HISTORY

WEEK 2
TOPIC: CENTRALIZED STATE
BY: MISS OMEJE NJIDEKA
 LESSON OBJECTIVES
At the end of the lesson, the students should be able to:
1.Explain the meaning of centralized state.
2.Discuss five characteristics of centralized state
3.Examine five advantages and five disadvantages of
centralized state
 MEANING OF CENTRALIZED STATE
Centralized state can be defined as one in which power or legal
authority is centralized or coordinated by political power at the
center.
OR
It is a form of government in which power is held by a single
authority. Examples of centralized states in pre-colonial Nigeria
include: Hausa states, kanem Bornu, Nupe kingdom, Oyo empire,
Benin kingdom, Niger Delta city states and Calabar, etc.
 CHARACTERISTICS OF CENTRALIZED
STATE

1. Centralization and no distribution of power.

2. Uniformity of law.
3. A tug between responsibility and despotism.
4. Organised political system.
5. Standing army
 ADVANTAGES OF CENTRALISED STATE

1. There is quick implementation of decisions.

2. There is a clear chain of command because everyone in the
society know who they report to.
3. They have a focused vision.
4. Improved quality of work
Note: you can read more from your textbook on page 118-
119.
 ASSIGNMENT

Put down four disadvantages of centralized states in your notebook to

be submitted after class next week.
 NEXT TOPIC

EXAMPLES OF CENTRALISED STATE: HAUSA LAND

AND THE HAUSA STATES.