A Re-Appraisal of the Impacts of Colonialism on the Traditional Practices of Selected Nigerian People

PhD Alexander C. Ugwukah
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PhD Alexander C. Ugwukah: History and International Studies, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2025, vol. 9, issue 15, 373-388

Abstract: This reappraisal examines the complexities of British colonialism in Nigeria, challenging simplistic narratives of economic and social exploitation of the people and their traditional practices. While acknowledging the devastating consequences of colonial rule, this study highlights the agency and resilience of Nigerian people in navigating the colonial encounter. British colonialism introduced modern infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems, which transformed Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape. However, these developments were often underpinned by coercive policies, cultural imperialism, and economic exploitation. Nigerians responded to colonialism in diverse ways, including resistance, collaboration, and creative adaptation. This reappraisal emphasizes the need to move beyond previous notions of colonizer and colonized, instead recognizing the complex, multifaceted nature of colonialism in Nigeria. By acknowledging both the benefits and drawbacks of colonial rule, the work developed a more nuanced understanding of Nigeria’s colonial past and its ongoing impact on the country’s development trajectory. Ultimately, this study aims to stimulate a more informed and balanced debate about the legacies of British colonialism in Nigeria.

Date: 2025
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