By Halima Imam
Nigeria’s Independence Day is a significant annual event, but it’s often celebrated without a deep understanding of the country’s rich and complex history. It is a day that should not only be marked with festivities but also with a sober reflection on the past, a critical assessment of the present, and a hopeful vision for the future.
The push to reintroduce and prioritize Nigerian history lessons in schools is therefore not just an academic exercise; it is a fundamental pillar for building a more cohesive, informed, and progressive nation. A nation that understands its past is better equipped to navigate its present and chart a sustainable course for its future.
The history of Nigeria is a tapestry woven with threads of diverse cultures, powerful kingdoms, remarkable individuals, and significant events. From the ancient civilizations of Nok, Ife, and Benin to the powerful Kanem-Bornu Empire and the intricate social structures of the Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa and Igala, Nigeria’s pre-colonial history is a testament to its people’s ingenuity and resilience. Yet, much of this history is either forgotten or overshadowed by the colonial and post-colonial narratives.
One of the most compelling reasons to teach Nigerian history is to correct historical inaccuracies and dismantle long-held myths. A classic example is the story of Mary Slessor, a Scottish missionary often credited with single-handedly stopping the killing of twins in Calabar. While Slessor’s humanitarian efforts were commendable, the narrative that she was the sole savior is historically flawed. Research and oral traditions reveal that a local king Eyo Honesty II who was the ruler of Creek Town had already begun to challenge this practice and even banned it before Slessor’s arrival.
The emphasis on Slessor’s role over the efforts of local leaders and communities is a relic of a colonial-era perspective that often minimized the agency and accomplishments of African people. Teaching a more accurate and nuanced version of this story empowers students to see their ancestors not as passive victims but as active participants in their own history.
Our independence on October 1, 1960, was not a gift but the culmination of decades of struggle. The fight for self-governance was led by a pantheon of remarkable nationalists, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Tafawa Balewa, and Ahmadu Bello. These leaders, each with their unique vision and regional base, worked tirelessly to unite a diverse nation and push for freedom from British rule.
Understanding their ideologies, their compromises, and the political landscape of the time is crucial for appreciating the foundations upon which Nigeria was built. These historical lessons provide context for the political dynamics that continue to shape the country today.
The years following independence were a whirlwind of progress and challenges. The young nation saw rapid economic growth, fueled by oil wealth and ambitious development plans. However, it also grappled with political instability, ethnic tensions, and ultimately, a devastating civil war. The Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) is a pivotal event in the nation’s history, a period of immense tragedy and heroism that continues to influence national identity and political discourse.
A proper education on the causes, events, and aftermath of the war is essential for fostering national reconciliation and ensuring such a conflict never happens again. It teaches us about the fragility of unity and the immense cost of division.
As we look back at the past 65 years, we see a nation that has overcome immense obstacles. We have survived military dictatorships, fought for the return to democracy, and navigated complex economic and social crises. Nigerian artists, writers, musicians, and filmmakers have become global icons, from the literary genius of Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka to the musical revolution of Fela Kuti and the global dominance of Afrobeats. These achievements are not just a source of national pride; they are a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Nigerian people.
The journey ahead is long, and there are many challenges to overcome. The need for better governance, a more equitable economy, and stronger national institutions remains paramount. However, our history shows us that we are a people capable of great things. The same spirit that built the walls of Benin, fought for independence, and survived a civil war is the same spirit that will drive us forward.
Teaching Nigerian history in schools is a critical step in this journey. It will not only correct past misconceptions but also instill a sense of pride and shared destiny in the younger generation. It will teach them that the challenges they face today are not new but are part of a continuous national story of struggle and resilience. It will equip them with the knowledge to critically analyze current events, demand accountability from their leaders, and actively participate in nation-building.
A nation’s history is its soul. Without it, we are a people disconnected from our roots, vulnerable to manipulation, and unable to learn from past mistakes. Let us use this Independence Day to not only celebrate our freedom but also to commit to reclaiming and teaching our history. Let us build a future where every Nigerian child knows not just the names of their heroes but also the struggles and triumphs that forged their nation. Only then can we truly say that we are a people ready to go further, together.
