Awolowo’s Federalism and the Long Road to Nigerian Nationhood

I visited Obafemi Awolowo’s home in Ikenne and reflected on his argument that Nigeria was not yet a nation in 1946, but a collection of distinct ethnic and cultural groups. His statement was not simply a rejection of Nigeria. It was a call to build a workable union through federalism. In Path to Nigerian Freedom, Awolowo argued that Nigeria’s diversity should be recognised rather than denied. He believed smaller, viable states could bring governance and development closer to the people. This thinking shaped the Action Group’s commitment to “Unity via Federalism” and influenced later debates over state creation. I argue that Nigeria has grown more connected through shared struggles, migration, marriage and national achievements. Yet genuine federalism remains essential if the country is to turn its diversity into strength and gradually deepen a common Nigerian identity.

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