Q. What were the major social and economic changes that occurred in Nigeria during the 20th century?

During the 20th century, Nigeria underwent significant social and economic changes. The country gained independence from British colonial rule in 1960, marking a major turning point. The discovery of oil in 1956 transformed the economy, with oil exports becoming the main source of revenue. Urbanization increased, and cities like Lagos and Ibadan experienced rapid growth. Education also expanded, with more Nigerians accessing Western-style education. The civil war from 1967 to 1970 had a profound impact on the country, leading to a period of reconstruction and economic instability. The oil boom of the 1970s brought wealth, but also created economic inequality and corruption. By the end of the century, Nigeria was facing challenges like poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. Despite these challenges, the country made progress in areas like infrastructure development and cultural expression. Overall, the 20th century was a time of significant transformation and growth for Nigeria.