests, political association, myths of
common origin, etc. could still have provided the basis for a state like Nigeria.
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The name “Nigeria” was first used by Flora Shaw, who was to become the wife of
Frederick Lugard, in an article to the London Times of 1899 to refer to the
territories around the River Niger in Northern Nigeria. The name was originally
applied to the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria before it later came to be applied to
the whole country.
British interest in Northern Nigeria predated the nineteenth century, however, by the
beginning of the nineteenth century as early as 1879 the British government allowed
British trading companies access to these territories for commercial activities. By
1826 British merchant ships had traded on the Bonny River, and by 1886 up to 1900
the British allowed the United Africa Company (UAC), which later became the
chartered Royal Niger Company power to administer the Northern Nigeria
territories on its behalf. This meant that the company was the government of
Northern Nigeria at this period. By 1900 the British government took over
administration of the territory from the Royal Niger Company and appointed
Frederick (later Lord Lugard) as High Commissioner. It was Lugard who
proclaimed the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria. What became Nigeria was an
amalgam of various colonial possessions which were acquired over different times
and later amalgamated gradually even though the general reference to amalgamation
is the one of 1914 which brought the two giant territories of the Northern and
Southern protectorates together. In 1900 the Niger Coast protectorate was
amalgamated with the Colony of Lagos to form the Protectorate of Southern
Nigeria. This is different from the Colony of Lagos which had a different status.
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Then in 1906 there was the second series of amalgamation when the Colony of
Lagos was merged with the Protectorate of Southern Nigeria to form a single entity
known as the Colony and Protectorate of Southern Nigeria. Finally, there was the
amalgamation of 1914, which brought the Protectorate of Northern Nigeria and the
Colony and Protectorate of Southern Nigeria into one single entity known as the
Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria on 1st January 1914.


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The British amalgamated Nigeria for the same reasons that made them to colonize it
in the first place. That is, to serve their imperial interests. The main reasons for the
amalgamation are: First, they wanted a cheap and secure source of raw materials for
their industries. Second, they wanted a market for their manufactured goods. Third,
they needed a source for generating capital resources for investment in Britain
thereby strengthening the British pound sterling against other currencies. Fourth,
they needed a manpower reserve for military and other purposes. Fifth, they wanted
the ports, water ways, roads, railways, and air spaces for transportation and imperial
communication systems. All these would be easier and more efficient only if
Nigeria was amalgamated.
In the previous discussion, the interest of colonial rule was stated bearing in mind
the invasion and occupation of Nigeria. The major task before the British was to
find the most cost effective way to rule their newly acquired territory, a territory
composed of different cultural and religious groups with different systems of
governance and administration. The British, based on Lord Lugard’s
recommendations, decided to interfere as little as possible in the day to day
administration of the peoples they ruled. It was decided that interference should be
limited to what was necessary to the basic needs of colonial administration and
economic exploitation of the country or to eliminate what they perceived as
repugnant to British conception of justice and morality.
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To this end, a system of British rule through local traditional rulers known as
Indirect Rule was instituted. These rulers would be responsible for carrying out
colonial policies and tax collection under the supervision of British colonial
officers. This system created the illusion of Africans ruling themselves and
significantly reduced the cost of administration. It also created a wedge between the
traditional rulers who became beneficiaries of the colonial system and patriots
resisting colonial domination. In Northern Nigeria, Indirect rule, in part, insulated
Islam from the Christian influences which might have led to resistance to
colonialism. The northern part of Nigeria, with its large states and developed
emirates system was the most fertile ground for the indirect rule system of
administration. The system was a success in the northern region. However, in the
western and eastern regions it was not so successful. In Benin and Yorubaland the
British re-enacted the former empires in 1916 and an unpopular attempt to bring
back the Oyo Empire was also attempted. The Oba now appointed and backed by
the British were expected to serve them. Many of them became autocratic because
the mechanism for removing despotic ones was no longer effective. This did not
eliminate resistance as four officials of the Oyo Native Authority were killed at
Iseyin in 1916. Similarly, in 1918 a rebellion broke out after the Abeokuta Native
Authority introduced direct taxation.
In Igboland, for example, there were no chiefs; the British had to create a class of
chiefs referred to as warrant chiefs, to collect taxes and enforce colonial policies.
The policy of indirect rule was premised on local peoples being ruled by their local
traditional rulers without disruption to their lives. However the warrant chiefs had
no prior legitimacy in the places they ruled and were invariably corrupt and
unscrupulous; therefore they were deeply resented. In most of the southern
provinces indirect rule was a problem because of the absence of traditional rulers
and centralized governments. This did not stop the British from introducing them
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anyway. Throughout Nigeria when traditional rulers or British appointed rulers

served as intermediaries between the government and the people, the result was
always misrule and corruption by local officials and eventually anti-colonial
resistance. The 1929 Aba Riots arose because of tax abuse and other forms of bad
governance.
In spite of the claim of mutual benefits to both the British and local traditional rulers
as well as the claim of minimum disruption of people’s lives and livelihood, British
interference was widespread and very negative. Some of the visibly negative
impacts included the following:
1. Most emirs and chiefs who resisted British rule in any form were deposed and
new pliant ones installed. Therefore, only those who collaborated with the
colonial regime were maintained.
2. The British reduced the status of both the Caliph at Sokoto and the Shehu of
Borno to that of emirs. The Caliph was renamed Sultan.
3. The judicial system was changed to reduce the potency of the Islamic legal
system (shari’ah). Shari’ah courts became subordinate to customary and
common law courts.
You may know that the colonial government set out how they can rule Nigeria
through defined rules and regulations. A constitution is a document which clearly
defines how a state should be governed. It contains statements that depict the
relationship between the rulers and the ruled and the basic rights and duties of
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citizens in a country. A constitution, therefore, is a body of rules and regulations