The lack of emphasis on historical education in Nigeria is a gaping hole in our national curriculum. For years, history was either merged with other subjects like social studies or completely removed from the school curriculum, leaving generations of Nigerians with a shallow understanding of their own heritage. This has contributed to a cycle of repeating past mistakes and a general lack of appreciation for the sacrifices made by our forebears.
The reintroduction of history as a standalone subject in schools is a commendable first step, but it must be followed by a comprehensive effort to make these lessons engaging, truthful, and relevant.
The importance of history goes beyond simply memorizing dates and names. It’s about understanding the causal links between events. For example, to fully grasp the complexities of Nigeria’s current political landscape, one must understand the constitutional conferences of the 1950s, the regional differences that shaped the pre-independence era, and the events that led to the first military coup. Without this foundational knowledge, political discussions become superficial, often reduced to ethnic or regional stereotypes rather than a nuanced analysis of historical forces.
A well-taught history lesson can help students trace the roots of contemporary issues like resource control, regional imbalances, and ethnic mistrust back to their historical origins. This historical consciousness is a powerful tool for civic engagement and informed decision-making.
One of the most powerful aspects of teaching history is its ability to build a sense of national identity and shared purpose. When students from different ethnic backgrounds learn about the bravery of leaders from other regions, the shared struggles against colonial rule, and the sacrifices made by people across the country during pivotal moments like the Civil War, it can foster empathy and a sense of shared destiny. History provides a common narrative that transcends regional and ethnic divides. It reminds us that despite our differences, we are all part of the same story, a story of a young, resilient, and diverse nation striving to fulfill its potential.
Let’s revisit the Mary Slessor myth. The persistence of this narrative is not just a historical inaccuracy; it is an example of how colonial narratives can distort our understanding of our own past. In this version of history, the “savage” African practice of killing twins is stopped by a benevolent white savior, thereby justifying the colonial enterprise as a “civilizing mission.”
A more truthful history would acknowledge the practice as part of a complex belief system while also highlighting the internal African movements and individuals who were already challenging it. For instance, the Efik king, who had already initiated the ban on the practice in certain areas, deserves to be celebrated for his foresight and humanity.
Teaching this version of the story restores agency to African historical figures and challenges the Eurocentric view that progress only came with external intervention. This correction is not about demonizing Slessor but about celebrating the African people who were also agents of change in their own communities.
The need for a robust Nigerian history curriculum is also evident in the current global context. As the world becomes more interconnected, it is more important than ever for young Nigerians to understand their place in the global narrative. A strong foundation in their own history provides them with the cultural anchors they need to navigate a globalized world without losing their identity. They can learn about the impact of the trans-Atlantic slave trade on West African societies, the role of Nigerian soldiers in World War I and II, and the influence of Nigerian diplomats in international organizations. This knowledge not only builds self-esteem but also prepares them to be global citizens who are proud of their heritage and knowledgeable about the complexities of global history.
Our future as a nation depends on how well we understand our past. We must move beyond the superficial celebrations of Independence Day and use it as an opportunity for deep introspection. We must ask ourselves: What lessons have we learned from the past 65 years? How can we apply the resilience of our ancestors to the challenges of today? How can we ensure that the next generation is not only aware of their history but also inspired by it?
The task of teaching history should not fall solely on schools. Families, communities, and national institutions must also play a role. Museums, historical sites, and cultural festivals should be promoted as learning spaces. The government must invest in training history teachers, developing accurate and engaging curriculum materials, and digitizing historical archives to make them accessible to the public.
Nigeria is a nation of incredible potential. We have a youthful, energetic population, vast natural resources, and a rich cultural heritage. To unlock this potential, we must first empower our people with knowledge. A nation that knows its history is a nation that is confident in its identity, capable of critical self-reflection, and ready to take its rightful place on the world stage.
