The six factors that led to the growth of nationalism in Nigeria before 1945 are: (i)The formation of political parties e.g. Nigeria National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923, Nigerian Youth Movement in 1934 and N.C.N.C. in 1944.
(ii) The establishment of local press and newspapers contributed to the spread of nationalists movement in Nigeria e.g. West African Pilot, Daily News, Daily Times. The Comet, etc.
(iii) The formation of the West African Students' Union (WASU) in 1925.
(iv) The formation of youth movements helped the growth and spread of nationalism in Nigeria e.g. LYM.
(v) The National Congress of British West Africa (NCBWA) was founded in 1919 and was led by Joseph Casely Hayford. It was established for the purpose of redressing the evils of the Crown Colony system.
(vi) The Atlantic Charter of 1941 which emphasized the right of people to self determination.
(vii) Racial discrimination against Nigerians by the colonialists e.g. European Club, European hospitals, etc.
(viii) The colonial policy of indirect rule excluded the educated elite from governance.
(ix) influence of Western Education on the people of Nigeria.
(x) Activities of the Trade Unions e.g. Nigeria civil service union 1921, NUT 1931, etc.
(xi) Rise of urban centres.
(xii) Appointment and deposition of chiefs by the colonial masters.