JAMB UTME - History - 2024

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The constitution that laid the foundation for federalism in Nigeria is the Lyttleton Constitution of 1954. This constitution was significant because it introduced a formal federal structure in the country. Prior to this, Nigeria operated under a unitary system where powers and authority were centralized.

The Lyttleton Constitution achieved several things:

• It clearly divided powers and responsibilities between the central government and regional governments. For the first time, regions were given the autonomy to manage their own affairs to a certain extent.
• This decentralization created a structure where the regions could legislate on specific matters independently of the central government, fostering diversity and regional governance.
• It included provisions for a central government that exercised authority over matters of national interest while regions retained control over regional issues.

Overall, the Lyttleton Constitution was a clear departure from the centralized systems of governance that preceded it and laid an essential groundwork for the development of a federal system in Nigeria.

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The Ekumeku Movement in the Asaba hinterland primarily aimed to resist British taxation and land policies. When the British colonial administration began imposing new taxes and altering land ownership systems, the local communities felt their traditional governance and way of life were under threat. The movement was a form of organized resistance against these coercive measures, which many indigenous people saw as unfair and exploitative. The Ekumeku fighters employed guerrilla tactics, using the dense forests to their advantage, in an effort to preserve their land rights and maintain economic autonomy. Essentially, this movement was a defense of their sovereignty and cultural identity against colonial incursion.

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The establishment of Native Authorities had a significant effect on the empowerment of traditional rulers within the colonial administration. During the colonial era, European powers sought ways to administer their colonies efficiently and with minimal resistance. One approach they adopted was the system of indirect rule, where local traditional rulers were incorporated into the colonial governance structure. This meant that these rulers were given roles and responsibilities within the colonial administration, hence they were empowered in several ways.

Firstly, traditional rulers were entrusted with enforcing colonial laws and collecting taxes on behalf of the colonial government. This increased their influence and authority within their communities.

Secondly, they played an intermediary role by acting as a link between the colonial authorities and the local people, thus gaining some level of political significance.

Lastly, while the empowerment of traditional rulers helped the colonial administration maintain control, it also meant that these rulers were sometimes restricted in their actions and had to balance their traditional roles with their new administrative duties.

In summary, the establishment of Native Authorities led to the **empowerment** of traditional rulers within the colonial framework, enabling them to play substantial roles in governance under the indirect rule system.

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The military campaigns of the Kingdom of Benin often targeted the **Yoruba** people. The Kingdom of Benin, which is located in what is now southern Nigeria, engaged in these campaigns during its period of expansion. The Yoruba people, living to the west of Benin, became a significant focus due to their proximity, wealth, and valuable resources. The Benin Kingdom sought to expand its influence and control over trade routes and territories, leading to these campaigns against the Yoruba.

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The British amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914 was primarily motivated by economic considerations, particularly the need to make the Northern Protectorate financially viable. At that time, the Northern Protectorate of Nigeria was running at a financial deficit, as it was significantly less economically vibrant compared to the Southern Protectorate, which enjoyed a booming trade, particularly in palm oil and other natural resources.

By merging the two regions, the British colonial administration sought to use the surpluses from the economically prosperous south to offset the costs of administering the north. This fusion was not driven by the aim of promoting cultural unity or responding to nationalist influences, as cultural and political unity were not priorities for the British. Moreover, the League of Nations did not play any role in this decision, as it had not yet been established (it was formed in 1920).

Thus, the primary reason for the amalgamation was to increase administrative efficiency and reduce the financial burden on the British government by creating a more economically self-sustaining colony. This move allowed for a centralized administration, which in turn facilitated the easier extraction of resources and management of the colony.

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The Mahdiyya Movement in Sudan was primarily a response to **Egyptian and Ottoman control**.

This movement emerged in the late 19th century as a reaction against the political domination and social strain imposed by the Egyptian rulers who were under the influence and authority of the Ottoman Empire. The local Sudanese population experienced heavy taxation and social injustice under this regime, and there was a sense of nationalistic and religious fervor to liberate Sudan from foreign rule.

The leader of this movement, Muhammad Ahmad, proclaimed himself the Mahdi, or the "Guided One," believed to be an Islamic messianic figure. His declaration and guidance were rooted in the belief that he would restore justice, reform Islam, and remove foreign imperialism and corrupt local practices.

