ACTIVE Retirement Club (ARC) members listened to a presentation on Tuesday 5th September called love, passion and betrayal which explored the origins and history of Nigeria.
The title was due in no small part to the romantic entanglements of the early European explorers and traders who settled there. Nigeria is the most populous black nation on the planet. It also has the second largest film industry after Hollywood and is also one of the main centres in Africa of technology and fashion. Among many dialects, the main languages are those of the Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo peoples. Evolution has also led to a Nigerian Pidgin which is an English-based creole language.
In the 15th century the Portuguese were the first Europeans to arrive in the area followed by the British. Trading in spices, firearms and slaves soon began and the Christian religion also became established. The British controlled the religious culture by training local people to spread Christianity by opening missionary schools.
During the pre-colonial period, Nigeria was dominated by several kingdoms or empires some of which were Islamist. Lagos was occupied by British Forces in 1851 and Nigeria became a British protectorate in 1901. British rule lasted until 1960 when the country was finally granted independence.
If you are thinking of joining ARC you can enjoy two club meetings for free before you decide. Membership costs £10 per month. To find out more please ring Mark on 01373 823826.