that set out how a state should be governed. It defines the structure, powers,
functions of the government and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
Constitutionalism is a basic principle that states that the government should rule the
people according to the constitution of the land. The essence is to make sure that the
activities and operations of the government are within the confines of the law.
Constitutionalism promotes respect for the operations of the rule of law. The
historical development of constitutions and constitutionalism in Nigeria can be
traced to the establishment of colonial rule in the 1860s. However, constitutional
government in the formal sense began with the institution of the Nigerian Council
by Lord Lugard after the amalgamation of the Southern and Northern Protectorates
in 1914. The evolution of the Nigerian Council marked the beginning of
constitutional development in Nigeria. The council was however dissolved in 1922
following the adoption of the Clifford Constitution. Between 1922 and 1954, four
different notable constitutions were operated in Nigeria. These are the Clifford
Constitution (1922), the Richard Constitution (1946), the Macpherson Constitution
(1951) and the Lyttletton Constitution (1954).
The Richard Constitution gave birth to the idea of regionalism, which enabled the
different regions: East, West and North to develop at their own pace. The 1951
constitution introduced a quasi-federal model into the administration of the regions.
This allowed for power to be shared between the central and the regional
governments but the central government was empowered to have control over the
regional governments in some matters. The Lyttleton constitution of 1954
rearranged the whole system and introduced a federal system of government. The
constitution marked the beginning of the operation of federal system in Nigeria. In
1957 and 1958 constitutional conferences were held for the purpose of resolving
some issues such as the minority problem and charting the way forward for the
granting of self- government in 1960. Between 1960 and 1979, three constitutions
were put in place in the country. These are the 1960 Independence, the 1963
Republican and the 1979 Presidential constitutions. The amended 1999 constitutions
is an improvement of the 1979 constitution.
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1. The territory that later became Nigeria comprised different empires, Kingdoms, Chieftains and emirates.
2. The amalgamation of Nigeria brought about two giant territories of Northern and Southern Protectorates
together in 1914.
3. The reason for the amalgamation of Nigeria was to serve the interest of the imperial government especially in
the areas of cheap raw materials and market for their manufactured goods.
4. The British colonial master’s rule through the traditional rule is called indirect rule. The responsibility of the
traditional rulers was to carry out colonial policies and tax collection under the supervision of the British
officers.
5. The process of constitutional development passed through recommendations of the following colonial leaders:
 Clifford Constitution 1922
 Richard Constitution 1946
 Macpherson Constitution 1951
 Lyttleton Constitution 1954.
1. The polity called Nigeria before colonial rule was made up of several independent states. Identify at
least three of these independent states.
2. In these session, you have studied series of amalgamation process in Nigeria before 1914. Enumerate
some of these processes.
3. In this session, you have studied some of the reasons for the British amalgamation of Nigeria. Identify
and mention some of these reasons.
4. In this Study Session you learnt the historical developments of constitutions and constitutionalism in
Nigeria. Trace the four notable constitutional developments in Nigeria.
5. In this Study Session you have studied how the British colony introduced indirect rule in Nigeria to
administer and supervise its newly acquired territory. Trace the negative impact of indirect rule on emirs
and chiefs.
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Schoolboard
67
Study Session 6 The Economy and National Development
Study Session 6
Earlier in the previous sessions, you have studied some notable cultures and peoples
of Nigeria. You need to know about the economy of the Nigerian people as they
strive for their ends meet. It is on this basis that this Study Session shall be
discussing with you the Nigerian economy and its strive toward national
development.
Learning Outcomes
6.1 discuss the Nigerian economic system before and after independence
6.2 evaluate the economic activity in Nigeria
6.3 trace the problems of Nigerian Economy
The Economy and National

Development Nigerian Economic System:
Pre and Post
Independence
The Structure of Economic

Activities in Nigeria
Major Problems of the

Nigerian Economy
68
Terminologies
Nigeria is an economically powerful nation. Here is a country made up of land

covering 98.321 million hectares of which about 74.036 million hectares are arable.
Nigeria was also one of the leading countries in agriculture, thanks to the good
quality of its soil, good heat and adequate moisture. But what still remains of
immense importance to the Nigerian economy is the large size of her population.
The Nigerian population is noted to have been increasing astronomically. Between
1952 and 1991, the Nigerian population increased from 31.1 million to 88.5 million.
Currently, population estimates put Nigeria’s figure at 167 million (2012). In 1990
the World Bank ranked Nigeria the seventh most populous country in the world,
after China, India, USA, Indonesia, Brazil and Japan. Before independence,
agriculture accounted for over fifty percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of
Nigeria. Again, about three quarters of the Nigerian population were engaged fully
either in agriculture or agriculture-related activities. Cedar, iroko and walnut are
very much found in the mangrove and rain forest while within the Savannah, cocoa,
rubber, palm produce, kola nut and gum-Arabic flourish. Crops such as yam,
cassava, maize and citrus are generated. It is also easier in the Nigeria’s grassland to
raise cattle and obtain other dairy products. This is also true with the cultivation of
grains such as guinea corn, millet, rice, cotton, groundnuts, beans and other
leguminous crops. (Fig. 6.1).
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Though most Nigerians engage in agriculture or agriculture- related activities,