Thus, the Mahdiyya Movement was fundamentally driven by **the desire to overthrow the existing control of Egypt and the Ottoman Empire**, intending to establish a self-governed state based on Islamic principles and Sudanese national identity.

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The correct answer is Increased support for anti-apartheid policies. The Sharpeville Massacre of 1960, where 69 people were killed by police during a peaceful protest, led to increased international condemnation of apartheid policies.

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The introduction of the 1946 Richards Constitution in Nigeria was significant because it marked the first significant step towards self-government and regional representation.

Before the Richards Constitution, Nigeria was governed centrally and did not have much involvement from Nigerians in the legislative process. This constitution was an attempt by the British colonial authorities to allow for more African participation and was a response to growing nationalist pressures. It divided Nigeria into three regions: the North, West, and East, allowing for regional governments and a Central Legislative Council. This structure laid the foundation for federalism which later shaped Nigeria's political framework.

Although it did not give equal representation for all ethnic groups or lead to complete independence (which came in 1960), the Richards Constitution was critical as it introduced the idea of regional governance, emphasized representation, and began the process of involving Nigerians in their governance.

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The Aba Women's War of 1929, also known as the "Aba Women's Riots," was a significant event in Nigeria's colonial history where women mobilized to protest against the colonial policies imposed by the British. The leader associated with this resistance was Ikonna Nwanyi. She was one of the female leaders who played a crucial role in organizing and guiding the women during this protest.

This uprising was primarily triggered by the colonial administration's attempt to impose direct taxation on the women of southeastern Nigeria and the oppression they suffered under the colonial government. The women were particularly displeased about the plans to tax them and the disrespect shown by warrant chiefs, who were native officials selected by the British.

The women used the protest as an opportunity to articulate their grievances against the colonial system, demanding an end to unfair taxation, better representation, and the removal of corrupt chiefs. Although many women were involved in the riots, Ikonna Nwanyi's leadership symbolized the collective strength and resilience of Nigerian women confronting colonial powers. The Aba Women's War stands as an important demonstration of early resistance to colonial rule in Nigeria.

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The concept of "The White Man's Burden" was popularized by the British writer Rudyard Kipling. This phrase comes from his poem titled "The White Man's Burden," published in 1899.

In this poem, Kipling urged the United States to take up the role of imperial powers, similar to European countries, by colonizing and governing other nations to bring them civilization and progress. Kipling presented the idea as a moral obligation or 'burden' of the white man to govern less developed nations for their own benefit. Essentially, it was an attempt to justify European imperialism during that era.

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is an organization that aims to promote economic integration and cooperation among its member countries. One of its significant goals is to facilitate easy interactions among its member states. The protocol responsible for allowing the free movement of persons, goods, and services within the member states is known as the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence, and Establishment.

This protocol was designed to ensure that citizens of ECOWAS states can travel freely, trade, and reside within other member states without facing numerous immigration restrictions. In simpler terms, it's similar to having an open door policy among friends, where goods and people can move freely without much hassle.

Implemented in phases, this protocol allows for visa-free entry for citizens of member states into other member countries for up to 90 days. Furthermore, it supports the right of residence and the right to establish businesses, ensuring that individuals and businesses from member states can operate more smoothly across borders.

Thus, the Protocol on Free Movement essentially aims to promote open borders within the region, encouraging economic growth, cultural exchange, and stronger ties among the countries of the ECOWAS community.

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Following the death of Murtala Mohammed in 1976, General Olusegun Obasanjo assumed leadership of Nigeria. Under his administration, the major policy direction was focused on preparing the country for a transition to civilian rule and democratic elections. This was a significant period in Nigeria's history, as it marked a transition from military to civilian governance.

Obasanjo, respecting Murtala Mohammed's vision and plans, committed to returning the country to civilian rule. His administration worked towards creating a new constitution, which was a critical step in ensuring political stability and setting the framework for a democratic government. This transition culminated in the 1979 general elections, which led to the handover of power to a civilian government under President Shehu Shagari.

The policy of transitioning to civilian rule involved several key components:

• Drafting a New Constitution: A constituent assembly was formed to draft a new constitution that would facilitate the return to democratic governance.
• Political Party Formation: The administration encouraged the formation of political parties, leading to a multiparty system that was essential for democratic elections.
• Election Preparation: Systems were put in place to ensure fair and free elections, ensuring that the electorate's voice was heard and respected during the transition process.