This Independence Day, let’s not just celebrate our freedom; let’s celebrate our story. Let’s commit to teaching it, honoring it, and using it as a guide to build a future that our forebears would be proud of. The journey has been long, but the destination is still within our reach. We have come far, but we can go so much further, provided we learn from where we have been.
Reintroducing history into our school curriculum is the first and most crucial step in addressing a nation’s collective amnesia. It’s an act of intellectual decolonization, a conscious effort to reclaim our narrative from the distortions of colonial and neo-colonial perspectives.
The story of Mary Slessor is a perfect illustration of this point. For generations, we were taught a history where a white missionary was the sole hero who brought an end to a ‘barbaric’ practice. The truth, however, is far more complex and empowering. It reveals that our own ancestors were capable of change, reform, and progress on their own terms. This isn’t about diminishing Slessor’s efforts, but about restoring the dignity and agency of the Efik people and their leaders.
Nigeria’s history is replete with such examples of internal strength and innovation. The Benin Kingdom, with its sophisticated bronze artistry and complex political structure, was a flourishing civilization long before European contact. The Sokoto Caliphate was a powerful and well-organized Islamic state that spanned a vast region of northern Nigeria. These are not just historical footnotes; they are testaments to our ability to build, govern, and create. By teaching these stories, we provide our children with role models who look like them and who were architects of their own destiny. This historical pride is a powerful antidote to the societal challenges of self-doubt and a reliance on external solutions.
The struggle for independence itself is a story of immense courage and strategic thinking. The nationalists were not a monolithic group; they represented diverse ideologies and regional interests. Obafemi Awolowo’s push for federalism and his emphasis on education, Nnamdi Azikiwe’s Pan-Africanist vision, and Tafawa Balewa’s balancing act between regional and national interests are all critical components of our founding narrative. A comprehensive understanding of these figures and their contributions helps us appreciate the delicate balance that has always defined the Nigerian experiment. It provides context for the current political debates and reminds us that compromise and dialogue are essential for a multi-ethnic nation.
The post-independence era is just as vital. We must teach our children about the trials and triumphs of the First Republic, the tragic events of the Civil War, and the long struggle for democracy during the military regimes. The story of Ken Saro-Wiwa, the writer and environmental activist who was executed by the military government, is a powerful lesson on the cost of dissent and the importance of human rights. The heroism of pro-democracy activists who fought for the return of civilian rule is a source of inspiration. These are not just events from a textbook; they are the stories of our shared struggle for a better society.
Celebrating how far we have come means acknowledging both our successes and our failures. We have built a vibrant film industry (Nollywood) that is a global phenomenon. Our music and fashion have a global reach.
Our people have excelled in every field, from science and technology to sports and the arts. These achievements are a source of immense pride and a reminder of our potential.
However, we must also acknowledge the failures—the periods of misgovernance, the economic hardships, and the persistent issue of corruption. A true understanding of history allows us to critically examine these failures and ask ourselves, “Why did this happen?” and “How can we prevent it from happening again?” History, in this sense, is not just a record of the past; it is a tool for building a better future.
The need to go further is self-evident. We must build a Nigeria where every citizen has access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. We must strengthen our democratic institutions, foster a culture of accountability, and promote national unity. This cannot be achieved without a collective sense of purpose, a shared understanding of our identity, and a deep appreciation for the journey we have traveled.
By making Nigerian history a cornerstone of our education system, we are making an investment in our future. We are raising a generation of young people who are not only knowledgeable about their past but are also inspired to be a part of a better future. They will learn that progress is not an accident but the result of hard work, courage, and a commitment to a common cause. They will understand that their destiny is not predetermined but is something they must actively shape.
As we celebrate another Independence Day, let’s reflect on the profound words of our founding fathers and the sacrifices of countless heroes. Let’s use this day as a call to action. Let’s make a solemn promise to our children and to ourselves: that we will never again allow our history to be forgotten. We will tell our stories, correct the mistakes of the past, and build a nation that is truly worthy of the sacrifices that have been made. The journey is far from over, but with a clear understanding of our past and a unified vision for our future, there is no limit to how far we can go.
