FAQ · History 36

During the Middle Stone Age, archaic humans using Acheulean tools may have lived throughout West Africa. Specifically, the Iho Eleru people persisted at Iho Eleru in Nigeria as late as 13,000 BP. This period saw various migrations and shifts in settlement patterns due to climate changes. For instance, an excessively dry Ogolian period occurred between 20,000 BP and 12,000 BP. Later, changes in humidity and the expansion of forests influenced the number of settlements in the region.

Ila Orangun is an ancient city located in Osun State within the Igbomina area of Yorubaland. It served as the capital of an ancient city-state of the same name in south-western Nigeria. The ancient city is quite large and contains over 200 compounds. The traditional ruler of this town is known by the title of Orangun. The local people speak a distinctive Yoruba dialect called Igbomina.

Medieval Arabic sources referred to the area as Sudan or Bilad Al Sudan, which means Land of the Blacks. This designation may have led to the term Negroland being used by Europeans until the 19th century. The populations were partially affiliated with the Arab Muslim culture of North Africa and were considered an extended part of the Muslim world. Early historical references by medieval Arab and Muslim historians identified the Kanem-Bornu Empire as the major centre for Islamic civilization in the region. The area was gradually fulanised through the spread of Islam starting from the 7th century AD.

The history of Nigeria can be traced back to early inhabitants from at least 9000 BC and early civilizations like the Nok culture. Numerous ancient African civilizations settled in the region, including the Ife Empire, Kingdom of Nri, the Benin Kingdom, and the Oyo Empire. The Edo Empire of Benin, the Oyo Empire, and the Aro Confederacy were also known as prolific slave-trading kingdoms. Additionally, Islam reached the area through the Bornu Empire and the Hausa Kingdom. Christianity later arrived in the 15th century.

Nigeria was part of the British Empire from the mid-nineteenth century until it achieved independence on 1 October 1960. Britain annexed Lagos in 1861 and established the Oil River Protectorate in 1884. In 1914, the Northern Nigeria Protectorate and the Southern Nigeria Protectorate were combined to form the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria. The British imposed an autocratic and bureaucratic form of government that utilized an economic system designed to profit from African labour. This system was based on a money economy using the British pound sterling. Administration and military control were conducted primarily by white Britons.

Chief Anthony Eromosele Enahoro was the first person to move the motion for Nigeria's independence in 1953. Although his initial motion suffered a setback in parliament due to a walkout by northern members, it sparked a popular movement against colonialism. Other figures like S. L. Akintola and Remi Fani-Kayode later attempted to revisit the motion. Eventually, a motion proposed by Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa in 1959 was passed. Nigeria was eventually granted independence in 1960 after these various political efforts.

During the 19th century, a significant Islamic reform led by Usman Dan Fodio took place. This movement resulted in Sokoto replacing Katsina as the centre of Hausa Islamic scholarship. Before this period, Katsina had served as the primary hub for such studies. These historical shifts changed the religious and scholarly landscape of the region. The reform remains a key part of the history of the Hausa people.

During World War II, Nigerian military units served in various campaigns including Ethiopia, Palestine, Morocco, Sicily, and Burma. These wartime experiences allowed soldiers to interact across ethnic boundaries in unusual ways. The conflict also led the British to reappraise the political future of Nigeria. A polarization emerged between older leaders favoring gradualism and younger intellectuals seeking immediate change. Additionally, the 1940s saw a rapid growth in organized labour, with union membership increasing sixfold to 30,000.

During World War II, three battalions of the Nigeria Regiment fought against Fascist Italy in the Ethiopian campaign. Nigerian units also served with British forces in Palestine, Morocco, Sicily, and Burma, where they won many honours. These wartime experiences allowed soldiers to interact across ethnic boundaries in ways that were unusual in Nigeria. The war also led the British to reappraise the political future of the country. Additionally, the war years saw the rapid growth of organised labour and a polarization between different types of political leaders.