Obasanjo's priority on a civilian transition distinguished his administration from other possible paths, such as strengthening military alliances, increasing military spending, or focusing aggressively on land reforms. The transition set the stage for the establishment of the Second Republic in Nigeria and was instrumental in shaping the nation's political landscape.

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The desire to unify currency systems was a major economic factor behind the 1914 amalgamation of Nigeria. The British colonial administration aimed to streamline economic policies and governance by unifying the currency systems in the region.

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The rise of the Kanem-Borno Empire in the 9th century was primarily due to the control of trans-Saharan trade routes. The location of the Kanem-Borno Empire was strategic as it was situated in a region that connected the North African trade networks with Sub-Saharan Africa. This allowed the empire to become a critical hub for traders passing through these routes. Through controlling these trade routes, the Kanem-Borno Empire was able to collect taxes and tariffs, accumulating wealth that was crucial for its growth and stability.

The trans-Saharan trade routes facilitated the exchange of valuable goods such as salt, gold, and slaves. These goods were in high demand, making the trade routes highly valuable. By dominating these routes, the Kanem-Borno Empire could ensure they benefited economically, which contributed significantly to their power and influence in the region.

The wealth generated from this trade was used to strengthen and expand the empire's infrastructure, military, and influence. This, in turn, allowed for the sustained growth of the empire and enabled it to engage in further diplomatic relations and sometimes conquests, contributing to its overall prominence and durability throughout history.

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The concept of indirect rule refers to a system of governance used by the British during their colonial rule, whereby they utilized existing traditional power structures and local leaders to administer colonial territories. Indirect rule was particularly successful in Northern Nigeria.

Northern Nigeria had a well-established system of governance through the Emirate system, which the British found to be efficient for administration. The Emirs, who were traditional rulers, had significant influence and respect among their people. The British colonial administration leveraged these existing hierarchies to implement their rule, thereby maintaining peace and order, as well as reducing administrative costs.

The success in the north contrasted with other regions like Eastern Nigeria, where centralized traditional authority structures were less defined. In the east, the people were organized into smaller, segmented societies without a dominant central figure equivalent to the northern emirs, which made the implementation of indirect rule more challenging.

Similarly, in Southern Nigeria and the Niger Delta region, the complexity and diversity of ethnic groups and socio-political organizations made indirect rule less effective. The British faced difficulties in finding equivalent local leaders to work with as they did in the north.

Therefore, the significant presence of an organized and influential traditional governance system explains why indirect rule was most successful in Northern Nigeria.

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In the early period, the **primary economic activity** that drew Europeans to Nigeria was the **transatlantic slave trade**. This trade began in the 15th century and continued into the 19th century. Europeans were heavily involved in the capture, buying, and selling of enslaved Africans, primarily for labor in the Americas.

The **slave trade** was immensely profitable for European traders, as African slaves were exchanged for goods like guns, textiles, and manufactured products. These goods were then sold for high prices in Europe and the Americas. The coastal regions of Nigeria became key locations for the exchange of slaves due to their ability to access the interior where the enslaved individuals were captured.

While **agricultural exports** and other industries did play a role in Nigeria’s interaction with Europeans, it was not until the abolition of the slave trade in the 19th century that these activities became more prominent. After slavery was banned, Europeans shifted their focus to agricultural products like palm oil, cocoa, and groundnuts, which were highly valuable as raw materials for industries back in Europe.

In summary, although **textile manufacturing** and **agricultural exports** were important economic activities, it was the **transatlantic slave trade** that initially attracted European interest and economic involvement in Nigeria.

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The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 was a dramatic 13-day confrontation during which the world came perilously close to nuclear war. It was a standoff between the United States and the Soviet Union. This crisis stemmed from the discovery of Soviet nuclear missiles in Cuba, which was only 90 miles from the U.S. coast.

To understand the importance of this event, it's crucial to note the global context at the time. The world was in the middle of the Cold War, a period of intense rivalry and tension between the United States and the Soviet Union, who were the two superpowers leading massive military blocs. During this era, both nations amassed large stockpiles of nuclear weapons, and their ideological conflict had significant global implications.

