• Class: Primary 5
  • Term: 2nd Term
  • Week: 4
  • Age: 10 years
  • Duration: 40 minutes
  • Subject: History
  • Curriculum Theme: History
  • Previous Lesson: Origin Of Islam
  • Topic: Agents Of The Spread Of Islam In Nigeria
  • Content: Agents Of The Spread Of Islam In Nigeria, including their roles in introducing and spreading Islam in various regions of Nigeria.

Performance Objectives

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

  • Cognitive Domain: Identify the agents responsible for the spread of Islam in Nigeria.
  • Affective Domain: Appreciate the role of these agents in shaping Nigeria’s history and culture.
  • Psychomotor Domain: Write out the agents and their contributions.
  • Social Domain: Discuss the importance of peaceful cultural and religious integration in society.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:


Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

  • A large map of Nigeria
  • Pictures of Islamic scholars and merchants
  • Flashcards displaying key agents and their contributions
  • A chalkboard and chalk

Rationale for the Lesson

Understanding the agents of the spread of Islam in Nigeria helps pupils appreciate how religion and culture shaped our history and influenced our diverse society.


Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils are familiar with the origins of Islam and the significance of religion in Nigerian society.


Instructional Procedures

To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:

Content DevelopmentTimeTeaching MethodTeaching StrategyTeacher’s ActivityPupils’ ActivityLearning Point
Step 1: Introduction5 minsSet inductionQuestion-and-answerAsks pupils to recall what they learned about Islam.Respond by sharing prior knowledge.Links new topic to previous knowledge.
Step 2: Presentation10 minsLectureDiscussionExplains the agents of the spread of Islam (see below).Listen, ask questions, and take notes.Understands the agents and their roles.
Step 3: Explanation10 minsVisual aidsDemonstrationUses map and flashcards to illustrate regions/agents.Observe and identify agents on the map.Visualizes how Islam spread in Nigeria.
Step 4: Note-Taking5 minsGuided writingGroup activityGuides pupils to copy notes from the chalkboard.Copy the notes neatly into their books.Recalls key agents and their contributions.
Step 5: Evaluation5 minsOral questioningIndependent responseAsks questions to assess understanding.Answer questions individually.Confirms understanding of the lesson.
Step 6: Conclusion5 minsRecapReinforcementSummarizes key points and emphasizes cultural impact.Listen attentively and ask final questions.Recaps and solidifies the topic.

Lesson Content

Agents Of The Spread Of Islam In Nigeria

Islam is a religion that originated in the Arabian Peninsula and has spread to many parts of the world, including Nigeria. Several agents contributed to its introduction and spread in Nigeria. These include:

  1. Arab Merchants (7th Century):
    Arab traders from North Africa brought Islam to northern Nigeria through trade. They introduced Islamic teachings alongside goods like salt and textiles.
  2. Islamic Scholars (11th Century):
    Scholars such as Usman dan Fodio played a key role in spreading Islam through education, writing, and preaching.
  3. Missionary Movements (18th Century):
    Jihad movements, led by figures like Usman dan Fodio, promoted Islamic teachings and established Islamic states.
  4. Trade Networks (19th Century):
    Trans-Saharan trade routes helped spread Islam across northern Nigeria, as traders introduced Islamic practices to local communities.
  5. Local Leaders (Various Periods):
    Kings and emirs in regions like Kano and Sokoto adopted Islam and promoted it among their subjects, leading to its widespread acceptance.

Lesson Evaluation

To evaluate the learning, the teacher asks pupils to:

  1. Mention three agents responsible for the spread of Islam in Nigeria.
  2. Explain how trade contributed to the spread of Islam.
  3. Name one scholar and describe their role in spreading Islam.
  4. Discuss the role of local leaders in promoting Islam in Nigeria.
  5. Why is it important to understand the agents of cultural and religious influence?

Note for Teachers Using This Lesson Plan

Ensure pupils actively participate in the lesson by encouraging questions and discussions. Use visuals effectively to help them understand the concept. Happy teaching!