During the Cold War, the Republic of Biafra adopted an ideology of non-alignment similar to other post-colonial states. This approach was reflected in the Ahiara Declaration, which served as one of the most progressive national constitutions in Africa at the time. The document used this platform to criticize the West for its role in global issues and to outline the ideals of the young nation. It also criticized imperialism by outside countries and addressed corruption within both Nigeria and Biafra. This political stance signaled a shift toward a more radical phase in the short history of the republic.

Aminu Kano was a highly respected politician in Northern Nigeria who symbolized democratization, freedom of speech, and women's empowerment. He joined the Northern Elements Progressive Union to challenge the autocratic and feudalistic actions of the Native Northern Government. Through his campaign, he sought to create an egalitarian society by advocating for the rights of commoners and petty traders. He also proposed a fiscal system that favored heavy taxation of the rich and supported equal rights for women. His legacy continues through various institutions, including a center for democratic research and training located at his former home.

The current constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is the written supreme law of the country. It was enacted on 29 May 1999 and initiated the Fourth Nigerian Republic. Unlike some Western constitutions that state all persons are equal, the Nigerian version restricts this equality to citizens only. The nation's structure and composition are a legacy of British colonial rule. Nigeria has undergone many attempts to form an effective constitution through various political institutions.

The Anglo-Aro War was a conflict between the British Empire and the Aro Confederacy in present-day Eastern Nigeria from 1901 to 1902. The war began after years of failed negotiations and increasing tension between British colonial forces and Aro leaders. The British aimed to stop the slave trade and abolish the Aro Juju hierarchy to establish government control. They also sought to introduce legitimate trade, a new currency, and a labor market to replace slavery. Additionally, the British wanted to open the region to civilization and end the use of divinatory practices linked to slavery.

The Igbo-Igala Wars were a series of conflicts between the Igbo and Igala people in pre-colonial Nigeria. These wars occurred during the 18th and 19th centuries. The primary drivers of these conflicts were territorial disputes, competition for resources, and political power struggles. Both ethnic groups engaged in military confrontations to gain control over strategic territories. These wars were part of the complex inter-ethnic relations of that historical period. Ultimately, the conflicts helped shape the socio-political landscape of the region.

Barbushe was a hunter and a pagan chief priest who served as the most prominent leader of the indigenous animists of Dala. This location eventually became the most important site in the foundation of Kano in Northern Nigeria. He was known as an exceptionally strong man and a skilled sorcerer who possessed unrivaled knowledge of the pagan god Tsumburbura. Through his leadership, he guided other pagans and lesser priests who sought his guidance. The city of Dala and the Dala Hill are named after him.

Mallam Aminu Kano was a prominent Nigerian politician, teacher, and trade unionist who played a major role in the independence movement. He was a founding figure of the Northern Elements Progressive Union and later led the People's Redemption Party. He is remembered for his opposition to colonialism and his efforts to empower the talakawa, or commoners, against social inequalities. As a visionary reformer, he championed democratic socialism, women's rights, and social justice. Today, he is considered one of the founding fathers of modern Nigeria and a symbol of grassroots activism.

Ransome-Kuti was a political figure who developed strong ties with women's organizations in Algeria, Egypt, and Ghana. During a visit to China in 1956, she gave public lectures concerning Nigerian women and culture. She also traveled to various international locations and participated in global women's rights discussions. Her political work continued even after the death of her husband in 1955. She eventually ran as an independent candidate in 1959 after being denied a second chance to run for the NCNC.

Fula society features a rigid caste system with medieval roots that has survived into the modern age. This system is endogamous, meaning individuals marry only within their own caste. The four major castes include nobility, traders, tradesmen, and descendants of slaves. While artisans like blacksmiths and potters are considered free people, other groups belong to castes of captive, slave, or serf ancestry. Additionally, some Fulani rulers and merchants were involved in the trans-Atlantic slave trade by sourcing people through raids and war.

