Nigeria as an Artificial Country: The Making and Unmaking of a Nation

For many, Nigeria is a real country, steeped in history and culture. Yet, its formation is an interesting case study in artificial countries created by colonial powers. Nigeria, in particular, was artificially created by the British Empire, blurring lines of cultural, linguistic, and political borderlines.

Colonial Roots and Political Creation

The history of Nigeria as a nation is deeply rooted in the colonial period. In 1914, the British managed to combine two protectorates (Northern and Southern Nigeria) and the tiny colony of Lagos under a single administrative entity, known today as Nigeria. This artificial country brought together 250 socio-political entities and 500 languages under one umbrella, a situation that was fraught with inherent challenges.

The British Colonial Experiment

The British used a policy of gunboat diplomacy to force the existing African kingdoms and caliphates to hand over their sovereignty. The impetus for this was economic and resource-driven, with Nigeria becoming Britain's second most populous colony after India. The registration of Nigeria as a single entity was a temporary arrangement, lasting only 46 years, during which the country was given only limited Home Rule.

Internal Tensions and Political Manipulation

The formation of Nigeria was never intended to be a long-term solution. The British government used a clever strategy to maintain control. They promised that the North would always control the political and economic realm, ensuring that the south would not dominate. This strategy played out as the north became increasingly skeptical about the idea of continued federation, fearing economic and political domination.

Political and Social Fragmentation

The internal conflicts within Nigeria are a direct result of this artificial construction. The north and the south, along with the southwestern Yoruba, have distinct identities and interests. Many smaller ethnic groups within these regions also feel marginalized, leading to a fragmented national identity. Some regions, such as the Eastern part of Nigeria, are questioning their loyalty to the country.

Socio-Political Instability and Resource Disputes

The resource distribution in Nigeria is often a source of tension, particularly in areas like the Niger Delta, where oil reserves are located. The indigenous ethnic groups in the Niger Delta, such as the Ijaw, are seeking control over their resources, leading to potential conflict with the Biafran region. Similarly, the Igbo and Yoruba peoples have their own ambitions and resource control aspirations, leading to a complex web of political relations.

Future of Nigeria: A Nation on the Brink?

Given the current situation, it is not impossible that Nigeria as we know it today may not survive. The north, with its large population but limited economic resources, may consider secession if they had their own significant economic base. The same goes for other regions, such as the South-East, where smaller ethnic groups might prefer to join the South or pursue independence.

Conclusion

The formation of Nigeria is a testament to the colonial powers' desire to control vast resources and populations. However, the artificial nature of its creation has led to socio-political tensions that may challenge its very existence. As the country faces internal fragmentation, the question of whether Nigeria remains a single entity or breaks into smaller, more cohesive states becomes increasingly relevant. The future of Nigeria is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the country is at a critical juncture.