Concept:The Royal Niger Company strengthened Britain’s claim over the Lower Niger region, preventing Germany from taking control of the area that later became Nigeria.
Explanation:During the late 19th century, Germany, led by Bismarck, was actively competing with Britain for territories in West Africa.
The Royal Niger Company, operating under a British royal charter, built strong trading and political influence along the Lower Niger.
By occupying and governing these territories, the company made it possible for Britain to claim the region before Germany could establish its own control.
Later, the British Government revoked the company’s charter and turned these territories into protectorates.
These protectorates were eventually amalgamated to form the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria.
Thus, the company’s most important role was strategic: it secured the area for Britain and blocked German competition.
Answer:A. enabled the British Empire to establish control over and above its German competitor.