On 1 October 1960, the Federation of Nigeria formally gained independence from British colonial rule, marking the culmination of decades of nationalist struggle and constitutional negotiation. The independence ceremony held at Lagos Race Course (now Tafawa Balewa Square) symbolised both the end of British sovereignty and the dawn of a new era of self-government.
Prime Minister Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa’s call for unity and national service resonated deeply across the newly sovereign federation. In his words, “This is the day we have been waiting for… our great day of freedom”
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Colonial Legacy and Nationalist Awakening
The Colonial Framework
British expansion into what became modern Nigeria developed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries through treaties, conquest, and commercial interests. In 1914, the British amalgamated the Northern and Southern Protectorates with the Colony of Lagos into one entity, Nigeria, under a single Governor-General, Sir Frederick Lugard.
The British colonial administration implemented a system of indirect rule, governing through traditional authorities, while focusing primarily on resource extraction rather than inclusive political development. However, colonialism also introduced Western education, Christianity, literacy, and new infrastructure. These changes produced an emerging class of educated Nigerians who would later lead the nationalist movement.
Early Political Mobilisation
By the early 20th century, Lagos became the nucleus of political activity. Herbert Macaulay, often regarded as Nigeria’s “Father of Nationalism,” founded the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923, contesting the first elections to the Lagos Legislative Council.
In the 1930s, the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM) emerged, championing self-governance, merit, and social reform.
By the 1940s and 1950s, nationalist politics expanded across the regions, and three dominant political parties emerged:
- The National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), led by Nnamdi Azikiwe, with a pan-Nigerian vision and strong eastern support base.
- The Action Group (AG), founded by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, rooted in the Western Region and advocating education, federalism, and social welfare.
- The Northern People’s Congress (NPC), led by Sir Ahmadu Bello, emphasizing northern interests and gradual political reform.
Although differing ideologically, these parties collectively pressured Britain for constitutional reform and eventual self-government.
Constitutional Reforms and the Road to Independence
Colonial Constitutions and Gradual Change
Between 1946 and 1954, Nigeria underwent significant constitutional reforms:
- The Richards Constitution (1946)introduced limited regional representation but was criticized for being imposed without consultation.
- The Macpherson Constitution (1951)expanded legislative councils and encouraged regional legislatures, increasing local participation.
- The Lyttleton Constitution (1954)established a formal federal system, dividing Nigeria into three autonomous regions, Northern, Western, and Eastern, each with its own government.
These reforms, though colonial in origin, gave Nigerian politicians experience in governance and administrative practice.
Negotiations and Constitutional Conferences
Between 1953 and 1958, a series of constitutional conferences in London and Lagos defined Nigeria’s political future.
- The Western and Eastern Regions achieved self-government in 1957, followed by the Northern Region in 1959.
- That same year, federal elections resulted in a coalition between the NPC and NCNC, with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa becoming Nigeria’s Prime Minister.
In July 1960, the UK Parliament passed the Nigerian Independence Act, formally ending British legal authority over Nigeria effective 1 October 1960.
The Independence Ceremony: Nigeria Takes the Stage
Setting and Protocols
The official independence ceremony took place at the Lagos Race Course before a crowd estimated at 30,000–40,000 spectators, joined by local and international dignitaries. A National Independence Celebrations Committee coordinated the events, which featured military parades, cultural performances, and the illumination of Lagos.
At midnight, transitioning from 30 September to 1 October 1960, the Union Jack was lowered, and the green-white-green flag of Nigeria was raised for the first time, a defining symbol of sovereignty.
Princess Alexandra of Kent, representing Queen Elizabeth II, read the Queen’s goodwill message and officiated the handover ceremony. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe was formally appointed Governor-General on 16 November 1960, serving as the Queen’s representative, while Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa continued as Prime Minister.
National Symbols and Innovations
The new national flag, designed by Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, a student, was chosen through a public competition in 1959. His design, green, white, green, symbolised agriculture and peace. The original red sun motif was removed before final adoption.
The flag was first raised by Lieutenant David Ejoor of the Nigerian Army Guard.
A Nigerian Independence Medal was also introduced to honour members of the military, police, and civil services who contributed to the independence transition.
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Nationwide Celebrations and Local Expressions
While Lagos hosted the official events, independence festivities swept across the nation.
- In the North, traditional durbars and royal horsemen parades animated cities like Kano and Kaduna.
- In the West and East, communities organised masquerades, folk dances, and thanksgiving services in churches and mosques.
- Cities such as Enugu, Ibadan, and Onitsha hosted parades, cultural shows, and flag-raising ceremonies, echoing the national mood of unity and optimism
Despite Nigeria’s ethnic and regional diversity, the shared joy of independence fostered a sense of collective pride and destiny.
Post-Independence Realities
Political Structure
The 1960 Independence Constitution established a Westminster-style parliamentary system. The British monarch remained Nigeria’s ceremonial head of state, represented by Governor-General Nnamdi Azikiwe, while executive power rested with Prime Minister Balewa and his Cabinet.
This structure maintained Nigeria as a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.
In 1963, Nigeria adopted a Republican Constitution, removing the British monarch as head of state and making Azikiwe the first President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Challenges and Transitions
Despite the optimism of independence, postcolonial Nigeria soon faced major challenges, regional rivalries, electoral crises, and ethnic tensions. By January 1966, the country experienced its first military coup, which ended the First Republic.
The subsequent Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970) tested the unity achieved in 1960. Nevertheless, independence remained the foundational symbol of Nigeria’s sovereignty and enduring national aspiration.
Legacy and Significance of October 1
Every October 1, Nigerians commemorate Independence Day with flag-raising ceremonies, presidential addresses, parades, and cultural exhibitions. The national symbols, the flag, coat of arms, and the anthem “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” (officially adopted in 1960 and replaced by “Arise, O Compatriots” in 1978), continue to embody ideals of unity, faith, and peace.
Nigeria’s independence stands as more than a date in history; it is a living reminder of the struggle for self-determination, the challenges of nation-building, and the resilience of Africa’s most populous country.
References:
Nigerian Independence Act 1960, UK Parliament
British Pathé News Archive – “Nigeria: Independence Day (1960)”
Nigerian Embassy, Stockholm – “History of Nigeria”
Vanguard News (1 October 2010) – “How Nigeria Celebrated Independence in 1960”
BlackPast.org – “Abubakar Tafawa Balewa: Independence Speech”
MedalRegistry.uk – “Nigerian Independence Medal, 1960”
