Origin and Nature Of African Nationalism

Before the spread of  modern  nationalism in Africa in the

20th century, we had in the 19th century exponent of African Nationalism who were 

indigenous rulers. These people were referred to as traditional nationalist who were

bent on safeguarding our territories from colonial incursion.Leaders like Nana of Itsekiri 

and Jaja of Opobo protested every attempt made by the colonialists to dispossess them of

their territories and kingdoms. modern African nationalism was ignited in Africa as a result

of activities of Europeans in Africa through colonialism and the pillage of resource of the 

African Continent the subsequent quest for freedom in many African countries therefore gave

rise to AFRICAN NATIONALISM. "This was the period in which many Africans, 

particularly Nigerians, had received some education that availed them opportunity to fully

 appreciate the negative impact of colonialism. With education and exposure, Africans 

were better equipped to fight colonialism."

                  African Nationalism is hinged on the democratic principles that people should 

form their own constitution and choose their own government. Traditional African nationalism

led naturally to the idea of national self determination. This means that African nations should

determine their own political status rather than have it imposed on them. By the early 20th 

century therefore, African nationalism had become a welcome phenomenon in all parts of 

Africa. Nationalism manifested itself in various forms. In the words of late Dr. Nnamdi

Azikiwe, a front line African nationalist from Nigeria, Nigeria got her independence on a 

platter of gold. In other countries like Kenya, Algeria etc, the nationalist struggle for self

determination was bloody.