Theory question 109
NationalismSection B (answer two questions only from this section)
Discuss the contributions of the Nigerian Youth Movement to nationalism in Nigeria.
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Formed from the Lagos Youth Movement (1934, renamed 1936) by leaders such as Ernest Ikoli, H. O. Davis, Samuel Akinsanya, later Azikiwe and Awolowo.
First truly nationalist organisation with a national outlook and branches across Nigeria.
Opposed the inadequate Yaba Higher College and demanded better education.
Won the Lagos Legislative Council elections of 1938, ending NNDP dominance.
Published the Youth Charter (1938) demanding self-government and Africanisation.
Demanded better conditions for African civil servants and the end of discrimination.
Used newspapers (Daily Service) to awaken political awareness.
Trained leaders who later founded major parties (AG, NCNC).
It weakened after the 1941 Akinsanya–Ikoli crisis, which also exposed ethnic divisions.
Contributions with examples and dates.