Role of NCNC in liberation of Nigeria from colonial rule – Key points

The National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.

1. Formation and Leadership:

• Founded in 1944: The NCNC was founded by Nnamdi Azikiwe and Herbert Macaulay. Azikiwe became the Secretary-General, and Macaulay served as the first President.
• Mass Political Party: The NCNC was a mass political party that embraced various nationalist groups, cultural associations, and labor movements from different regions of Nigeria.

2. Advocacy and Mobilization:

• Newspaper Press: The NCNC founded the West African Pilot, a newspaper that articulated nationalist views and raised awareness about the evils of colonialism.
• Public Meetings and Rallies: The party organized public meetings, rallies, and protests to mobilize support for independence.

3. Political Campaigns:

• Constitutional Reforms: The NCNC pressured the British colonial authorities to introduce constitutional and political changes. They highlighted the loopholes in the Richards Constitution of 1946 and sent delegations to London to raise complaints.
• Elections: The NCNC participated in elections and won majority votes in the Eastern Region, although it became the opposition in the Western Region.

4. Support for Workers’ Rights:

• Trade Unionism: The NCNC supported workers’ strikes and riots between 1948 and 1950, advocating for better labor conditions and rights.

5. Unity and Nationalism:

• United Front: The NCNC advocated for a united Nigeria rather than a tribally divided one. They emphasized the importance of national unity in the struggle for independence.

6. International Advocacy:

• Diplomatic Efforts: The NCNC sent delegations to international platforms, such as the United Nations, to garner support for Nigeria’s independence.
• Constitutional Debates: The party participated in constitutional debates in London, which eventually led to Nigeria’s independence in 1960.

7. Legacy:

• First President: Nnamdi Azikiwe, the leader of the NCNC, became the first indigenous President of Nigeria after independence.

The NCNC’s efforts in mobilizing the masses, advocating for constitutional reforms, and promoting national unity were crucial in Nigeria’s successful attainment of independence.

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Thanks

Dr. Bbosa Science