Nigeria: Geography and Demographics

Nigeria: Location, Position, and Size

• Nigeria is bordered by Chad and Cameroon to the east, Niger to the north, and the Gulf of Guinea (Atlantic Ocean) to the south.

• Modern Nigeria emerged from British colonial rule, merging the Southern and Northern Nigeria Protectorates in 1914.

• British administration employed indirect rule through traditional chiefdoms.

• Nigeria gained formal independence in 1960.

Nigeria: Population and Economy

• Nigeria is Africa's most populous country (approximately 174 million), and the seventh most populous worldwide.

• It has one of the largest youth populations globally.

• Nigeria is a multinational state with over 500 ethnic groups, including the Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba.

• Significant linguistic and cultural diversity exist amongst these groups.

• Religious demographics are roughly divided between Christians (primarily South and Central) and Muslims (primarily North and Southwest).

• Nigeria's economy (GDP) surpassed South Africa in 2014, becoming Africa's largest, valued at over 500billion(nominal)and500 billion (nominal) and 500billion(nominal)and1 trillion (PPP).

• Significant oil reserves are a key driver of its economic growth.

• Considered an emerging market and regional power in Africa.

• Classified as a middle power, and an emerging power in the world, member of MINT group, and the "Next Eleven".

• Nigeria is a member of the Commonwealth, African Union, OPEC, and the United Nations.

Nigeria: Challenges and Conflicts

• Boko Haram, an Islamist movement, has caused sectarian violence in the Northeast since 2002 and continues to pose a major security threat.

• Boko Haram seeks to overthrow the secular government and impose Sharia law.

• Boko Haram attacks have reportedly resulted in over 12,000 deaths and tens of thousands of injuries.

• Neighbouring countries (Benin, Chad, Cameroon, Niger) have collaborated with Nigeria to combat Boko Haram following widespread media attention on atrocities.

This quiz explores Nigeria's geographical location, historical background, population statistics, and economic factors. Learn about the diverse ethnic groups, religions, and colonial history that shape modern Nigeria. Test your knowledge of Africa's most populous country and its unique culture.