The Federal Government of Nigeria established the Industrial Training Fund on 8 October 1971 to address a severe shortage of skilled labor. This lack of manpower was seen as a significant barrier to the country's industrial growth and modernization. Through the Industrial Training Fund Act, the agency was created to provide skills acquisition and industrial training programs. Its primary mission is to develop human resources to support economic diversification and industrialization. By equipping individuals with practical skills, the fund aims to meet the requirements of the industrial and commercial sectors.

Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro was a Nigerian nationalist and military officer of Ijaw heritage. He is widely regarded as an early advocate for the rights of minority groups in Nigeria. In 1966, he established the Niger Delta Volunteer Force and proclaimed the Niger Delta Republic. This declaration led to a conflict with federal forces that lasted twelve days. After being granted amnesty by the federal government, he joined the Nigerian Army and served during the Civil War. He lost his life in 1968 while on active duty near Okrika in Rivers State.

Following its transition to a Republic, Nigeria maintained a Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York. During this period, Nigerian representatives worked within the United Nations special committee on Apartheid. One notable achievement was drafting a resolution presented to the General Assembly in 1965. This resolution established a trust fund to help governments defend political detainees in South Africa. Nigeria also used various forums to condemn the Unilateral Declaration of Independence by the administration in Southern Rhodesia.

Olugbenga Ashiru was a notable Nigerian politician and career diplomat. He served as the Ambassador to South Korea during his diplomatic career. His professional background included specializing in International Relations at the University of Lagos. He eventually rose to the position of Foreign Minister of Nigeria from 2011 to 2013. His extensive service spanned more than three decades within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During the 2002 World Cup held in South Korea and Japan, Nigeria faced South Korea in their final group stage match. Nigeria took an early lead in the 12th minute thanks to a goal by Kalu Uche. However, South Korea responded with goals from Lee Jung-Soo and Park Chu-Young to take a 2-1 lead. Nigeria had a significant opportunity to equalize in the 66th minute when Yakubu received a pass near the empty goal. Despite this chance, the match concluded with South Korea leading as they moved toward the round of 16.

The Oba diaspora consists of various Igbomina and non-Igbomina towns with large concentrations of Oba people. While the Isedo clans are considered the earliest surviving group to purposefully found a kingdom, other Oba-derivative diasporas resulted from refugee flights caused by wars and slave raids. These communities are spread across locations such as Oke-Ila Orangun, Omu-Aran, and several towns in Kwara and Osun states. The Isedo communities resulting from these historical migrations exist in Ipoti-Ekiti and other towns in Kwara State. Efforts to document these legends of origin and emigration have been led by His Royal Highness, Dr. Olúfẹ́mi Ọládàpọ̀ Babalọlá.

The LagosPhoto festival has addressed these themes through various editions. The eleventh edition focused on Rapid Response Restitution and the concept of a decolonial citizens' history. It introduced the Home Museum, which served as a prototype for a citizens' institution. This platform allowed members of society to contribute to the communal understanding of cultural values. Through this, people could directly engage with questions of restitution to eliminate delays in the process.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are places of importance to cultural or natural heritage. Cultural heritage includes monuments, groups of buildings, and archaeological sites. Natural heritage consists of physical and biological formations, geological features, or sites important for science and beauty. To be listed, a site must meet at least one of the ten specific UNESCO criteria. Nigeria became eligible for these inclusions after accepting the convention in 1974.

The definition used for drought can change based on how rainfall is measured over a calendar year. If statistics are summarized over a full year, a drought might not appear to exist. However, moisture levels during the specific growing season might indicate that a drought is actually occurring. This discrepancy happens because different definitions can lead to distinct conclusions about the phenomenon. Therefore, the timing of rainfall relative to the calendar is a crucial factor in studying drought.