The crisis began when the United States, under President John F. Kennedy's leadership, identified that the Soviet Union had secretly installed nuclear missiles in Cuba. These missiles had the capacity to strike major U.S. cities, posing a direct threat to national security.

After a tense period of negotiation, President Kennedy and Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev reached an agreement. The Soviet Union agreed to remove its missiles from Cuba in exchange for the U.S. promising not to invade Cuba and later removing U.S. missiles from Turkey.

The resolution of the Cuban Missile Crisis is seen as a pivotal moment in history because it prevented the escalation into a full-scale nuclear war. This event highlighted the need for clear communication and established direct communication lines between the two superpowers, leading to future arms control agreements.

In summary, the Cuban Missile Crisis was a critical standoff between the United States and the Soviet Union, and its resolution helped avert a potential nuclear catastrophe.

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The apartheid policy of "separate development" was also known as **Homelands** or **Bantustans**.

This policy was part of South Africa's apartheid system, a racial segregation system institutionalized in 1948. The concept was to create **self-governing territories** referred to as **Bantustans** or **Homelands**. The primary aim was to give an illusion of independence to divide the country into various **ethnically distinct areas** for different African ethnic groups. The government justified this policy by claiming it allowed for the development of self-determination among the black South African population. However, in reality, these areas were often economically disadvantaged and lacked genuine autonomy.

It's important to understand that this was a measure to enforce racial separation and reinforce the idea of white supremacy by keeping majority black South Africans outside of meaningful political, economic, and urban life within South Africa.

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The impact of the Mfecane on trade in Southern Africa was the disruption of existing trade routes and the establishment of new ones. The conflicts during the Mfecane led to the reorganization of trade networks in the region.

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The creation of the Mid-Western Region in **1963** was primarily a response to address the **demands of the minority groups in the Niger Delta**. At that time, Nigeria was divided into three major regions: the Northern, Eastern, and Western Regions. Each of these regions was dominated by a major ethnic group, which often led to the **marginalization of smaller ethnic groups** or minorities within these regions.

The creation of a separate region was meant to acknowledge these minority groups in the Western Region, like the Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Isoko peoples, who felt their interests were not being adequately represented. By forming the Mid-Western Region, the government aimed to provide opportunities for these groups to have **greater political representation and control over their resources**. This move was seen as a step towards promoting **unity** and reducing ethnic tensions by recognizing the diversity within the Nigerian state.

In summary, the Mid-Western Region was created largely in response to the **demand for political autonomy** and **representation** by the minority groups in the Niger Delta, addressing their concerns of marginalization within the Western Region.

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During the reign of Oba Ewedo in Benin, a significant development in the political structure was the establishment of a centralized monarchy. This development meant that the power and authority in Benin became more centralized under the leadership of the Oba. Prior to this, the political organization might have been more fragmented or less unified, but under Oba Ewedo's reign, the political structure was reformed to concentrate power effectively within the monarchy.

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The Christian missionary credited with the translation of the Bible into Yoruba is Samuel Ajayi Crowther. Ajayi Crowther was a prominent figure in the spread of Christianity in West Africa during the 19th century. Born in 1809 in what is now Nigeria, he was captured by slave traders but eventually liberated by the British. He became a dedicated Christian, went on to study theology, and became the first African Anglican Bishop.

His significant achievement was the translation of the Bible into Yoruba, which greatly facilitated the spread of Christianity among the Yoruba-speaking population. His work not only made religious texts accessible to more people but also had a lasting impact on education and literacy in Nigeria. The translation process involved a deep understanding of both the source language and the culture of the target audience, ensuring that the messages were conveyed accurately and meaningfully.

Therefore, Samuel Ajayi Crowther's contributions were crucial in the development of the Yoruba language and the propagation of Christianity in the region.

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The Yoruba state that rose to prominence following the decline of Oyo was Ibadan.

To understand how this happened, let's look at a brief historical context:

1. Oyo's Decline: The Oyo Empire was a powerful Yoruba empire located in present-day Nigeria. However, by the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Oyo experienced a decline due to internal strife, conflicts, and external pressures from Fulani jihads. This decline led to the weakening of its central authority.

