Neocolonialism and Underdevelopment in Nigeria
Olaitan Idayat Lawal
Department of History, Ahmadu Bello University – Nigeria.
Email: Princessidayat@gmail.com
Abstract
Nigeria gained independence, but like many other underdeveloped third world countries, has continued to struggle with corruption, and political instability in the postcolonial era. Despite gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1960, and numerous efforts being made by successive Nigerian leaders to develop their countries, the post-independence Nigerian elite inherited a weak and fragmented state. This is plagued by divisions. The country’s ruling elite have become synonymous with corruption using political power to amass wealth and perpetuate their pseudo- aristocracy. This has caused military coups, ethnic tensions, economic crises, and social inequality. In recent years, Nigeria’s oligarchy has adopted neoliberal policies that have exacerbated poverty and exposed the country to further exploitation. The privatization of the economy,de regularizationof keysectorsofthe economy,and reduced government intervention an impact of neocolonial policies has only served to benefit foreign investors and business magnates. This paper thus highlights that Nigeria, though has moved from the shackles of colonialism, is still in the murky waters of neocolonialism and this new imperialism, pervasive as it seems, has entrapped Nigeria into the cold grip of Underdevelopment. This paper explores the impact of neocolonialism on Nigerian s postcolonial trajectory, and argues that the legacy of colonialism and the persistence of global power imbalances have made it challenging for postcolonial countries like Nigeria to achieve true independence and self-determination. By delving into these critical aspects, the paper maintains that Neocolonialism can be seen as a method of control for the reproduction of dependency and the inherent structural inequality, and exploitation. The local bourgeoisie closely linked with foreign interest is crucial to the synergy between neocolonialism and Underdevelopment in Nigeria.
Introduction
Neo-colonialism, according to many writers, is viewed as the survival of colonial state in an ex-colony. Nigeria which has been bedevilled with poverty, genocide and weak political and socio-economic systems, raises questions about why a country with so much resources remain underdeveloped. Many Africa nationalists and critics of colonialism argue that Nigeria along with Africa as a whole is not truly independent. They believe that independence is only complete with economic independence as such Nigeria is said to be in the era of neo-colonialism as after the attainment of independence in Nigeria, most Africa countries barely manage to exist and others close to collapse, scholars’ debate whether the source of Nigeria problem is due to the countries neo-colonial experience or inherent inadequacies of the people. neo-colonialism theorist, including notable figures like Nkwame Nkrumah, contend that Africa’s underdevelopment which include Nigeria underdevelopment, is a direct consequence of this phenomenon. They argue that even after formal colonial rule ended,the thirdworld continues to face indirect oppression perpetuated by neo-colonial forces.