Nigeria

British influence and control over what would become Nigeria grew through the 19th century. A series of constitutions after World War II granted Nigeria greater autonomy; independence came in 1960. Following nearly 16 years of military rule, a new constitution was adopted in 1999, and a peaceful transition to civilian government was completed. The government faces the daunting task of reforming a petroleum-based economy, whose revenues have been squandered through corruption and mismanagement, and institutionalizing democracy. In addition, the defusing longstanding ethnic and religious tensions are a priority if Nigeria is to build a sound foundation for economic growth and political stability. Although the April 2003 elections were marred by some irregularities, Nigeria is currently experiencing its longest period of civilian rule since independence. General elections in April 2007 were considered significantly flawed by Nigerian and international observers but they marked the first civilian-to-civilian transfer of power in the country's history. President Umaru Musa YAR'ADUA took office on 29 May 2007.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 135,031,164

Nationality (Noun): Nigerian(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Nigerian

Official Language(s): English

Major Languages Spoken: Edo, English, Hausa, Ibo, Yoruba, Zarma

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): Federal Republic of Nigeria

Country Name (short form): Nigeria

Country Name (local long form): none

Country Name (local short form): none

Name of Capital: Abuja

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Nigeria: Niger, Benin, Cameroon, Chad

Land Area: 910768 sq km

Water Area: 13000 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly more than twice the size of California

Total Land Boundry: 4,047 km

Coastline: 853 km

National Holiday: Independence Day (National Day), 1 October (1960)

International Phone Code: 234

Currency Code: naira (NGN)

Internet Country Code: .ng

US Embassy Location: 7 Mambilla Drive, Abuja

US Embassy Mailing Address: P. O. Box 554, Lagos