The Bajju and Takad people share a common ancestry through two brothers named Zampara and Wai. Wai became the ancestor of the Atsam people, while Zampara settled at Hurbuang and had two sons named Baranzan and Akad. Akad stayed near the hills and became the ancestor of the Takad people, creating a close relationship between the two tribes. Due to this connection, a religious law was traditionally established to prevent the two groups from intermarrying. Although this law was later abolished following a period of crisis, the historical ties between the nations remain significant.

Esan folktales and folklore, such as the igbabonẹlimhin and akhuẹ, serve as forms of learning and entertainment. The Esan people maintain traditional beliefs through the worship of ancestral spirits and various gods. One major deity is Osanobua, who is the main Edo-Esan god. Another deity is Osun, the Esan god of medicine, from which the surname Okosun originates. Additionally, Olokun Èṣù is a god shared with Yoruba and Edo myth, though it is often wrongly categorized as a trickster god. These traditions remain significant despite the long-term impact of Christianity in the region.

The Ijok-irin, also known as the Unyeada Fishing Festival, is an annual cultural event for the Obolo people in the Unyeada Kingdom of Rivers State. It is celebrated during the summer months between July and August to usher in a new fishing season. According to oral tradition, the festival's origins are traced back to the very existence of the people, dating to about the 12th Century BC. The tradition is rooted in a marine society where catching a large fish is seen as a sign of strength and bravery. It serves as a time when migrant fishermen return from the Gulf of Guinea with their biggest catches to observe the festivities.

The amendment to Anambra State University Law No. ANHA/LAW/2006/01 changed the name of the institution to Anambra State University. This 2006 Amendment Law provided for a three-campus structure for the university. Although the law prescribed the establishment of an Alor Campus to house the administrative headquarters, this campus did not take off. In 2010, the state House of Assembly passed an amendment act to provide legal backing for a third campus. This resulted in a three-campus structure situated at Uli, Awka, and Igbariam.

The Anglophone Crisis in Cameroon has led to significant displacement, with many people fleeing violence to seek refuge in neighbouring Nigeria. Most asylum seekers have arrived in the states of Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross River, and Taraba. The Nigerian government and the UNHCR have provided Temporary Protection Status and established settlements for these refugees. However, limited resources and the need for international support remain significant challenges. Additionally, the economic disruption in Cameroon has made migrants vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation within Nigeria.

Before the first case was confirmed, the Nigerian government took several proactive steps to prepare for the virus. The Federal government assured citizens of strengthened surveillance at five international airports, including Lagos and Kano. Additionally, a Coronavirus Preparedness Group was established to mitigate the potential impact of the virus. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control also set up a specific group and prepared to activate an incident system. These measures were taken following the identification of Nigeria as a high-risk country by the World Health Organization.

Nigeria experienced several significant events throughout 2024, including a new minimum wage agreement of ₦70,000 reached in July. The country also participated in the 2024 Summer Olympics from late July to mid-August. Various protests occurred nationwide regarding the cost-of-living crisis, leading to the declaration of curfews in several states. Tragic incidents also included a school building collapse in Plateau State and a boat explosion in Bayelsa State. Additionally, there were reports of abductions and attacks involving unidentified gunmen in different regions.

President Bola Tinubu signed the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 into law on 26 June 2025. This act was signed alongside three companion statutes known collectively as the Tax Reform Acts. The legislation aims to consolidate the country's tax framework and widen the tax base by replacing several pre-existing statutes with a single unified framework. It also moves tax administration toward digital tools like mandatory e-invoicing. While some provisions of the companion acts took effect upon signing, most substantive provisions of the Nigeria Tax Act were set to commence on 1 January 2026.

The 2025–26 football season in Nigeria involves several competitive club competitions. Remo Stars and Rivers United are participating in the 2025–26 CAF Champions League. Additionally, Kwara United and Abia Warriors are competing in the 2025–26 CAF Confederation Cup. These club activities span from September 2025 to August 2026. The season also includes various national team updates and results.