economists say there are at least eighteen activity sectors of the Nigerian economy.
These include agriculture, livestock, forestry, fishing, crude petroleum, mining and
quarrying, manufacturing, utilities, building and construction, transport,
communication, wholesale and retail trade, hotels and restaurants, finance and
insurance, real estate and business service, housing, producers of government
services, and community, social and personal services. As already mentioned,
agricultural activities are spread all over the federation. In 1960 agriculture
absorbed over 75 percent of the work force while industry and other sectors
together employed the rest. Therefore in contributing to the Nigerian GDP (Fig.
6.2), agriculture was the leading sector. With respect to that, Nigeria enjoyed the
modest tag of a middle-income country. However, from 1980 to the present, GNP
per capita dropped. This situation, coupled with the deteriorating social services,
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continuous high rates of inflation, declining productivity and high rates of

unemployment, have made the average Nigerian poor by all standards.
Besides agriculture, there are some very important mineral deposits as well. These
deposits are scattered in almost all parts the country. In the West, for instance, we
have the alluvial gold deposits, while there is tin in the North. The East is the centre
of coal. Edo/Delta, Rivers, Imo/Abia and Cross River/Akwa-Ibom States share the
lion’s part of petroleum products. Iron, brass and bronze are found in Lokoja.
Although scattered, limestone, kaolin, diatomite and clay are found in abundance in
Nigeria. A nation is said to be selfreliant when her citizens depend largely on her
human and material resources for most of their basic needs. In other words, self-
reliance as a national development strategy usually refers to a nation’s
determination to rely on the utilization of domestic resources to produce most of her
required goods and services. As far as Nigeria is concerned, it is very difficult, if not
impossible, to claim that she is economically self-reliant. Here is a country where
the economic underdevelopment is so obvious. Almost all the economic indicators
are on the negative side: low capacity utilization in industries, primitive and
abandoned agriculture, debt problems, inflation, balance of payments crisis,
unemployment and underemployment, malnutrition and misdirection of resources.
Also, the over-dependence on oil and other imported inputs are serious problems in
the Nigerian economy. This simply shows that Nigeria for now is not economically
self-reliant.
On the contrary, a nation is said to be economically self-reliant when there are:
heavy reliance on domestic resources for the production of required goods and
services; reduced dependence on outsiders for the supply of required goods and
services; active use of international trade policy instrument for controlling imports
and domestic prices that are relatively higher than they would otherwise have been
in the absence of development strategies of self-reliance. However, you should
always remember that achieving self-reliance is a perpetual task. Self-reliance is a
process that needs to be sustained. That is why even when a country is called self-
reliant it is always very necessary to identify and examine likely factors which
enhance a country’s economic self-reliance capabilities on a consistent basis.
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Nigeria is a country of paradox: Nigeria is regarded as a poor country despite the

abundance of human and natural resources. This is obvious when we look at the
standard of living index as mentioned earlier. The economic situation of Nigeria
today is negatively different from that of the past. In the year 1970, for instance,
Nigeria was self-sufficient in food production and the economy was somehow
balanced. But the relegation of agriculture to the second rank to the benefit of the
so-called oil boom has put Nigerian economy in a very precarious situation. The
consequence is that almost all the non-oil sectors of the economy have become
stagnant. Worst still, revenues accruing from crude oil sales are mismanaged. This
situation has led to some serious problems facing the Nigerian economy today.
These problems are:
1. Slow growth of the industrial sector with capacity utilization averaging about
3%
2. High and growing rate of unemployment
3. Slow growth of the agricultural sector
4. High internal and external debt burden
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There is no doubt that, over the years many attempts have been made to address the
problems of the Nigerian economy, On agriculture, many policies have been put in
place. The most important of these policies are:
Operation Feed the Nation (OFN) under the military regime of General Olusegun
Obasanjo (rtd) and the Green Revolution programme under the civilian
administration of Alhaji Shehu Shagari.
Also, many successive administrations have put in place fiscal and monetary
policies to address Nigeria’s economic problems. In respect of fiscal policy, various
administrations have set the following objectives:
1. Reduction of the level of price inflation;
2. Provision of the necessary protection for local industries;
3. Provision of a suitable price incentive framework in favour of increased
agricultural and industrial production;
4. Expansion of agriculture and industry;
5. Encouragement of local production of import- substituting goods by
encouraging local industries with heavy local content;
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6. Encouragement of dispersal of industrial location;

