The ultimate goal of the nationalists was to

Analyze the question The question asks about the ultimate (final, overriding) goal of Nigerian and African nationalists during the colonial period. Nationalists were people and groups such as Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, and Kwame Nkrumah, who opposed colonial rule.

Explain the concept Nationalism in Nigeria and West Africa was a movement against colonial rule. Nationalists used many tools along the way:

• Newspapers and the press (e.g., West African Pilot)
• Political parties (NCNC, AG, NPC)
• Youth movements (Nigerian Youth Movement)
• Education and cultural associations
• Constitutional agitation, protests, and strikes

These were all means. The end they were working toward was self-rule.

Solution: checking each option

• A. Secure political independence: Correct. Every other activity was meant to end colonial control and bring self-government. Nigeria got this on 1st October 1960.
• B. Encourage western education: Education was a tool and a by-product, not the final aim. Missionaries and the colonial government were the main promoters of Western education.
• C. Promote African unity: This was the aim of Pan-Africanism, and it came as a later goal (e.g., the OAU in 1963). It was not the ultimate goal of the nationalists.
• D. Promote African education: Again, this was a means, not the final goal.

Answer: A. Secure political independence

Tip: In JAMB Government questions, watch for the word "ultimate" or "main." Ask yourself: "Is this option a tool or the end result?" For nationalism, the end result is always independence or self-government. Education, the press, and parties were the tools.