Observation

A very popular question which asked for the positive effects of Christian missionary activities in Nigeria in the 19th Century. Most candidates had something right to state in the question. However, they found it difficult to explain and elaborate. In order to get good grade, candidates were expected to highlight the following points.

(i) Christian missionaries converted people to Christianity.
(ii) They built churches and trained indigenous priests.
(iii) They preached against inhuman practices which generally led to their abolition in many areas.
(iv) They also introduced western education.
(v) They establish vocational training centres.
(vi) Health centres were built.
(vii) They trained health workers.
(viii) Reduction of indigenous languages into writing.
(ix) Translation of the bible into indigenous languages.
(x) Introduction of new crops.
(xi) Establishment of experimental farms.
(xii) They supported the abolition of slavery and slave trade.
(xiii) They also encouraged the legitimate trade.
(xiv) The education they provided unconsciously prepared some Nigerians for leadership role.
(xv) Introduction of new architecture.