History Paper 2 Aug. /Sept. 2018

Question 9

 

In what five ways did the colonial government improve the economy of Nigeria?

Observation

This was a popular question but was poorly answered by the candidates. Most candidates who answered this question understood its demand but many of them only listed the relevant points; thus score poor marks. The under listed points were expected to be outlined by candidates in order to get good marks.

 

  1. The mining sub-sector of the economy was improved by replacing the traditional methods of mining with mechanized and deep shaft mining.
  2. Agriculture was improved and expanded through the establishment of experimental farms in many communities. Extension services were provided,
  3. Establishment of Marketing Boards
  4. Banks were established to control the money supply in the country e.g. the Bank of British   West Africa and Barclays (colonial) Bank.
  5. With the demonetization of gold dust, British silver coins were introduced. The West African currency Board was set up in 1912 to control the issue of currency. It issued its first British West African Coins in 1916. Paper currency was introduced by the colonial government.
  6. Construction of motor able and feeder roads.
  7. Construction of railways.
  8. Harbours and ports were constructed to promote export and import trade.
  9. Construction of airports to facilitate movement of goods and services and international travels.
  10. Telephone and postal services were established to facilitate communication