Why did many Nigerians migrate for work during British colonial rule?

During British colonial rule, significant shifts in the Nigerian economy and social structure prompted widespread internal migration. As the colonial administration transitioned the economy toward the export of cash crops—such as cacao and peanuts—many Nigerians were compelled to migrate to work as tenant farmers in areas where these lucrative crops were grown.1

Additionally, the introduction of Western education and new skills created a demand for labor in urban centers. Consequently, many individuals migrated to cities to work as wage earners, traders, and artisans. This movement was part of a broader transformation under colonial rule, which included the development of new forms of transportation, communication, and a money-based economy. These changes, while facilitating economic activity, also contributed to regional disparities and social dislocation as people sought new opportunities outside their home regions.1