Nigeria overview
Nigeria at a glance
- Population: 140 million
- Capital: Abuja
- Area: 923,768 km2 (356,667 sq miles)
- President: Umaru Yar'Adua
- Major languages: English, Hausa-Fulani, Igbo and Yoruba
- Major religions: Islam, Christianity and Animism
- Monetary unit: Naira
- Main exports: Crude oil, iron ore, palm oil, cocoa
- Int. dialling code: +234
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The Federal Republic of Nigeria is located in West Africa. It is bordered by the Republic of Benin in the west, Chad and Cameroon in the east, and Niger in the north. Its coast lies on the Gulf of Guinea and part of the Atlantic Ocean in the south.
The people of Nigeria have an extensive history, and archaeological evidence demonstrates that human habitation in the country dates back to at least 9000 BC.
Nigeria is the most densely populated country in Africa and the 9th most densely populated country in the world. It has one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
Petroleum plays a large role in the Nigerian economy, accounting for 40% of the GDP. It is the 12th largest oil producer in the world, the 8th largest exporter and has the 10th largest proven reserves. The country is also a founding member of OPEC.
Natural resources in the country include iron ore, limestone, lead and zinc. Agricultural products include groundnuts, palm oil, cocoa, coconut, citrus fruits, maize and sugar cane. Nigeria also has a booming leather and textile industry.