Government Exam Questions for SS3 First Term with Answers

You’re welcome to our school exams series where we provide you with termly examination questions in different subjects. In today’s post, we will focus on Government exam questions. We will cover Government exam questions for SS3 First term with answers. This means that we’ll be providing you with answers to the questions at the end. Also, you will get a few success tips on how to pass Government examinations with flying colors. Remember to use the comments sections if you have questions, and don’t forget to join our Free Online Tutorial Classes on YouTube. (Subscribe to the Channel)

Introduction to Government as a School Subject

Before we venture into Past Government Exam Questions for SS3 First term, here’s a brief introduction to the subject:

Government is one of the core subjects in the arts and social science departments of secondary schools. It is the study of how a state or society is organized, how it is governed, and how power and authority are exercised. Through the study of Government, students learn about political institutions, the constitution, democracy, leadership, and the relationship between citizens and the state.

The subject helps students understand the structure and functions of government at local, national, and international levels. It also exposes them to political ideas, human rights, and the responsibilities of citizenship.

By studying Government, students develop critical thinking, civic awareness, and a better appreciation of how political decisions affect their daily lives. Ultimately, the subject prepares learners to become responsible citizens and active participants in the democratic process.

Government Exam Questions for SS3 First Term

Government Exam Questions for SS3 First Term are divided into two sections:

• Section A
• Section B

The first section, namely, Section A is the objective test, and students are expected to attempt all questions in the section. Section B is the theory part, and students are expected to follow specific instruction and answer the required number of questions.

Note that what you have below are SS3 Government First Term Exam Past Questions made available to assist students in their revision for 1st term examinations and also teachers in structuring standard examinations.

SECTION A: Objectives

Instruction: Answer all questions in this section by choosing from the options lettered A—D. Each question carries equal marks.

1. The primary objective of the United Nations Organization (UNO) is to
A. stop aggression
B. maintain world peace
C. help poor countries
D. promote sports globally

2. Which of the following best describes Nigeria’s foreign policy since independence?
A. Africa as the centrepiece
B. Support for the Eastern bloc
C. Economic isolationism
D. Total dependence on the West

3. The headquarters of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is located in
A. Lome        B. Accra
C. Abuja        D. Banjul

4. The use of the veto power in the United Nations is exercised only by
A. Trusteeship Council
B. Security Council
C. Economic and Social Council
D. General Assembly

5. The organ of the United Nations responsible for maintaining international peace and security is the
A. General Assembly
B. Security Council
C. Secretariat
D. Trusteeship Council

6. One major aim of the African Union (AU) is to
A. distribute weapons among member states
B. promote unity and cooperation among African countries
C. establish colonies in Africa
D. support foreign domination of Africa

7. The headquarters of the ECOWAS Fund for Cooperation, Compensation and Development is in
A. Dakar        B. Lome
C. Abuja        D. Accra

8. The first West African to become Secretary-General of the Commonwealth was
A. Agboola Gambari
B. Emeka Anyaoku
C. Arnold Smith
D. Shridath Ramphal

9. Which of the following was a member of the Monrovia Group?
A. Niger         B. Liberia
C. Kenya        D. Chad

10. The international court of justice is located in
A. Paris          B. The Hague
C. Geneva      D. New York

11. A representative of one Commonwealth country in another is called a
A. High Commissioner
B. Ambassador
C. Consul
D. Envoy

12. Which of the following organizations succeeded the Organization of African Unity (OAU)?
A. African Economic Council
B. African Union (AU)
C. African Peace Forum
D. African Continental Council

13. Which of these countries was not a permanent member of the UN Security Council at its formation?
A. Britain         B. France
C. Germany     D. China

14. The organ of the United Nations that coordinates its social and economic activities is the
A. Security Council
B. Economic and Social Council
C. General Assembly
D. Secretariat

15. The highest decision-making organ of the African Union is the
A. Council of Ministers
B. Executive Council
C. Assembly of Heads of State and Government
D. Secretariat

16. Which of the following is not a function of the General Assembly of the United Nations?
A. Discussing global issues
B. Electing the Secretary-General
C. Approving the budget
D. Settling disputes among member states

17. The Commonwealth of Nations was originally made up of
A. countries formerly under the British Empire
B. former Portuguese colonies in Africa
C. independent Spanish-speaking countries
D. members of the European Union

