Reasons for introducing indirect rule in Nigeria - SS2 Government Lesson Note

The British introduced indirect rule in Nigeria for several reasons. One reason was to control the territory with minimal resources and manpower, as it was a large and diverse country with many different ethnic groups and languages. Another reason was to maintain stability by working with existing traditional institutions and leaders, rather than trying to impose a new system of governance.

Indirect rule also allowed the British to exploit the resources of the country, such as its mineral wealth, by relying on local elites to help with the administration and collection of taxes. Finally, the British believed that indirect rule would help to preserve local cultures and customs, which they saw as important for maintaining stability and loyalty among the local population.