Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960. The independence movement in Nigeria was led by various nationalist leaders and groups, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Ahmadu Bello. These leaders played key roles in advocating for independence and negotiating with the British government for Nigeria's independence. Additionally, the efforts of the Nigerian people as a whole, through protests, demonstrations, and political activism, also contributed to the country's eventual independence.