7. Discouragement of importation of consumer goods which are available locally
in order to curtail the out flow of foreign exchange;
8. Enhancement of government revenue
9. Moderation of the rate of price inflation,
10. Stimulation of industrial and agricultural production
11. High level of employment
12. Improvement of balance of payment positions,
13. Reduction of foreign indebtedness, and
14. Generation of more revenue, especially from the non-oil sector of the economy.
We should also remember that to achieve fiscal and monetary objectives mentioned
above, governments also put some measures in place such as:
1. Reduction of government expenditure with the intention of reducing offensive
demand, and subsequently checking inflationary pressures;
2. Continuous reorganization and reformation of customs and excise tariff;
3. Encouragement of investment in agriculture through the abolition of duties on
machinery for exclusive use in agriculture and subsidizing inputs employed in
the sector;
4. Setting credit ceiling for banks and encouraging sectoral distribution of credit;
5. Regulation of the liquidity ratio and cash ratio of commercial banks;
6. Introduction of compulsory advance deposits scheme to restrict imports.
In 1986, the Babangida administration decided to modify and extend the previous
fiscal and monetary objectives and measures. Consequently, the Structural
Adjustment Programme (SAP) was introduced. It was mainly aimed at:
1. Restructuring and diversifying the productive base of the economy with a view
to reducing dependence on the oil sector and imports;
2. Achieving fiscal balance and ensuring balance of payments viability;
3. Laying the basis for sustainable and non-inflationary growth
4. Intensifying private sector growth potential.
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1. Before independence agriculture accounted for more than 50% of the country’s GDP but after independence
agricultural activities decline.
2. The economic activities largely include some of the following:
 Agriculture
 Livestock
 Fishing
 Crude oil and Mining.
3. Nigerian economy is not self-reliant because of the following problems:
 Domestic agricultural system
 Debt problems
 Unemployment and underdevelopment
 Malnutrition and misdirection of resources and over dependent on oil.
The consequences of problems of Nigerian economy lie on the fact that almost all the non-oil sectors of the
economy have become stagnant.
Having studied this Study Session on Nigerian economy pre- and post - independence, how viable was the system
before and after independence?
In this section you read about economic activities in Nigeria. What are these activities?
Based on what you studied on Nigerian economy, what are the problems confronting it? Q
Schoolboard
75
Study Session 7 Citizenship Education
Study Session 7
In this Study Session, our discussion will involves holistic analysis of what the word
‘citizenship ‘means. Who is a citizen? What are the roles and duties of a citizen?
What are the ways or means through which the citizenship status of a place, an
organization and a country can be acquired? These and many more formed the bases
of our discussions here.
Learning Outcomes
7.1 define and use correctly all of the key words printed in bold
7.2 list the rights and obligations of a Nigerian Citizen
7.3 outline the patterns of acquiring the Nigerian Citizenship
7.4 outline the negative attitudes of Nigerian youth
Citizenship Education
Rights, Duties and

Obligation of a Citizen
Patterns of Citizenship
Acquisition
Negative Attitude of
Nigerian Youth
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Terminologies
Citizens enjoy certain rights referred to as Fundamental Human Rights. A right is a

privilege. When a privilege is contained in the constitution of a country, it is known
as a civil right. Therefore, citizens’ rights are those privileges enjoyed by citizens
which are expressed within the legal framework and protected by the state. The
fundamental human rights which citizens must enjoy are: right to life, right to
posses’ property, freedom of religion, freedom of assembly and association,
freedom of movement, freedom of expression and rights to liberty and security.
Duties are those responsibilities a citizen performs in the state and to other citizens.
These are obedience to the laws of the land; payment of taxes expected by the tax
law of the country; non-interference with the rights of other citizens; defence of the
country when called upon to do so; be honest and loyal to the government.
Obligation is the performance of civil and political rights which directly or
indirectly contributes to the success of the government. These include: exercising
voting rights; contributing to the smooth running of the lawful government;
resisting the reign or the ruling of an unpopular government by constitutional
means, and every citizen owes it as an obligation to obey the government, provided
that the government is legitimate and productive.
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Citizenship can be acquired through the following ways:

Citizenship by Birth: When one is born into a country of which both parents are
members, automatically one becomes a member of that country.
Citizenship by Registration: A person can become a citizen of another country by
registration by going through the guidelines stipulated by the law of the land. For
example, in Nigeria any woman who is married to a Nigerian, those born outside
Nigeria but whose grandparents are Nigerians and any person born outside Nigeria
but whose parents are Nigerians can apply for citizenship through registration. This,
however, is predicated on government’s approval of such an application.
Citizenship by Naturalization: One can become a citizen of another country through
naturalization. Before this can happen, there are certain conditions that one must
have fulfilled in that country before applying to naturalize.
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Honorary Citizenship: The government of a country can honour distinguished

