A Glimpse into Nigeria before Colonization.

Nigeria is home to diverse ethnic groups with riches in lot of minerals, natural resources and also gifted with talented hands. Before colonization by the whites societies were organized into kingdoms, chiefdoms, and village communities. For instance, Nok, Ife, Benin, and Kanem-Bornu thrived with distinct political systems and the governing body are called kings (Obas, Emirs, and Obis), councils of elders, and chiefs who made laws and resolved disputes.

Also, agriculture was the backbone of early Nigerian economies. People cultivated staple crops such as yam, millet, and cassava, while fishermen along rivers relied on abundant marine life. Livestock farming, including cattle rearing in the north, contributed to food security.

Trade was also a vital means of survival. The trade by barter system allowed different communities to exchange goods like salt, cloth, and iron tools.

Religion and spirituality were central to daily life. Nigerians worshipped various deities and ancestors, believing that spiritual forces influenced their well-being. Priests, diviners, and oracles played essential roles in guiding communities through rituals, sacrifices, and festivals. Societies like the Igbo practiced the concept of "Chi" (personal god), while the Yoruba worshipped gods like Sango, Ogun, and Ifa.

Naming ceremonies, initiation into adulthood, and marriage customs, reinforced social bonds. Festivals like the New Yam Festival among the Igbo and the Durbar Festival among northern groups showcased cultural pride and gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

Despite the absence of modern technology, early Nigerians were able to develop tools and techniques. The Nok people, were skilled in iron smelting, which led to the production of weapons and farming implements. Pottery, weaving, and wood carving were also highly developed industries.

Housing structures were designed using locally available materials like mud, clay, and thatched roofs. According to my research people live happily then and there was less evil too.

So why are we still lagging behind after 64 years of independent?

What do you think went wrong, colonization or bad leadership?