Lord Lugard, a British colonial administrator and the first Governor-General of Nigeria, held specific views about the Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa ethnic groups during the colonial period. His views were shaped by the racial ideologies predominant in the early 20th century and the challenges he faced in governing Nigeria.

In his writings and policies, Lugard regarded the Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa as distinct ethnic groups with different characteristics. He believed that the Igbo and Yoruba were more receptive to Western education, Christianity, and economic development compared to the Hausa-Fulani.

Lugard's favoritism towards the Igbo and Yoruba stemmed from his perception of their "progressive" nature, while he viewed the Hausa-Fulani as conservative and resistant to change. He believed that the Igbo and Yoruba were better equipped to embrace modernity and participate in governance, trade, and education.

However, it is important to note that Lugard's views were influenced by his role as a colonial administrator, tasked with maintaining control over the diverse regions of Nigeria. His goal was to govern effectively by understanding and utilizing the existing social and cultural structures, and he believed that recognizing the differences between these groups was necessary for colonial rule.

Overall, Lugard's views on the Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa were shaped by racial stereotypes and the need to administer a diverse and complex country during the colonial era.