Class: Primary 6
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 2
Average Age: 11 years
Duration: 40 minutes
Subject: History
Curriculum Theme: History
Previous Lesson: First lesson
Topic: Military Heads of State in Nigeria – Major General Aguiyi Ironsi
Content/Learning Area: Military Heads of State, Major General Aguiyi Ironsi 1966 to July 1966.
Performance Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Cognitive Domain: Define Military Heads of State, describe the life of Major General Aguiyi Ironsi, mention key information about him, and list the date/period of his rule.
- Affective Domain: Discuss the impact of Aguiyi Ironsi’s leadership on Nigeria’s governance and list his key achievements.
- Psychomotor Domain: Identify Major General Aguiyi Ironsi from pictures.
- Social Domain: Appreciate the role of Aguiyi Ironsi’s leadership and governance.
Instructional Materials
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will use the following materials:
- Picture charts of Nigerian Military Heads of State
- A timeline of Nigerian military rule
- A short video clip on Major General Aguiyi Ironsi’s tenure
- Flashcards with key facts about Aguiyi Ironsi
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- Nigerian 9 – Years Basic Education Curriculum
- Abuja Educational Resource Centre Scheme of Work
- NAPPS National Unified Scheme of Work
- Relevant Textbooks
Rationale for the Lesson
Understanding Aguiyi Ironsi’s leadership helps pupils grasp Nigeria’s military history and the impact of governance transitions on national development.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils have previously learned about military rule in Nigeria and can identify features of military governments.
Lesson Content
Military Heads of State in Nigeria
A Military Head of State is a national leader who assumes power through a military coup, rather than democratic elections. Such leaders are usually senior military officers who take control of the government, often during times of national crisis or political unrest. Nigeria experienced several military regimes from 1966 to 1999.
List of Nigerian Military Heads of State
- Major General Johnson Aguiyi Ironsi (1966)
- General Yakubu Gowon (1966–1975)
- General Murtala Mohammed (1975–1976)
- General Olusegun Obasanjo (1976–1979)
- Major General Muhammadu Buhari (1983–1985)
- General Ibrahim Babangida (1985–1993)
- General Sani Abacha (1993–1998)
- General Abdulsalami Abubakar (1998–1999)
Biography of Major General Aguiyi Ironsi
Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi Ironsi was born on March 3, 1924, in Umuahia, present-day Abia State. He joined the Nigerian Army in 1942 and trained in the UK. His discipline and leadership skills earned him rapid promotions through the ranks.
Rise to Power
By 1965, Ironsi had become the General Officer Commanding the Nigerian Army. After the January 15, 1966 coup, in which several top political leaders were killed, Ironsi was appointed Head of State on January 17, 1966.
Reforms and Governance
Ironsi introduced Decree No. 34, which sought to unify Nigeria by replacing the federal system with a unitary system. This move, though well-intended to strengthen national unity, was controversial and seen by many, especially in the North, as an attempt to centralize power.
Assassination and Legacy
On July 29, 1966, Ironsi was killed in a counter-coup by Northern officers. He was assassinated alongside his host, Colonel Adekunle Fajuyi. His short rule is remembered for its bold attempts at reform and for sparking debates on governance structure in Nigeria.
Teaching Methods
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following methods: Discussion, Lecture, Storytelling, Explanation, Visual Aids, Group Work
Instructional Procedures
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:
| Content Development | Time | Teaching Skills | Teacher’s Activity | Pupils’ Activity | Learning Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1: Introduction | 5 mins | Set Induction | The teacher reviews the previous lesson on military rule, asks pupils questions about what they remember, and displays a photo of Aguiyi Ironsi to generate curiosity. | Pupils answer questions and observe the photo. | Pupils are mentally prepared for the new topic. |
| Step 2: Meaning of Military Heads of State | 5 mins | Explanation | The teacher explains who a Military Head of State is and how they come into power. | Pupils listen attentively and ask questions. | Understanding of the concept of military leadership. |
| Step 3: Biography of Aguiyi Ironsi | 10 mins | Storytelling | The teacher narrates Ironsi’s early life, education, and military career using a timeline and flashcards. | Pupils follow the story and answer guided questions. | Pupils learn about Ironsi’s background and career. |
| Step 4: Reforms and Downfall | 10 mins | Discussion | The teacher discusses Ironsi’s Decree No. 34, reasons for its controversy, and his assassination using a short video. | Pupils engage in discussion and share opinions. | Understanding the impact and consequences of Ironsi’s leadership. |
| Note Taking | 3 mins | Writing | The teacher dictates key points for pupils to write down. | Pupils write in their notebooks. | Retention of major lesson points. |
| Evaluation | 5 mins | Questioning | The teacher asks review questions based on the objectives. | Pupils answer questions orally. | Assessment of understanding. |
| Closure | 2 mins | Instructional, Cognitive | The teacher summarizes the lesson, highlights key takeaways, and links the lesson to the next topic. | Pupils reflect and ask final questions. | Consolidation of knowledge and transition. |
Lesson Keywords
- Military Head of State – A leader who takes over government through a coup
- Decree – An official order issued by a military ruler
- Unitary System – A form of government where power is centralized
- Counter-Coup – A second coup aimed at reversing the first
Lesson Evaluation
- Who was Major General Aguiyi Ironsi?
- When did he become Head of State?
- Mention one reform introduced by Aguiyi Ironsi.
- What led to his assassination?
Assignment/Homework
Write a short biography of Major General Aguiyi Ironsi and include one of his major reforms.
Differentiation
- For slower learners: Use visual aids and repeat key concepts for clarity.
- For advanced learners: Encourage further research on other military rulers.
- For visual/auditory/kinesthetic learners: Use pictures, storytelling, video clips, and timeline charts.
Note for Teachers
Ensure to clarify the difference between federal and unitary systems of government. Reinforce learning with visual support and allow pupils to express thoughts during discussion time.