eminent personalities with the rights of citizenship.
Many Nigerian youths have ruined their lives by taking to excessive partying,
obscenity, armed robbery, sexual immorality, participating in secret cults and other
social vices inimical to the well-being of the society. Bribery and corruption are the
two deadly unwholesome practices that have disturbed the conscience of many
Nigerian patriots. Bribery and corruption take place in the process of obtaining a
legitimate official service or right. Many Nigerians have been made to offer bribe
along the line because a deliberate obstacle has been placed on the path of rendering
normal service or right without delay. Indeed, both the demand for a bribe and the
offer of a bribe are regarded as corrupt practices. As Oladumi (1991:67) rightly
observes, “it is the joint responsibility of all citizens to fight these evil elements”.
Bribery and corruption are workers and students’ enemies. In order to overcome the
negative attitudes of Nigerians, several governments have come up with different
programmes: President Shehu Shagari’s policy of Ethical Revolution, General
Buhari’s War Against Indiscipline and General Babangida’s National Orientation
Agency.
We must therefore fight corruption and bribery from all fronts. We must refuse to
give or demand bribe. The Federal Government is currently fighting corruption
through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent and
Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and other similar
agencies of government.
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We must join hands with EFCC to fight corruption and bribery. It is important to
realize that the main causes of bribery and corruption include:
1. Government official bureaucracy
2. Undue influence
3. Unnecessary delay
4. False style of living
5. Artificial scarcity.
Some Nigerians are members of secret cults. General Yakubu Gowon, one time
Nigeria’s Head of State, on one occasion remarked that cultism in our tertiary
institutions is a threat to peace and national security (Gowon, 1998). There are
many cases of cultism in Nigerian higher institutions. We should be aware that
cultism, is an evil association engaged in negative activities that can destroy one’s
career and can also ruin one’s life. Not only that, cultism can be a stumbling block
to Nigeria’s quest for peace and prosperity. Besides, the idea of a secret cult is
falsehood and avant garde.
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Another area that calls for our attention is our mode of dressing. There is no doubt
that there is a moral bankruptcy in Nigeria as a result of cultural imperialism
manifesting in wearing dresses that do not belong to Nigerian culture. Today, many
Nigerians have abandoned their traditional ways of dressing. Instead, they have
adopted western style of dressing. Many Nigerians want to dress like the
Americans, i.e. in jeans patched up all over. Some even dress as if they are naked.
In general, they pretend to be ‘westernized’. It is this negative dressing that entices
some fraudulent youngsters to develop the taste for illicit sex and other forms of
immorality. The dress code which is currently being enforced in our educational
institutions should be supported. All religions, especially Islam and Christianity,
encourage decent dressing. It is even considered a sin before God for one to expose
any part of one’s body that is considered sacred. We need to know the dangers
inherent in western cultural imperialism which threatens the existence of Nigeria’s
national culture and counter such.
Sexual laxity is also harmful to the moral well-being of any nation. Besides, the
people who are engaged in illegitimate and reckless sexual acts stand the risk of
contracting all kinds of sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Syphilis,
etc. In addition to this, nobody wants to marry a harlot.
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Political thuggery and gangsterism are becoming a fashion in Nigerian politics. The
Nigerian politicians recruit, train and arm our teeming youth and then use them as
thugs in their political campaigns. In the 2003 Federal elections, for instance, thugs
were used to intimidate political opponents, in the process of which many lives were
lost. But those who survived are now turning around to intimidate their former
masters, i.e. those they assisted during the 2003 elections. Thugs who have been
trained in the art of using modern weapons are now using the weapons at their
disposal negatively. To put it in another way, they have become armed robbers on
highways and villages, towns and cities.
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In another vein, examination misconduct has become endemic in our nation’s

institutions. Many students have perfected ways of cheating in examinations. Some
students now use modern technology like the GSM handsets, calculators, etc. to
cheat in examinations. This makes governments at all levels to come out with
various laws and penalties to curb examination misconducts. Students should know
that cheating in examinations may be a disgrace to parents, friends, relations and
even the person who is involved in the acts.
There are various penalties which the Nigerian universities have spelt out for
examination offenders. The penalties depend on the nature of the examination
offence committed. Some of these penalties are:
1. Expulsion from the University
2. Repeating a session
3. Repeating two academic sessions
4. Warning
5. Carrying over the paper in which the candidate cheated.

1. The major negative attitudes of Nigerian youth are cultism, indecent dressing, political thuggery and
examination misconduct.
2. The pattern of citizenship acquisition includes the following: Citizenship by birth, registration, naturalization,
and honorary citizenship.
3. The moral obligations of a citizen are diverse. Some of these obligations include: the duty of political
participation, economic productivity, paying of tax, and other sundry duties.
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1. You have studied what constitute citizenship in Nigeria in this Study Session, trace the rights and obligations
of a Nigerian citizen.
2. In this Study Session you have learned the rights and obligations of a citizen and the ways of acquiring
citizenship in Nigeria. State ways of acquiring citizenship in Nigeria.
3. Enumerate the negatives attitudes of a Nigerian Youth.
Schoolboard
84
Study Session 8
The environment is an important element in the preservation of life on earth. Man’s

activities are centred on exploiting it for survival. The expanding manner in which
man is exploiting its environment has brought about environmental problems which
form the central theme of our discussion in this Study Session. We shall be
examining how these problems manifest in various ways and equally impact
adversely on the development of man and his environment with greater emphasis
on the Nigerian communities.
Learning Outcomes
8.1 identify the major components of the natural environments
8.2 enumerate the causes of environmental problems
8.3 point out the possible solutions to environmental problems
Nigerian Environmental
Problems
Major Components of the
Natural Environment
Causes of Environmental
Problem
Solutions to Environmental
Problem
85
Study Session 8 Nigerian Environmental Problems
Terminologies
Environment is human beings’ immediate surrounding including fauna and flora.

The environment is made up of two major components, namely, the natural and
social environment. (Refer to Fig. 8.1)
The major components of the natural environment are: the atmosphere, the
hydrosphere, the lithosphere and the biosphere. The atmosphere is the medium
above the surface of the earth extending for about 170 kilometres consisting mainly
of a mixture of gases. The hydrosphere is the water medium of the surface of the
earth, oceans, seas, lakes and rivers; the lithosphere is the hard, rigid upper crust of
the earth extending for about 80 kilometres. It is the inner core of the earth, the
atmosphere, being less rigid in form. And the biosphere is the zone of the earth’s
planet that contains living organisms. The social environment or man-made
environment is the system which man has instituted in order to organize himself to
satisfy his needs. The social environment consists of the physical and social
structures, systems or institutions created by man to meet his needs, which includes
86
food, education, clothing, shelter, health, companies, etc. The idea is that the social
environment influences the natural environment. The exploitative venture of man in
the social environment over time is what has resulted in environmental problems.
Environmental problems are due to man’s exploitation of the environment. Due
partly to increase in population and the level of advancement in technology, the
environment has been heavily abused giving rise to various types of problems in the
environment, which now constitutes a problem to man.
There are various forms of environmental problems that human activities have
caused. Some of these include:
87
1. Pollution: Pollution is the end result of the unfavourable exploitation of the

environment by man. The types of pollution that can result due to man’s undue
manipulation of the environment are: air pollution, noise pollution, water
pollution, and land pollution.
2. Poor Drainage System: The improper planning of towns and cities, has led to
the emergence of poor drainage system. These drainages often cause serious
environmental problem.
3. Deforestation: This is the act of cutting down or burning trees in the
environment. This may be due to overgrazing, unsustainable farming methods
or cutting firewood for local usage.
4. Improper Waste Disposal: Improper disposal of waste has become a serious
environmental problem. This is the result of rising level of population of the
country.
5. Ecological Problems: Ecological problems arising from excessive rainfall
which culminate in flooding and erosion thereby causing havoc in the
environment.