18. The organ of the OAU established to settle disputes among member states was the
A. Council of Ministers
B. Assembly of Heads of State and Government
C. Commission of Mediation, Conciliation and Arbitration
D. Tribunal of the Community

19. The United Nations Organization has how many principal organs?
A. Four       B. Five
C. Six          D. Seven

20. The policy of assimilation was replaced by the French policy of
A. Indirect rule
B. Association
C. Integration
D. Federation

21. One of the factors that influence a country’s foreign policy is
A. national interest
B. population size
C. traditional titles
D. climate

22. The first African country to gain independence was
A. Nigeria       B. Ghana
C. Kenya         D. Senegal

23. Which of the following is not a feature of a military regime?
A. Rule by decrees
B. Suspension of constitution
C. Respect for human rights
D. Curtailment of political freedom

24. A major criticism against pre-independence political parties in West Africa was that they were
A. not national in outlook
B. financially stable
C. united across borders
D. inclusive of all tribes

25. The appointment of staff in the United Nations is carried out by the
A. Security Council
B. International Court of Justice
C. Secretariat
D. Trusteeship Council

26. The Commonwealth promotes cooperation mainly in the area of
A. sports, education and democracy
B. military alliances
C. trade restrictions
D. cultural domination

27. Which of these was a demand of the National Congress of British West Africa?
A. Appointment of chiefs by colonial officials
B. Deportation of traditional rulers
C. Election of Africans into legislative councils
D. Reduction of taxes

28. One of the functions of ECOWAS is to
A. promote economic integration among member states
B. establish African military command
C. conduct elections in member countries
D. enforce foreign policies

29. Which of these is a challenge facing the Commonwealth of Nations today?
A. Economic inequality among members
B. Equal voting rights
C. Disarmament
D. Religious unity

30. One of the major defects of foreign policy in West Africa is
A. poor leadership
B. large population
C. low literacy rate
D. too many political parties

31. The Non-Aligned Movement was formed to
A. support Western military alliances
B. remain neutral in the Cold War
C. promote colonization
D. oppose the United Nations

32. The Secretary-General of the United Nations is appointed for a period of
A. 3 years       B. 4 years
C. 5 years       D. 6 years

33. One of the advantages of international relations is
A. peaceful settlement of disputes
B. population explosion
C. annexation of territories
D. religious expansion

34. The Council of Ministers of the OAU was composed mainly of
A. foreign ministers
B. finance ministers
C. defense ministers
D. education ministers

35. Which of the following is not an organ of the African Union?
A. Pan-African Parliament
B. Executive Council
C. Security Council
D. Court of Justice

36. The Pan-African Movement was formed to
A. promote unity among people of African descent
B. increase colonial rule
C. oppose African independence
D. establish European colonies

37. One reason for military intervention in politics in West Africa is
A. corruption and mismanagement
B. political stability
C. constitutional reform
D. strong civilian rule

38. The United Nations Day is celebrated on
A. October 24
B. June 12
C. September 21
D. December 10

39. Which of the following countries is a member of ECOWAS?
A. Kenya       B. Burkina Faso
C. Egypt        D. Morocco

40. Which of these organizations was formed in 1963?
A. African Union
B. Organization of African Unity
C. United Nations
D. ECOWAS

41. One of the reasons for the establishment of the Commonwealth was to
A. strengthen ties among former British colonies
B. expand British territories
C. enforce colonial rule
D. dominate African economies

42. The OAU was established in
A. 1960        B. 1961
C. 1963        D. 1965

43. Which of the following is an achievement of the OAU?
A. Support for African liberation movements
B. Promotion of colonial policies
C. Encouragement of foreign dominance
D. Division of Africa

44. Which of the following is the most powerful organ of the United Nations?
A. Trusteeship Council
B. Security Council
C. Secretariat
D. General Assembly

45. The OAU Charter was signed in
A. Accra          B. Addis Ababa
C. Nairobi       D. Lagos

46. A major principle of Nigeria’s foreign policy is
A. non-alignment
B. colonialism
C. neutrality
D. isolation

47. The main purpose of the Non-Aligned Movement is to
A. promote peace and independence among developing nations
B. support Western military powers
C. encourage economic domination
D. abolish democracy

48. One of the organs of the United Nations that no longer functions is the
A. Trusteeship Council
B. Economic and Social Council
C. General Assembly
D. Security Council

