Federal Republic of Nigeria · Western Africa
View on the interactive map →| Capital | Abuja |
|---|---|
| Population | 195.9 million |
| Area | 923,768 km² (356,669 mi²) |
| Official language(s) | English |
| Currency | Nigerian naira (₦) |
| Region | Africa |
| Subregion | Western Africa |
| Continent | Africa |
| Demonym | Nigerian |
| Calling code | +234 |
| Time zone | Africa/Lagos |
| Government type | Federal presidential republic |
|---|---|
| Major political parties | All Progressives Congress (APC), People's Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party |
| National motto | Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress |
| Major religions | Islam (north), Christianity (south), Traditional beliefs |
| Important cities | Lagos, Kano, Ibadan, Abuja, Port Harcourt |
Independence / founding: 1 October 1960 (from the United Kingdom)
Home to ancient kingdoms such as Benin and the Sokoto Caliphate, the territory was amalgamated by Britain in 1914. Nigeria became independent in 1960 and endured the Biafran civil war (1967–70) and long military rule before returning to democracy in 1999. It is Africa's most populous nation and largest economy.
| National animal / bird | Eagle (on the coat of arms) |
|---|---|
| National dish | Jollof rice, egusi soup, suya |
| Music | Afrobeats, highlife, Afrobeat (Fela Kuti) |
| National sport | Football |