The Constitutional Conference of 1953 was a significant event in Nigeria’s history that aimed to address the growing demand for self-governance and constitutional reforms. It was held in Lagos, Nigeria, and was a crucial step towards Nigeria’s eventual independence.
The conference was organized by the British colonial administration in response to increasing nationalist movements and demands for greater self-rule. Its primary objective was to discuss and negotiate constitutional reforms that would pave the way for a more representative and autonomous government in Nigeria.
Key points and outcomes of the Constitutional Conference of 1953 include:

1. Macpherson Constitution: The conference led to the formulation of the Macpherson Constitution of 1951, which introduced significant reforms in Nigeria’s political structure. It expanded regional representation and gave Nigerians a larger role in the governance of their regions.
2. Regional Autonomy: The conference focused on the issue of regional autonomy, with discussions centered around the allocation of powers and resources between the central government and regional governments. The conference affirmed the principle of regional self-government, granting significant powers to the regional authorities.
3. Fiscal Federalism: The issue of fiscal federalism, particularly the distribution of revenues between the central government and regional governments, was a key topic of discussion. The conference established the principle of revenue allocation to ensure a fair distribution of resources among the different regions.
4. Formation of Political Parties: The conference also paved the way for the formation of political parties in Nigeria. Political leaders and representatives from different regions used the conference as an opportunity to articulate their political ideologies and establish political organizations that would later play a significant role in Nigeria’s political landscape.
5. Path to Independence: The Constitutional Conference of 1953 marked an important step towards Nigeria’s eventual independence from British colonial rule. It provided a platform for Nigerian leaders to voice their demands for self-rule and greater autonomy, setting the stage for subsequent negotiations and constitutional developments that would lead to Nigeria’s independence in 1960.

Overall, the Constitutional Conference of 1953 was a critical milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards self-governance and independence. It allowed Nigerian leaders to participate in shaping the country’s political landscape and laid the foundation for subsequent constitutional reforms that would lead to the birth of an independent Nigeria.