Nigeria – Key Facts
General Information
- Official Name: Federal Republic of Nigeria
- Capital City: Abuja
- Population: Approximately 223 million
- Area: 923,769 km²
- Official Language(s): English
- Currency: Nigerian Naira
- Currency Code: NGN
- Time Zone: West Africa Time (WAT)
- Dialing Code: +234
Government
- Head of State: Bola Ahmed Tinubu (President)
- Head of Government: Bola Ahmed Tinubu (President)
- Government Type: Federal Republic
- Independence Day: October 1st, 1960
- National Anthem: “Arise, O Compatriots”
Geography
- Continent: Africa
- Borders with: Benin, Niger, Chad, Cameroon
- Notable Landmarks: Zuma Rock, Olumo Rock, Aso Rock, Niger River
- Major Rivers/Waterways: Niger River, Benue River
- Highest Point: Chappal Waddi (2,419 meters)
- Largest City: Lagos
Economy
- GDP (nominal): $481.1 billion (2022)
- Main Industries: Oil and gas, agriculture, telecommunications, entertainment
- Major Exports: Crude oil, natural gas, cocoa, rubber
- Unemployment Rate: 33.3%
- Currency Exchange Rate (to USD): 1 USD = 760 NGN (approx.)
Culture and Society
- National Religion(s): Christianity (South), Islam (North), indigenous beliefs
- Famous Festivals: Osun-Osogbo, Argungu Festival, New Yam Festival
- National Symbols:
- Flag: Green, white, green vertical stripes
- National Animal: Nigerian Eagle
- National Flower: Costus spectabilis
History
- Colonial History: British colonial rule from 1914 to 1960
- Independence: Gained independence on October 1, 1960
- Historical Events: Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), military coups, return to democracy in 1999
Miscellaneous
- Internet Country Code: .ng
- Popular Sports: Football (soccer), athletics, basketball
- Famous People: Chinua Achebe (author), Wole Soyinka (Nobel laureate), Burna Boy (musician)
- UN Member: Yes, since October 7, 1960