The following are some of the factors responsible for environmental problems.
1. Population Explosion: The geometric increase in population around the world
is a major cause of environmental problems. This increase has given rise to
undue pressure on the environment.
2. Advancement in Technology: This is equally one of the factors that have
contributed to environmental problems in great measure. The growth and the
consequent wastes emitted in the course of technological exploration are
danger to the environment and human beings.
3. Poverty Breeds Environmental Problems: It prevents the provision of quality
and adequate social amenities which are required for the improvement of life.
Poverty promotes underdevelopment and this easily attracts environmental
problems.
88
4. Unplanned Urbanization: This has to do with improper planning of the

environment. Unplanned urbanization leads to environmental abuses, which in
a large scale deface the environment causing environmental problems.
5. Government Negligence: When government fails to live up to expectation in
the discharge of its responsibilities, it reflects in the environment. For example,
when environmental agencies refuse to execute their responsibilities, the
consequences are environmental problems.


These environmental problems can be solved in the following ways:

1. Promotion of environmental education and awareness: The Nigerian
Government is making concerted efforts to create awareness on environmental
89
abuse, challenges and management. When awareness is created on how to

utilize the environment, the orientation of people will change concerning
conservation and proper utilization of the environment.
2. Siting of Waste bins/dumps: Waste dumps are usually in the form of
incineration or simple dump sites. The provision of these facilities at the right
places will help to check the abuse of the environment. However, dump sites or
bins should be regularly cleared to make the site functional, effective and clean.
3. Provision and Implementation of Legal Policy Framework: Government should
promulgate laws or policies that will help to curb abuses of the environment
and make sure those violators of such policies are severely punished to
encourage proper use of the environment.
4. The recycling of materials, improving mining methods, devising more efficient
engines that consume less fuel, and recovering minor minerals during
processing or mining will go a long way in protecting the environment.




1. The various forms of environmental problems that are induced by human activities are pollution, poor
drainage system, deforestation and waste disposal.
2. The following are some of the factors that are responsible for environmental problems:
 Population explosion,
 Advancement in technology
 Poverty
 Unplanned urbanization, and
 Government negligence
 Ecological problems
3. Environmental problems could be solved in the following ways:
 Promotion of environment education and awareness.
 Building of waste and dump sites in strategic places.
90
 Provision and implementation of legal policy framework on environment.
Based on your study of this Study Session,

1. Identify the major components of natural environment.
2. Enumerate possible causes of environmental problems.
3. You must have learned about the causes of environmental problems in your environment, outline the possible
solutions to these problems.
Schoolboard
91
Feedback to SAQ Items

