Ethnicity, territorialism and self-determination: The case study of Nigeria

This study aims to show that the alteration of ethnic boundaries by European colonial countries in the creation of independent states in sub-Saharan Africa has affected the stability of these states and will continue to do so until the territorial integrity of the major ethnic groups is resolved. This study focuses on Nigeria and will trace its historical development from pre-colonial times (1850-1884) to the post-colonial period (1960-1995). Nigeria has over 110 million inhabitants and possesses vast natural resources, which are underutilized. This study explains why ethnic problems persist despite efforts by internal and external organizations to resolve the conflicts. This study will: (1) discuss the historic reasons for the ethnic conflict in Nigeria and (2) suggest that allowing ethnic self-determination and territorial integrity may provide a solution.