Which constitution introduced the ministerial system into Nigeria political system?

Analyze the question: It asks which constitution first brought the ministerial system (Nigerians serving as ministers in the executive) into Nigeria's political system.

Concept: Nigeria's colonial-era constitutions each introduced key changes:

• Clifford (1922): Introduced elective principle (limited franchise in Lagos and Calabar).
• Richards (1946): Introduced regionalism, created Regional Houses of Assembly (the North's House of Chiefs), and gave Nigerians a say in legislative matters. There were no Nigerian ministers.
• Macpherson (1951): Introduced the ministerial system. Nigerians were appointed ministers (Councils of Ministers at the centre and in the regions), and it widened the role of political parties and indirect elections.
• Lyttleton (1954): Established a federal system, with a full ministerial system and the Prime Minister post (Premiers in regions), and made the Lagos a federal territory.
• Independence (1960) and Republican (1963): Brought independence and republican status respectively.

Solution: The Macpherson Constitution of 1951 is generally credited with introducing the ministerial system, as Nigerians were for the first time appointed to head ministries under the Council of Ministers. The Lyttleton Constitution later developed and strengthened it, but did not introduce it.

Answer: C. Macpherson

Tip: Link each constitution with a keyword:

• Clifford: elective principle
• Richards: regionalism
• Macpherson: ministerial system
• Lyttleton: federalism