2. Rise of Ibadan: As Oyo's power waned, there was a vacuum of power in the region. Ibadan, originally established as a war camp in 1829, took advantage of this power vacuum. Comprising various groups of warriors, including disbanded soldiers from Oyo and refugees from other regions, Ibadan's strategic location and military ability enabled it to grow rapidly.

3. Trade and Military Power: Ibadan became a significant military force, using its strength to expand control over surrounding territories. The town also became a commercial hub due to its involvement in regional trade. By mid-19th century, Ibadan was one of the largest and most influential Yoruba cities.

In summary, the decline of Oyo created an opportunity for Ibadan to rise as a dominant force in the region, leveraging its military prowess and strategic trade position to achieve prominence.

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In the 19th century, Christian missionary activities in Liberia were primarily dominated by the Methodist denomination. This was largely because the Methodist Episcopal Church was actively involved in the early beginnings of Liberia, especially since the country was established as a settlement for freed African-American slaves from the United States.

The Methodists contributed significantly to the religious and educational landscape of Liberia. They established schools and churches, playing a crucial role in the socio-cultural development of the nation during its formative years. Their influence was profound, as they were among the first to introduce formal education and Christian teachings to the Liberian people.

Thus, considering their substantial early involvement and lasting impact, the Methodist Church stands out as the principal denomination involved in missionary work in Liberia during the 19th century.

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The Battle of Blood River, which took place on December 16, 1838, was fought between the Boers, who were Dutch-speaking settlers in South Africa, and the Zulus, a powerful indigenous group in the region. The Boers, led by Andries Pretorius, were a part of the Great Trek, which was a movement of settlers who left the Cape Colony in search of land and independence.

The Zulus were a dominant military power in the area under the leadership of their king, Dingane. Conflict arose due to tensions over land and resources as the Boers encroached on territories traditionally inhabited by the Zulus. The battle was notable for the use of laager tactics by the Boers, who formed a defensive circle with their wagons to fend off the Zulu warriors.

The Boers' strategic formation and superior firepower led to their victory. The event is considered significant in South African history, as it marked a turning point in the country's colonial dynamics, with the Boers gaining influence and territory.

Thus, the indigenous group involved in the Battle of Blood River with the Boers was the Zulus.

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The primary goal of early Christian missionaries in Nigeria was to spread Christianity and convert the local population. During the 19th century, missionaries from Europe, particularly from Britain, arrived in various parts of Africa, including Nigeria, with a religious mission. They aimed to preach the teachings of Christianity, introduce the Gospel, and convert indigenous people to the Christian faith.

The missionaries believed that their religious teachings would bring spiritual salvation to the local populations. They conducted religious services, translated biblical texts into local languages, and established mission schools to educate people in both religious and secular knowledge. By doing so, they hoped to instill Christian values and morals among the communities they reached.

While some missionaries also engaged in other activities such as promoting education, healthcare, and in some cases advocating for social justice, these efforts were primarily viewed as part of their overall goal of religious conversion. The spread of Christianity was seen as a way to improve the lives of the people by aligning them with what the missionaries believed to be a superior moral and spiritual framework.

In summary, while the missionaries' activities had some cultural, educational, and social impacts, the central aim was to spread the Christian faith and convert the local population.

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The infamous Middle Passage refers to the journey of enslaved Africans across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas. It wa
a horrific and inhumane voyage that resulted in immense suffering and loss of life among the enslaved population.

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One of the key factors that led to military intervention in Nigeria's First Republic was widespread corruption and political instability. During this period, there were significant levels of corruption within the government, leading to a loss of trust among the citizens and creating tension between different ethnic and political groups.

The political instability was further exacerbated by disputed elections and uneven distribution of power among the regions, which led to constant political unrest and violence. This environment made it difficult for the government to function effectively and maintain order, creating an opportunity for the military to step in as a stabilizing force.

The perception that civilian leaders were ineffective in handling national issues and ensuring fair governance led to dissatisfaction among the people and within the military ranks. As a result, the military viewed intervention as necessary to restore order and integrity in governance.

In summary, the combination of widespread corruption and political instability created a situation where the military felt compelled to intervene in Nigeria's First Republic to bring about peace and reform.

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The Islamic reform movement led by Al-Hajj Umar Tall is best characterized by the establishment of a theocratic state in Senegal and the western Sudan.