49. The African Union officially replaced the OAU in the year
A. 1999         B. 2000
C. 2001         D. 2002

50. The Commonwealth Games are held every
A. 3 years        B. 4 years
C. 5 years        D. 6 years

51. The principal objective of ECOWAS is to
A. achieve regional economic integration
B. promote foreign military alliances
C. enforce European trade policies
D. protect colonial interests

52. A major weakness of the OAU was
A. lack of enforcement power
B. excessive funding
C. small membership
D. domination by Europe

53. The current Secretary-General of the United Nations is appointed by
A. the General Assembly on recommendation of the Security Council
B. the Security Council alone
C. the Trusteeship Council
D. the International Court of Justice

54. One of the achievements of the Commonwealth is
A. promotion of education and democracy
B. control of African economies
C. establishment of colonies
D. political instability

55. The highest judicial organ of the United Nations is the
A. International Court of Justice
B. General Assembly
C. Security Council
D. Economic Council

56. Nigeria became a member of the United Nations in
A. 1959         B. 1960
C. 1963         D. 1966

57. A major reason for the formation of ECOWAS was to
A. encourage economic cooperation and integration
B. promote military expansion
C. dominate smaller nations
D. support colonial policies

58. The term “foreign policy” refers to
A. a country’s relations with other nations
B. laws guiding local governments
C. internal security policies
D. trade among citizens

59. One of the major problems of ECOWAS is
A. political instability among member states
B. overpopulation
C. lack of education
D. overdependence on agriculture

60. Which of the following best describes the United Nations?
A. An international organization for promoting global peace and cooperation
B. A military alliance
C. A colonial organization
D. A trade union for nations

SECTION B: Essay

INSTRUCTION – Answer all five (5) questions in this section.

1. (a) Define foreign policy.
(b) State and explain five principles that guide Nigeria’s foreign policy.
(c) Discuss three major objectives of Nigeria’s foreign policy since independence.

2. (a) Highlight five reasons why Africa is regarded as the centrepiece of Nigeria’s foreign policy.
(b) Explain five ways Nigeria has demonstrated this policy in practice.

3. (a) State five aims and objectives of the Non-Aligned Movement.
(b) Discuss five achievements of the Non-Aligned Movement.

4. (a) State five functions of the General Assembly of the United Nations Organization (UNO).
(b) Mention five achievements of the UNO.
(c) List the six principal organs of the UNO.

5. (a) Explain five problems facing the Commonwealth of Nations today.
(b) Highlight five achievements of the Commonwealth.
(c) Mention five member countries of the Commonwealth.

6. (a) Outline five achievements of the Organization of African Unity (OAU).
(b) Identify five problems that led to its transformation into the African Union (AU).
(c) Mention three organs of the AU.

7. (a) Discuss five causes of military intervention in West African politics.
(b) State five effects of military rule on political development in the sub-region.

Remember to use the comments sections if you have questions, and don’t forget to join our Free Online Tutorial Classes on YouTube. (Subscribe to the Channel)

Answers to Government Exam Questions for SS3 First Term

Answers to Section A (Objective Test)

The following table gives the correct answers to the objective section of Government exam questions for SS3 First term. If you are using a mobile device, hold the table and scroll to the right or left for a complete view.

So here you have the answers to the objective section of Government Exam Questions for SS3 First term. Use the comments section to let me know if you have any questions you would want me to clarify or discuss further.

Read Also: Government Exam Questions for SS2 First Term

Answers to Section B (Theory)

Answers to Question 1.

(a) Foreign policy refers to the strategies and decisions adopted by a country in its dealings and relations with other nations. It is the plan that guides a nation’s external affairs in pursuit of its national interests.

(b) The five principles that guide Nigeria’s foreign policy include:

1. Non-alignment: Nigeria does not align with any major power bloc but maintains friendly relations with all countries.
2. African solidarity: Nigeria places Africa at the center of her foreign policy and promotes unity among African nations.
3. Peaceful coexistence: Nigeria upholds mutual respect for sovereignty and non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs.
4. Respect for territorial integrity: Nigeria recognizes and respects the borders and independence of other nations.
5. Promotion of international peace and cooperation: Nigeria supports global peace initiatives and participates in international organizations.

(c) The major objectives of Nigeria’s foreign policy since independence are:

1. To promote African unity and independence.
2. Tö protect Nigeria’s national interests abroad.
3. To contribute to world peace and international understanding.

Answers to Question 2.

