The philosophy behind Nigerian federalism is

1. Analyze the question The question asks for the guiding philosophy (the central idea) behind federalism in Nigeria. Think of why Nigeria chose a federal system in the first place.

2. Explain the concept Federalism is a system where power is shared between a central government and regional or state governments. Nigeria has hundreds of ethnic groups, many languages, and different religions and cultures. Federalism was adopted (formally in the 1954 Lyttelton Constitution) so that these diverse groups could stay together as one nation while keeping their own identities and some self-government. This idea is captured in the phrase "unity in diversity".

3. Step-by-step solution

• Option A, unity in diversity: Fits perfectly. Federalism holds the country together (unity) while respecting ethnic, cultural and regional differences (diversity).
• Option B, sectional development: Federalism can aid development of regions, but this is a benefit, not the underlying philosophy. Emphasising sections over the whole would work against national unity.
• Option C, review of sectionalism: This is not a recognised principle of federalism.
• Option D, colonial rule: The British colonial administration influenced how the system came about, but colonial rule is a historical factor, not a philosophy.

4. Answer The correct option is A. unity in diversity.

5. Exam tip When you see "philosophy" or "principle" of Nigerian federalism, think "unity in diversity". It also links to the national motto "Unity and Faith" and to the federal character principle, which both aim to hold a diverse country together.