Key Facts about Nigeria

About Nigeria:

• It is a country located on the western coast of Africa. It is often called the "Giant of Africa." 
• Boundaries: It is bordered to the north by Niger, to the east by Chadand Cameroon, to the south by the Gulf of Guinea of the Atlantic Ocean, and to the west by Benin. 
• It achieved independence from Britain in 1960. 
• It covers an area of around 9.24 lakh square kilometres.
• It is also Africa’s most populous country.
• Capital: Abuja
• Language: English is Nigeria’s official language, although many local languages such as Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Ijaw are also spoken.
• Money: Naira
• Nigeria has a diverse geography, ranging from arid to humid equatorial climates.
• Drainage:
  • The major drainage areas in Nigeria are the Niger-Benue basin, the Lake Chad basin, and the Gulf of Guinea basin.
  • The Niger River, for which the country is named, and the Benue, its largest tributary, are the principal rivers.
• Major Mountain Range: Cameroonian Highlands
• The country has abundant natural resources, notably large deposits of petroleum and natural gas.