SAQ 1.1
The Hausa claimed to have descended from Bayajida (Abu Yazid) a reputable
prince from Baghdad; the Fulani are believed to have originated from Futa Jalon
from where they migrated to various places in West African sub-region.
You may recall that the Yoruba originated from Oduduwa, while the Igbo
originated from either the Middle East, Eastern Nigeria or descended from the sky.
SAQ 1.2
The Saif bn Dhi Yazan are the two versions of the Kanuri origin. As for the Nupe
they have many sources of origins among which are-Idah, Egyptian and Igala
versions.
The head of government in Kanuri culture is called Mai, while in Nupe the head of
government is called Etsu Nupe.
SAQ 2.1
1. Yoruba – Democracy
2. Igbo - Segmentary
3. Isekiri - Segmentary
4. Benin - Segmentary
SAQ 2.2
The three versions of the origin of the Benin Kingdom are:
1. Benin Kingdom was founded by the youngest child of Osunubua.
2. Benin requested king Oduduwa of Ife to send his son. The Oduduwa complied
by sending Oranmiyan.
3. The Benin migrated from Egypt and settled in their present place.
SAQ 3.1
The following are the languages in each group:
1. Phyla-Chadic family which include Hausa, Margi, Babur Bura, Bole, Karekare,
Tangale etc.
2. Nilo-Saharan- in this group, we have Kanuri, Dandi,Teda and Zarma
3. Niger Congo family-includes Igbo, Yoruba, Mande, Gur, Rwe, Fulbe
SAQ 3.2
The Yoruba are found in southwestern Nigeria, mainly in Ekiti, Kwara, Lagos,
Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo States. The Bini are located in Edo and Delta states, while
93
Feedback to SAQ Items Nigerian Environmental Problems
the Ijaw (Izon) are spread throughout the coastal strips of Rivers, Bayelsa , Delta,
Edo and Lagos States. The Igbo are mainly found in Imo, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi
and Abia States.
SAQ 4.2
Northern Zone - Blacksmithing, Sculpture, Leather Work
Central Zone - Fishing, Witchcraft, Magic/Sorcery and Farming
Western Zone - Iron smelting, Bronze work and manufacturing of glass beads.
Eastern Zone - Science metallurgy, Iron smelting and bronze melting
SAQ 4.3
1. The similarities in Western Zone and Eastern Zone are in Iron smelting and
Bronze work and they differ in that the former engages in glass work and the
latter engages in Science Metallurgy.
2. The Northern and Central Zones are similar in their way of farming. Their
differences are that the former engages in leather work while the latter engages
in blacksmithing and Sculpture.
SAQ 5.1
Your possible answers may be the following:
1. Kingdoms
2. Chieftains
3. Empires
SAQ 5.2
You might have reflected on some of the following as your possible answers:
1. The amalgamation of Niger coast with the colony of Lagos to form Southern
Protectorate of Nigeria in 1900.
2. The amalgamation of the colony of Lagos with the protectorate of Southern
Nigeria to form a single entity known as the colony and protectorate of
Southern Nigeria in 1906.
3. The amalgamation of Northern and Southern protectorates to produce Nigeria.
SAQ 5.3
Your possible answers may include some of the following:
1. They wanted a cheap and secure source of raw materials for their industries.
2. They wanted a market for their manufactured goods.
3. They wanted a source for generating capital resources for investment.
4. They needed manpower.
94
5. They wanted the ports, water-ways, roads, railways and airspace for
transportation and communication.
SAQ 5.4
Your answers to this question may be centred on the following:
1. Clifford Constitution 1922
2. Richard Constitution 1946
3. Marcpherson Constitution 1951
4. Lyttleton Constitution 1954
SAQ 6.1
Having studied this unit on Nigerian economy pre- and post - Independence, how
viable is the system before and after independence?
SAQ 6.2
In this section you read about economic activities in Nigeria. What are these
activities?
SAQ 6.3
Based on what you studied on Nigerian economy, what are the problems
confronting it?
SAQ 7.1
Your answer may certainly reflect the following:
1. Right to life ii. Right to freedom of religion, assembly and movement
2. Right to possess property
3. Exercising voting rights
4. Contribution to the smooth running of the lawful govt. etc.
SAQ 7.2
Your answers may definitely be as follows:
1. Citizenship by Birth ii. Citizenship by Registration
2. Citizenship by Nationalization
3. Honorary Citizenship
SAQ 7.3
Your possible answers to this question may be centred on the following:
95
Feedback to SAQ Items Nigerian Environmental Problems
1. Cultism
2. Political thuggery
3. Examination misconduct
SAQ 8.1
The following may be your possible answers:
1. the atmosphere
2. the hydrosphere
3. the lithosphere
4. the biosphere
SAQ 8.2
Your answers may include the following factors:
1. Population explosion
2. Advancement in technology
3. Poverty, unplanned urbanization
4. Government negligence.
SAQ 8.3
Your possible answers may include the following:
1. Promotion of environmental education and awareness;
2. Siting of waste bins and dump sites;
3. Provision and implementation of legal policy framework on environment;
4. Recycling of materials and improving mining methods.
96
References
Abubakar, S. (1980), “Peoples of the Upper Benue Basin and Bauchi Plateau before 1800”, in O.
Ikime (ed) Groundwork of Nigerian History, Ibadan: Heinemann
Adamu, M. (1979), The Hausa Factor in the West African History, Zaria: ABU Press.
Nzemeke, A. D. & Erhagbe, E. 0. (eds) (1997). Nigerian Peoples and Culture, Benin:
Mindex Publishing Company. Olademi, O.(1989). A Good Works: The Nation Builder, Lagos:
Citizens Bureau
Uwaoma, N. (2001). Citizenship Education in Modern Nigeria, Enugu: Barlo publishers.
Akinjogbin, I. A. and E. A. Ayandele (1980), Yoruba up to 1800, Ibadan: Heinemann Educational
Books
Alagoa,E.J.& Adadonye, F.A (1964), Chronicle of Grand Bonny. Ibadan: Ibadan University Press.
Falola,T. & Heaton, M.M. (2008). A History of Nigeria. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Ikime, O. (1980), “The People and Kingdoms of the Delta Province”, in Ikime (ed), Groundwork of
Nigerian History, Ibadan: Heinemann Educational Books
Nzemeke, A. D. & Erhagbe, E. 0. (eds) (1997). Nigerian Peoples and Culture, Benin: Mindex
Publishing Company.
Onwueje O. M. A. (2002), African Civilization: Origin, Growth and Development, Lagos: Uto
Publications.
Abubakar, S. (1980), “Peoples of the Upper Benue Basin and Bauchi Plateau before 1800”, in O.
Ikime (ed) Groundwork of Nigerian History, Ibadan: Heinemann
Adamu, M. (1979), The Hausa Factor in the West African History, Zaria: ABU Press.
Hodjkin T. (1975), Nigerian Perspective, London: Oxford University Press.
Lewis, M. P., Gary, F. S. and Fennins, C. D. eds (2013) Ethnologue: Languages of the World 17th
Ed, Dallas: Summer Institute of Linguistics Online Version
Ejharevba, J. U. (1968), A Short History of Benin and Ibadan, Ibadan: University Press.
Ityavyar, D. A. (1992), The Changing Socio-Economic Role of Tiv Women, Jos: Jos University Press.
Obafemi, A. (1980), States and Peoples of the Niger-Benue Confluence Area,
Ibadan: Heinmann Publications
Olademi, O (1989). A Good Works: The Nation Builder, Lagos: Citizens Bureau Onwuejeogwu, M.
A. (1972), “An Outline Account of the Dawn of Igbo Civilization in the Igbo Cultural
Area”, a Journal of Odinani, vol. 1, No. 1, pp. 15-56
Otite, O. (1990), Ethnic Pluration and Ethnicity in Nigeria, Ibadan: Shaneson.
Bukar, S. (1989) Culture, Economy and National Development, Lagos.
Hodjkin T. (1975), Nigerian Perspective, London: Oxford University Press.
Nkwam, S. (2001), Culture and Resource Management, Lagos: Freeman
97
References Nigerian Environmental Problems
Oga, S.A. ed. (2003) Geographies of Citizenship in Nigeria, Zaria: Tamaza publishers. Ukije, E
(1973), Culture in the Nigerian Economy, Lagos
Aboyade, 0. (1969). “The Economy of Nigeria.” In P. Robson and D.A Lury, eds. The
Economies of Africa London: George Allen and Unwin.
Anyanwu, J.C. “Self Reliance and Political Stability: Implications for Action”. Paper presented at the
seminar on Education for Political Socialization held at the College of Education,
Nsugbe, Anambra State, April 22, 1978.
Bello, S. et al (1991) Cultural Economy and national development, Lagos
Ekpo, H. Akpan. ‘Economic Reforms and the National Question’. In the National Question and
Economic Development in Nigeria:
Proceedings of the NES Annual Conference, Ibadan, 1993.
Anyanwu, J.C. “Self Reliance and Political Stability: Implications for Action”. Paper presented at the
seminar on Education for Political Socialization held at the College of Education,
Nsugbe, Anambra State, April 22, 1978.
Bukar, A.A (2006). Citizenship Education; Issues, Trends and Practices, Owerri: Barlos
Publishers.
Bukar, S. (1989) Culture, Economy and National Development, Lagos.
Oga, S.A. (ed) (2003) Geographies of citizenship in Nigeria, Zaria: Tamaza publishing Ltd.
Suggested Readings for UNIT 8
Uwaoma, N (2001). Citizenship Education in Modern Nigeria. Enugu: Barlos Publisher.
Uwaoma, N (2001). Citizenship Education in Modern Nigeria. Enugu: Barlos publisher.
EIR (1992). The Environmental Information Regulations 1992 Approved by both Houses of
Parliament. http://www.england-
legislation.hmso.gov.uk/si/si1992/Uksi_19923240_en_1.htm
Ekpeyong, E. (n.d.) Environmental Awareness As A Panacea For Sustainable environmental
management in Africa.
http://www.iaia.org/iaia09ghana/documents/cs/CS5_Ekpenyong_Enviro
nmental_Awareness_as_a_Panacea.pdf
FEPA (Federal Environmental Protection Agency). 1989. “National Policy on the Environment”
Ikporukpo, B. C. O. (1988). Managing oil pollution in Nigeria. In P. 0. Sada & F O. Odemerho
(Eds.), Environmental issues and management in Nigerian development (pp. 224-229).
Ibadan, Nigeria: Evans Brothers Ltd.
McCarthy, M. & Brennan, M. (2009) Food risk communication: Some of the problems and issues
faced by communicators on the Island of Ireland (IOI) Food Policy (34), 549–556)
Nwilo P.C. & O. T. Badejo (2001): Impacts of Oil spills along the Nigerian coast The Association
for Environmental Health and Sciences,
98

