Regions & Boundaries
map data for Nigeria

Situated on the west coast of Africa, and bordering Niger, Chad, Cameroon and Benin, the Federal Republic of Nigeria has the highest population in Africa. The capital city is Abuja but Lagos is the most highly populated city in Africa.
Nigeria is a federal republic and divided in to thirty-six states and one Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The modern state of Nigeria took its territorial shape and formation in 1914, but since independence in 1960 it has lurched from one military coup to another, achieving democratic elected leadership since 1999. Nigeria is a multi-national state comprising over 250 ethnic groups, and over 500 languages. It is roughly divided into Muslim territories in the north, and Christian ones in the south. Around half of its population is under eighteen years of age.
Referred to as the “Giant of Africa”, Nigeria has the largest economy in the continent, although the consequences of instability caused by separatist activities have affected the economy. It is considered an emerging market and a regional power. One of the largest producers of oil, Nigeria’s economy is driven largely by the service sector, but industry and agriculture still play an enormous role, with nearly 70% of the labour force employed within the agricultural sector. It has a highly developed financial services sector, but tourism is relatively immature and tends to be event-led.
Nigeria is culturally very mixed, and shaped by the number of ethnic groups. It has had a huge influence on the modern African music scene. It is well known for its literature, especially modern literature, and the film industry is thriving. The national sport is football.
On the world stage, Nigeria is a member of the United Nations, a founding member of the African Union, a member of the MINT group of countries (next emerging economies) and a member of OPEC.