Green Bridge Learning Resource For Institutions Of Government In The Post–Independence

Overview

Political Development in Nigeria: Institutions of Government in the Post-Independence Era In the post-independence era, Nigeria witnessed significant political developments that shaped the institutions of government. The structure, functions, and workings of the legislative, executive, and judiciary arms of government played crucial roles in shaping the country's governance system. The evolution of these institutions was influenced by various internal and external factors, including colonial legacies, nationalist movements, and constitutional reforms. The structural organization of Nigeria's government institutions post-independence was influenced by the country's colonial history. The British colonial administrative policy laid the foundation for the structure of the Nigerian government, while the French colonial administrative policy also imparted some influences. The impact of British colonial rule can be seen in the adoption of certain administrative practices and legal systems in Nigeria. As nationalist movements gained momentum in Nigeria, there was a push for greater autonomy and self-governance. Nationalist leaders emerged, championing the cause for independence and advocating for the rights of the Nigerian people. Nationalist parties were formed to consolidate support for independence, leading to the drafting of various constitutions that shaped the political landscape of the country. The Hugh Clifford Constitution of 1922, the Arthur Richards Constitution of 1946, the John Macpherson Constitution of 1951, the Oliver Lyttleton Constitution of 1954, and the Independence Constitution of 1960 were pivotal in defining the political structures and functions of the Nigerian government. Subsequent constitutional developments in 1963, 1979, 1989, and 1999 further refined the characteristics of the Nigerian government, albeit with some shortcomings that needed to be addressed. The legislative arm of government played a crucial role in lawmaking and oversight functions, ensuring that the interests of the Nigerian people were represented. The executive arm implemented policies and decisions, while the judiciary acted as the arbiter of disputes and protector of the rule of law. Understanding the functions and workings of these government institutions is essential for evaluating the operations of the arms of government and their agencies, such as the civil service, armed forces, police, courts, and others. In conclusion, the institutions of government in post-independence Nigeria underwent significant developments that shaped the country's political landscape. By analyzing the structural organization, functions of political institutions, colonial legacies, nationalist movements, constitutional reforms, and the impact of external factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of Nigeria's political development and governance system.

Objectives

Evaluate The Operations Of The Arms Of Government And Their Agencies
Assess The Impact Of British Colonial Rule
Examine The Functions Of The Various Political Institutions
Analyze The Structural Organization Of The Legislative, Executive, And Judiciary
Investigate The Emergence Of Nationalist Movements And Leaders
Critically Analyze The Characteristics And Shortcomings Of Various Nigerian Constitutions
Explore The Influence Of External Factors On Political Development
Compare The British And French Colonial Administrative Policies

Lesson Note

The post-independence era of Nigerian governance is marked by the establishment and evolution of several key institutions. These institutions were shaped by the legacies of British colonial rule and have been influenced by various internal and external factors over the decades. Understanding the roles and functions of these institutions is crucial for comprehending the political landscape of Nigeria today.

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Institutions Of Government In The Post–Independence. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

What were major characteristics of the Independence Constitution of Nigeria in 1960? A. Federal system with a parliamentary system of government B. Unicameral legislature with a President as ceremonial head of state C. Unitary system with a presidential system of government D. Bicameral legislature with a Prime Minister as head of government Answer: A. Federal system with a parliamentary system of government
Who was the Governor-General during the enactment of the Independence Constitution of Nigeria in 1960? A. Sir Hugh Clifford B. Sir John Macpherson C. Sir Arthur Richards D. Sir James Robertson Answer: B. Sir John Macpherson
Which Nigerian Constitution introduced the concept of Regionalism in the country? A. Arthur Richards Constitution (1946) B. Independence Constitution (1960) C. Oliver Lyttleton Constitution (1954) D. John Macpherson Constitution (1951) Answer: C. Oliver Lyttleton Constitution (1954)
Which Constitution marked the transition of Nigeria from a colonial territory to an independent nation? A. Arthur Richards Constitution (1946) B. Independence Constitution (1960) C. Oliver Lyttleton Constitution (1954) D. Hugh Clifford Constitution (1922) Answer: B. Independence Constitution (1960)
In which year was the first Republican Constitution enacted in Nigeria? A. 1960 B. 1963 C. 1979 D. 1989 Answer: B. 1963
Who was the first President of the Republic of Nigeria under the 1963 Constitution? A. Nnamdi Azikiwe B. Obafemi Awolowo C. Tafawa Balewa D. Aguiyi Ironsi Answer: A. Nnamdi Azikiwe
Which Constitution reintroduced the Executive Presidential system of government in Nigeria? A. 1979 Constitution B. 1989 Constitution C. 1999 Constitution D. 1963 Constitution Answer: A. 1979 Constitution
Who was Nigeria's first Executive President under the 1979 Constitution? A. Shehu Shagari B. Olusegun Obasanjo C. Ibrahim Babangida D. Muhammadu Buhari Answer: A. Shehu Shagari
Which Constitution marked the return to democratic rule in Nigeria after years of military dictatorship? A. 1979 Constitution B. 1989 Constitution C. 1999 Constitution D. 1963 Constitution Answer: C. 1999 Constitution

Recommended Books

	A History of Nigeria Subtitle From Precolonial Times to the Modern Era Publisher Cambridge University Press Year 2017 ISBN 978-1107666616
	British Colonialism in Nigeria Subtitle The Influence on Nigerian Government and Politics Publisher Routledge Year 2018 ISBN 978-1138090565

Past Questions

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