September 12 2024 | State Media Britain's imperialism in Africa was a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that spanned several centuri...
September 12 2024 | State Media
Britain's imperialism in Africa was a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that spanned several centuries. Between 18th-19th centuries; Britain's interest in Africa grew, driven by the desire for resources, markets, and strategic locations. In 1884-1885, the Berlin Conference partitioned Africa among European powers, with Britain gaining control of a significant portion of the continent. In late 19th - early 20th centuries; Britain expanded its colonial empire in Africa, often using force to subjugate local populations.
Their major tools were:
1. Economic exploitation: Britain extracted Africa's natural resources, such as gold, diamonds, and cotton, often using forced labour.
2. Political control: Britain imposed its own systems of governance, laws, and administration, suppressing local cultures and institutions.
3. Cultural impact: British colonialism introduced Western values, education, and religion, which had a lasting impact on African societies.
At a point there was a resistance and rebellion: many African societies resisted British rule, leading to conflicts, rebellions, and ultimately, the struggle for independence.
Nigeria: Britain colonized Nigeria in 1914, exploiting its oil resources and imposing a system of indirect rule.
South Africa: Britain's colonization led to the displacement and marginalization of indigenous populations, contributing to the apartheid regime.
Egypt: Britain occupied Egypt from 1882 to 1922, controlling the Suez Canal and exploiting the country's resources.
Britain's imperialism in Africa has left a lasting legacy, with ongoing impacts on politics, economies, and cultures. Many African countries are still recovering from the effects of colonialism, including poverty, inequality, and political instability.
Britain has maintained a significant interest in Nigeria's resources, particularly oil, even after independence. Here are some examples:
1. Shell-BP (now Shell): Britain's Shell and BP (British Petroleum) have been major players in Nigeria's oil industry since the 1950s. Shell has been accused of environmental degradation and human rights abuses in the Niger Delta region.
2. Oil exploration and production: British companies like Shell, BP, and Total (in partnership with British firms) continue to dominate Nigeria's oil sector, controlling a significant portion of the country's oil reserves.
3. Mining: Britain's Rio Tinto and other British firms have interests in Nigeria's mining sector, including iron ore, coal, and gold.
4. Energy infrastructure: British companies have been involved in developing Nigeria's energy infrastructure, including power generation and transmission projects.
5. Financial interests: Britain's financial institutions, such as the City of London, have been accused of facilitating corruption and money laundering related to Nigeria's oil wealth.
6. Trade agreements: Britain has negotiated trade agreements with Nigeria, including the UK-Nigeria Trade Agreement (2020), which aims to increase trade and investment between the two countries.
Britain's involvement in Nigeria's resources has contributed to its economic woes, it has also raised concerns about:
• Exploitation and environmental degradation.
• Unequal distribution of wealth and benefits
• Corruption and lack of transparency
• Dependence on foreign capital and expertise
Nigeria has been struggling to increase its control over its resources and develop local capacity, but Britain's historical and ongoing involvement remains hugely significant. The demand for Nigeria youths to be recruited into British Army is the most nauseating thing to read. How can you demand for the youths of a country you have impoverished to join your Army and fight your enemies when you are our first enemy?
Britain has over the years abandoned her citizen Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in Nigeria dungeon for seeking the freedom of his people, the indigenous people of Biafra. Britain has looked the other way even as terrorists ravage cities and communities in Nigeria. Britain has never bothered to check the menace. It is therefore shared wickedness and stupidity for any Nigeria youth to listen to their cry for assistance today. Let them face their troubles and leave Nigeria out of it.
Written by:
FaFa Maintain
For: Biafra State Media
Edited by:
Chimdi E
For: Biafra State Media
Published by:
Chibuike Nebeokike
For: Biafra State Media
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