The parts chiefs played in the British colonial administration in Nigeria:
(i) Maintenance of law and order: The chiefs assisted the colonial government in the maintenance of law and order
(ii) Motivation: The chiefs motivated the people to accept the colonial administration.
(iii) Preservation of the traditional system: Their involvement in the administration, helped in the preservation of the traditional system
(iv) Link: They were a link between the British authorities and the people.
(v) Took part in running the colonial administration: The Chiefs were involved in running the colonial administration.
(vi) Law-making: As members of the House of Chiefs, they took part in the law-making process.
(vii)Settlement of disputes: They took part in the settlement of disputes related to traditional laws and customs, e.g. marriage, land, etc.
(viii) Collection of rates and taxes: The chiefs also played a vital role in the collection of rates and taxes.
(ix)Use of forced labour: The British colonial administrators made use of forced labour organised by the chiefs.