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2 Contents

Nigerian People and Culture

Modibbo Adama University of Technology

Course Development Team

3.2 Linguistic Classifications .................................................................................................................................................... 41

Feedback to SAQ Items 93

About this Course Manual

How this Course Manual is

We strongly recommend that you read the overview carefully before

The course content

 Course content and structure.

 Course reading materials and resources.

Nigerian People and

 trace the History of Nigeria

Schedule dates for submitting assignments and engaging in course activities is

Figure 4.2: Four Hausa

Notable Ethnic Group Introduction to an

The Hausa Culture

The Fulani Culture

The Kanuri Culture

The Nupe Culture

We start by introducing Nigeria to you. Nigeria is situated between latitudes 400E

The socio-political organization of the Kanem-Borno people was based on kingship.

In this study session, you learnt that:

Notable Ethnic Groups

The Igbo Culture

The Bini Culture

The Itsekiri Culture

The Ijaw Culture

In Nigeria, the Yoruba constitute a homogenous socio-linguistic and cultural group.

Ogogo kulodo Gelede

The leadership of the Bini people was based on

In Ijaw cosmology, a High God (Tamuno) is acknowledged. An ancestor cult

In this study session, you learnt that:

Cultural Zones in Nigeria

Cultural Areas of Nigeria

In this study session, you learnt that:

In the previous study session, we examined the cultural areas, linguistic

up of lineage organised in order of seniority determined by the order of settlement.

In this study session, you learnt that:

The Evolution of The Evolution of

anyway. Throughout Nigeria when traditional rulers or British appointed rulers

citizens in a country. A constitution, therefore, is a body of rules and regulations

In this study session, you learnt that:

The Economy and National

The Structure of Economic

Major Problems of the

Nigeria is an economically powerful nation. Here is a country made up of land

Though most Nigerians engage in agriculture or agriculture- related activities,

continuous high rates of inflation, declining productivity and high rates of

Nigeria is a country of paradox: Nigeria is regarded as a poor country despite the

6. Encouragement of dispersal of industrial location;

In this study session, you learnt that:

Rights, Duties and

Citizens enjoy certain rights referred to as Fundamental Human Rights. A right is a

Citizenship can be acquired through the following ways:

Honorary Citizenship: The government of a country can honour distinguished

In another vein, examination misconduct has become endemic in our nation’s

In this study session, you learnt that: