Islam in Nigeria (Primary 5- History Lesson Note: Second Term, Week Four)

Week Four

Subject: History
Class: Primary Five
Week of the Second Term: 4th Week
Topic: Islam in Nigeria (continued)
Subtopic: Agents of the Spread of Islam in Nigeria

Instructional Objectives

At the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

1. Identify and list the various agents that contributed to the spread of Islam in Nigeria.
2. Explain the roles played by different agents in the introduction of Islam.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the spread of Islam through group discussions and presentations.

Entry Behaviour

Pupils should already know about the origins of Islam in Nigeria and its early history from previous lessons.

Instructional Materials

1. Spectrum Basic History for Primary School 5 textbook
2. Charts illustrating the different agents of the spread of Islam
3. Flashcards with names and roles of key agents involved in the spread of Islam

Reference Materials

• Olaniyi, R. O., & Suleiman, M. D. (2013). Spectrum Basic History for Primary School 5. West African Book Publishers Ltd, Lagos.
• Nwagu, E. E. (2017). Spectrum Basic History for Primary School 5. Metropolitan Publishers, Lagos.

Content

Agents of the Spread of Islam in Nigeria

Islam spread in Nigeria through several specific agents who played key roles in introducing and promoting the religion. 

1. Traders:
   • North African Muslim Traders: In the 11th century, traders from the northern regions, especially the Sahara, traveled to Nigeria, particularly to cities like Kano and Katsina. They traded goods such as gold, textiles, and salt.
   • Through their interactions, they introduced the local people to Islamic beliefs and practices. These traders often settled in the areas where they traded, establishing Muslim communities.
2. Islamic Scholars and Educators:
   • Madrassas: Islamic scholars established madrassas (Islamic schools) in major towns. For example, in Kano, scholars like Ibn Furtu taught students about the Quran and Islamic law.
   • These educational institutions played a crucial role in teaching the local population about Islam and the Arabic language, leading to a deeper understanding and acceptance of the faith.
3. Missionaries:
   • Missionary Efforts: Dedicated Muslim missionaries traveled to various parts of Nigeria, such as the Hausa and Fulani regions. They organized community prayers, taught about Islamic teachings, and participated in social activities to engage with the local population.
   • They held discussions and preached, inviting people to embrace Islam, which resulted in many conversions.
4. Political Leaders:
   • Usman dan Fodio: In the early 19th century, Usman dan Fodio led a jihad (struggle) against non-Muslim rulers, which resulted in the establishment of the Sokoto Caliphate. His leadership and military campaigns encouraged many people to convert to Islam.
   • Local kings and chiefs who converted to Islam also influenced their subjects to adopt the faith. For instance, after the jihad, many of the newly established emirates promoted Islam as the state religion.
5. Cultural Interactions:
   • Trade Routes and Festivals: The trade routes connecting northern Nigeria to the rest of West Africa facilitated cultural exchange. Markets and festivals served as platforms for the dissemination of Islamic beliefs.
   • As people interacted with Muslim traders and missionaries during these events, they became interested in learning more about Islam, leading to increased conversions.

Step 1: Introduction

Lesson Presentation (Step-by-Step Procedure)

Others removed.