Nigeria: A Comprehensive Overview of Africa's Most Populous Nation
Nigeria History spans thousands of years, encompassing diverse civilizations, kingdoms, and modern development. Today, this West African powerhouse stands as the continent's most populous nation with 206 million citizens, ranking seventh globally in population size. The Federal Republic of Nigeria operates with English as its official language, reflecting its Colonial era heritage while maintaining its rich cultural identity.
The nation's geography creates a natural hub for West African commerce and culture. Nigeria shares borders with Benin, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, with its capital in Abuja and largest city in Lagos. The country's 36 states span diverse ecological zones, from tropical rainforests to savanna, supporting various economic activities and cultural developments.
Definition: Nigeria's federal system divides the country into six geopolitical zones: North Central, North East, North West, South East, South South, and South West, each with distinct cultural and administrative characteristics.
Cultural diversity in Nigeria represents one of the country's most distinctive features. With over 250 ethnic groups and 500 languages, Nigeria exemplifies Africa's cultural mosaic. This diversity has contributed to the emergence of vibrant creative industries, including Nollywood, which ranks as one of the world's largest film industries by production volume.