(a) Africa is regarded as the centrepiece of Nigeria’s foreign policy for the following reasons:

1. Geographical and historical ties with other African nations.
2. Shared colonial experiences and struggles for independence.
3. Desire to promote African unity and development.
4. Commitment to the eradication of racial discrimination and apartheid.
5. Belief that Nigeria’s destiny is tied to Africa’s progress and stability.

(b) Nigeria has demonstrated this policy through:

1. Active participation in the formation of the OAU (now AU).
2. Financial and military support for liberation movements in Africa.
3. Contribution of troops to peacekeeping operations in countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone.
4. Hosting of African summits and conferences.
5. Provision of scholarships and technical aid to other African countries.

Answers to Question 3.

(a) Aims and objectives of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) include:

1. To maintain independence from power blocs during the Cold War.
2. To promote world peace and cooperation among nations.
3. Tô support national liberation movements and anti-colonial struggles.
4. To encourage economic development among member countries.
5. To ensure equality and justice in international relations.

(b) Achievements of the Non-Aligned Movement include:

1. Reduced tensions between rival power blocs during the Cold War.
2. Support for independence of many developing nations.
3. Encouragement of economic cooperation among developing countries.
4. Increased voice and influence of developing countries in international affairs.
5. Promotion of peace and non-interference in domestic affairs of member states.

Answers to Question 4.

(a) Functions of the General Assembly of the United Nations include:

1. Discussing international issues affecting world peace and security.
2. Approving the UN budget and financial matters.
3. Electing non-permanent members of the Security Council.
4. Making recommendations on international cooperation and law.
5. Appointing the Secretary-General on the recommendation of the Security Council.

(b) Achievements of the UNO:

1. Maintenance of world peace through peacekeeping operations.
2. Promotion of human rights through various conventions and declarations.
3. Provision of humanitarian aid and disaster relief.
4. Encouragement of international cooperation in education, science, and culture.
5. Support for decolonization and self-determination of nations.

(c) The six principal organs of the UNO are:

1. The General Assembly
2. The Security Council
3. The International Court of Justice
4. The Secretariat
5. The Economic and Social Council
6. The Trusteeship Council

Answers to Question 5.

(a) Problems facing the Commonwealth of Nations include:

1. Economic inequality among member states.
2. Differences in political systems and ideologies.
3. Declining influence of Britain over member countries.
4. Internal conflicts and instability in some member nations.
5. Lack of binding authority to enforce decisions.

(b) Achievements of the Commonwealth:

1. Promotion of democracy and good governance.
2. Encouragement of education through scholarships and exchange programs.
3. Organization of the Commonwealth Games to foster unity.
4. Support for human rights and development projects.
5. Facilitation of cooperation among member states.

(c) Member countries of the Commonwealth include:

1. Nigeria
2. Ghana
3. Canada
4. India
5. Australia

Answers to Question 6.

(a) Achievements of the Organization of African Unity (OAU):

1. Promotion of African unity and solidarity.
2. Support for the liberation of African countries from colonial rule.
3. Encouragement of economic and social development.
4. Peaceful settlement of disputes among member states.
5. Creation of a platform for African countries to speak with one voice.

(b) Problems that led to its transformation into the African Union (AU):

1. Weak enforcement power of the organization.
2. Inability to prevent or resolve conflicts effectively.
3. Overdependence on foreign aid and funding.
4. Poor economic integration and cooperation.
5. Lack of effective leadership and institutional reforms.

(c) Organs of the African Union include:

1. The Assembly of Heads of State and Government
2. The Executive Council
3. The Pan-African Parliament

Answers to Question 7.

(a) Causes of military intervention in West African politics include:

1. Corruption and mismanagement of public funds.
2. Electoral malpractice and political instability.
3. Ethnic and regional conflicts.
4. Weak political institutions and lack of discipline in governance.
5. Desire of the military to restore order and national unity.

(b) Effects of military rule on political development in the sub-region:

1. Suspension of constitutions and human rights abuses.
2. Centralization of power and lack of checks and balances.
3. Disruption of democratic processes and institutions.
4. Increased political instability and coups.
5. Development of new constitutions and eventual return to civilian rule.

How to Pass Government Exam Questions for SS3 First Term

Passing your Government exam questions for SS3 First term requires a combination of preparation, understanding, and strategy. Here are actionable tips to help you excel:

It’s a wrap!

If you need more clarification on SS3 First Term Questions on Government, you can use the comments box below. We’ll be there to answer you asap. Don’t forget to join our Free Online Tutorial Classes on YouTube. (Subscribe to the Channel)

Best wishes…