Al-Hajj Umar Tall, a prominent West African scholar and religious leader, sought to reform Islam in the region. His movement was part of a broader Islamic revival during the 19th century, aimed at purifying the practice of Islam and ruling based on religious principles. To achieve this, he implemented a system of governance grounded in Islamic law, thereby establishing a theocratic state. This state was governed by religious leaders who sought to ensure that laws and social norms were aligned with Islamic teachings.

On the other hand, his movement was not primarily focused on introducing Western education or technology, nor was it characterized by alliances with European colonial powers, who were often seen as adversaries. Additionally, while trade may have been a factor in the region's economy, the chief goal of Al-Hajj Umar Tall was religious reform and the administration of a state guided by Islamic principles.

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The rise of the Kingdom of Ashanti was primarily driven by the trade of gold. The Ashanti Empire, located in the region that is now modern-day Ghana, was rich in gold resources. This abundance of gold was a significant asset that attracted trade and commerce with various groups and empires, including the Europeans. The wealth generated from gold trade contributed to the growth of political power, military strength, and economic prosperity of the Ashanti Empire, making it one of the most powerful kingdoms in West Africa during its peak.

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The Abacha regime was known for instituting the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) as an economic policy aimed at centralizing control of Nigeria's oil revenue. This policy was established to manage and utilize funds generated from the increase in petroleum prices, ensuring that these funds were directed towards various developmental projects across the country. The PTF was specifically structured to promote national development by investing in critical sectors such as education, infrastructure, healthcare, and transportation, thereby enhancing the overall economic growth and welfare of the nation.

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The amalgamation of 1914 resulted in the creation of separate administrative structures for North and South. It led to the unification of the Northern and Southern Protectorates of Nigeria, creating distinct administrative regions.

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The humanitarian crisis during the Nigerian Civil War, often referred to as the Biafran War, was primarily exacerbated by a blockade imposed by the Nigerian government on Biafra. This war, which lasted from 1967 to 1970, was marked by severe humanitarian suffering, especially in the Biafran region.

Here is why the blockade was a significant factor:

• Supply Restrictions: The Nigerian government enforced a blockade that seriously restricted the supply of essential goods, including food, medicine, and relief materials, to the Biafran region. This isolation led to widespread starvation and health crises as the Biafran population could not access the necessary resources to sustain themselves.
• Economic Strangulation: The blockade aimed to economically choke Biafra into submission by cutting off trade and supplies, leading to a collapse of their economy and creating dire living conditions for civilians.
• Exacerbation of Famine: Due to the blockade, a severe famine ensued, known as the Biafran Famine. Images of malnourished children with protruding bellies became a symbol of the humanitarian disaster, prompting international attention and relief efforts.
• International Response: While there was an international effort to provide aid, the blockade severely limited access to those in need, complicating relief operations and prolonging the suffering.

While other factors like the destruction of infrastructure and international sanctions played roles in the conflict, it was the blockade imposed by the Nigerian government that most acutely amplified the humanitarian crisis.

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The principle established at the Berlin Conference to justify European claims to African territories was the Effective Occupation principle.

To understand this, it's important to know what happened at the Berlin Conference, which took place from 1884 to 1885. During this meeting, European powers got together to decide how they would divide Africa among themselves to avoid potential conflicts over land. They did this without considering the existing African populations and societies.

The principle of Effective Occupation meant that a European country could claim a part of Africa only if it could demonstrate that it had established control over the area. This required a presence on the ground, like setting up administrative structures, enforcing law and order, and making treaties with local leaders. Essentially, it wasn't enough to just say you owned the land; the country had to actively manage and use it.

This agreement led to the "Scramble for Africa," where European nations rushed to establish their control over different parts of Africa, often without considering the impact on the indigenous people and cultures.

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The activities of the British East Africa Company primarily led to the establishment of protectorates in East Africa. This company was a commercial and imperialistic venture that played a significant role in the colonization efforts during the Scramble for Africa in the late 19th century. It was chartered by the British government to administer and develop the British interests in East Africa.

The British East Africa Company functioned as an agent of the British government, and its operations led to the establishment and administration of British protectorates in areas that are now part of Kenya and Uganda. The goal was to secure the region for British interests, manage resources, and facilitate trade routes for ivory and other goods. Moreover, establishing these protectorates also paved the way for the construction of infrastructure such as the Uganda Railway, connecting the interior to the coastal regions.

