Which of the following was a major achievement of nationalism in Nigeria?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks about a major achievement of nationalism in Nigeria. Nationalism here means the movement (roughly 1920s-1960) in which Nigerians organized to resist colonial rule and demand self-government.

Step 2: Explain the concept Nigerian nationalism was driven by early leaders and groups such as Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello. They worked through political parties (NCNC, Action Group, NPC), the press (e.g., the West African Pilot), and youth and labour movements (e.g., the Nigerian Youth Movement). Their main effects were:

• Awakening Nigerians to their political rights
• Uniting people of different ethnic groups against colonial rule
• Pushing for constitutional reforms (Richards 1946, Macpherson 1951, Lyttelton 1954)
• Leading to independence on 1 October 1960

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Economic independence: Incorrect. Independence in 1960 was political. The economy stayed largely dependent on foreign firms and export of raw materials.
• B. Political consciousness: Correct. Nationalism made Nigerians aware of their political rights and of the need for self-rule, which led to mass political participation and eventually independence.
• C. Cultural superiority: Incorrect. Nationalism promoted cultural pride, but not the idea of superiority.
• D. Social equality: Incorrect. Inequalities remained after independence, so this was not a major achievement.

Step 4: Answer The correct answer is B. Political consciousness.

Exam tip: For questions on nationalism, remember that the achievements are mainly political: awareness, unity, constitutional reforms, and independence. Be cautious of options that mention economic, cultural, or social "perfection," as these are usually distractors.