Askia Muhammad governed the Songhai Empire by implementing several effective methods that strengthened the state and enhanced its administration. Among the options provided, the most accurate description of his governance is:
He created a strong central government with five provinces ruled by governors.
Under his rule, Askia Muhammad centralized authority, established a formal government structure, and divided the empire into provinces, each overseen by appointed governors. This helped ensure more efficient administration and control over the vast empire, which spanned across diverse regions in West Africa. His leadership also emphasized the promotion of Islam and the establishment of a system to manage trade and legal matters effectively.