In summary, the company's actions were instrumental in laying the groundwork for British colonial rule in East Africa.

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Theodore II, also known as Tewodros II, was an Ethiopian Emperor who reigned in the mid-1800s and sought to unify Ethiopia and modernize the country. However, he faced significant challenges in his efforts to unify the nation. One of the major challenges came from the regional lords and noblemen. Ethiopia was composed of various regions ruled by local leaders who exercised significant power and autonomy. These regional lords were often resistant to central authority and unwilling to give up their power to a centralized government. Their resistance was a significant obstacle to Theodore II's vision of a unified Ethiopian empire.

As Theodore II attempted to consolidate power, these local leaders, known as ''Ras'' or nobles, often defended their territories against his centralizing efforts. This struggle between the Emperor's central authority and the regional lords made it difficult for Theodore II to implement reforms and unify the nation under a cohesive administration.

The indigenous form of decentralized governance and the loyalty of people to their local leaders were deeply rooted, making it even more challenging for Theodore II to establish a centralized state. Therefore, the resistance by regional lords and noblemen was a primary challenge to his plans of unifying Ethiopia.

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The challenge of building effective political institutions in newly independent African states has been exacerbated by a lack of experienced administrative personnel and leadership.

When many African countries gained independence in the mid-20th century, they faced the colossal task of establishing new political structures. However, this process was hindered by a shortage of individuals who had experience in running administrative and governmental functions. During the colonial period, most of the key administrative roles were held by the colonial powers, and the native population was often excluded from high-level decision-making positions. This resulted in a significant gap in expertise and skills necessary to manage new state institutions effectively.

Furthermore, leadership was crucial to steer nations through the complexities of political transition. Many newly independent states struggled to find leaders who had both the vision and the experience needed to forge national unity while establishing stable governance systems. This lack of experienced leadership often led to political instability and weakened governance.

As a result, without the foundation of seasoned administrative and leadership skills, newly independent African states faced numerous challenges in building political institutions that were capable of fostering democracy, development, and national cohesion.

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In colonial Nigeria, the primary function of the Executive Council was to advise the Governor-General on policy matters. This council acted as a crucial body to ensure that the Governor-General's decisions and policies aligned with the interests of the British administration and, to some extent, the needs of the local populace. Their role was primarily advisory, providing suggestions, feedback, and expertise that helped shape the policies enacted by the colonial government. This setup was part of the structure that allowed for the administration of the colony in line with British interests while attempting to maintain order and control. Therefore, the main purpose of the Executive Council was advisory in nature, focusing on guiding the overall governance of the colony through strategic policy advice.

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The Yoruba city-state of Ibadan rose to prominence in the 19th century primarily due to its military prowess. This was a period marked by warfare and competition among various Yoruba city-states. Ibadan successfully expanded its influence and territory by demonstrating remarkable military strength. The city was able to attract warlords, military leaders, and refugees seeking security and opportunities for power. This foundation of military strength allowed Ibadan to defend its territory and even dominate other Yoruba states. As a result, the city prospered economically and politically, becoming a dominant force in the region.

Although its location on major trade routes and other factors such as education and resources could have contributed to its development, it was the exceptional military capabilities and organization of its leaders that made Ibadan particularly prominent during this era.

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During the colonial period in Nigeria, cocoa became highly significant as a cash crop. Cocoa was introduced to Nigeria by the British, and its cultivation spread notably in the southwestern regions, primarily in areas like the Western and Midwestern states. This was due to the suitable climate and fertile soil found in these regions, which are conducive for growing cocoa.

Cocoa quickly became an essential crop for a number of reasons:

• Economic Value: Cocoa was in high demand globally, especially in European markets. The sale of cocoa contributed significantly to Nigeria's economy, making it a major export commodity.
• Development of Infrastructure: The colonial government invested in infrastructure such as railways and roads to facilitate the transportation of cocoa and other exports. This development, in turn, boosted local economies in cocoa-producing areas.
• Employment Opportunities: The cultivation of cocoa provided employment opportunities for many Nigerian farmers, thereby improving livelihoods and supporting communities.

Overall, the significance of cocoa during the colonial period was primarily due to its high economic value, which helped establish Nigeria as a major cocoa producer on the global stage.