Trace the constitutional evolution of federalism in Nigeria up to 1954

Explanation

Constitutional evolution of Federalism up to 1954 include:

(i) In 1914, Lord Lugard amalgamated the Southern and Northern Protectorates for easy administration.

(ii) Also in 1922, Clifford Constitution made the provision for a Legislative Council for the colony and Southern protectorate of Nigeria only.

(iii) The three provinces became known as three regions - Northern, Western and Eastern regions. This introduction came in 1946, by Arthur Richards in his constitution. Though regional assemblies were constituted, they had no legislative powers.

(iv) Legislative powers were given to regional assemblies, though on specific issues, with final approval from the central government. Macpherson Constitution brought these changes in 1951.

(v) Lyttleton constitution established a true federal structure in Nigeria in 1954. Powers were shared between central and regional governments with exclusive powers for the central government, concurrent for both governments and residual powers for the regions.