Observation

 

This question was less popular among the candidates in comparism with other questions in the Section A. A large percentage of candidates performed below average in this question. In the (a) part, candidates performed credibly well as they were able to highlight the significance of nationalism to the political development of the country. The marking scheme was generous thus; this gave candidates the opportunity to score the maximum mark obtainable in this part. The challenge candidates encountered was in the (b) part as they could barely list out the achievements of Kwame Nkruma. Points expected of candidates include;

a. Significance of nationalism to the political development of Nigeria

1. It arouses the sense of selflessness in people towards their nation.
2. It creates a sense of allegiance to one’s nation.
3. It assists in maintaining/reinforcing national values.
4. It promotes national development plans and programmes.
5. It guarantees self-rule/self determination/independence.
6. It promotes national self-reliance.
7. It mobilizes citizens for national unity/it promotes sense of oneness.
8. It promotes good and responsible governance.
9. It provides role models for leadership training/political mentorship.

b. Nationalistic roles of Kwame Nkrumah.

1. He mobilized Ghanaians to oppose oppressive colonial policies.
2. He formed and led Convention People’s Party (CPP).
3. He participated actively in pre-independence constitutional conferences.
4. He led Ghana to gain independence from British.
5. He suffered incarceration for agitating for self rule in Ghana.
6. He was actively involved in the formation of organization of African Union (OAU) and Pan-African movement.
7. His nationalistic writings such as Pan-Africanism promoted unity among Africans at home and in Diasporas.
8. He established newspaper in pre-independence Ghana to promote nationalist activities.
9. His regime of government carried out massive infrastructural development in Ghana.
10. His regime of government initiated and pursued African centered foreign policy.
11. His nationalistic activities in Ghana became an inspiration for sister British colonial west Africa nationalists.
12. He became the first prime minister of independence Ghana.