Nigeria

-Nigeria, Africa's most populous country with over 170 million people, is dominated by the Muslim (50%) and Christian (40%) religions.-Nigeria also has more than 250 different ethnic groups that contribute to its culture.- The family is a very important factor in Nigeria's culture. Most people live with their extended family and it is the backbone of their social system. - Also, traditional Nigerian "dambe" boxing is an activity that Nigerian people love to watch and do. Although, most of the boxers fight because they have no other way to earn money.

Nigeria

-Little is known about the earliest history of the area that is now known as Nigeria. What we do know is that the early settlers had a basic knowledge of growing plants and raising animals.- The first group of settlers is thought to have been the Nok people. -The Fulani empire ruled what is now Nigeria from the beginning of the 19th century until the British took control of Lagos in 1851. The British seized control of the rest of the area by 1886.- The country became formally known as Nigeria in 1914.-Nigeria gained independence from the British on October 1, 1960.-After gaining independence, rioting broke out in 1966 which led to military leaders taking over.

Traditional Nigerian 'Dambe' Boxing

History

-Nigeria's economy is mainly supported by the country's production of petroleum.-Also, in the southern region of the country, cocoa trees, oil palms, and rubber trees thrive. In the drier north, peanuts are cultivated. In the middle belt of the country, few crops grow because of poor soil. -Because Nigeria is too dependent on oil, its economy declined dramatically when oil prices dropped. Nigeria's people are now trying to expand their economy to rely more on agriculture. - Their economy is still very weak and people have to work very hard just to get enough food for one day.

Government

- Since 1966 there have been many shifts in power among different military leaders. -This led to public unrest and people pushed for democratic leadership. -Today, Nigeria is a country in its first stages as a democracy. - Nigeria's government is now a federal republic just like the United States. - Nigeria is made up of 36 states and 1 territory.

Sources:www.cia.govWorld Geography Textbookwww.kwintessential.co.uk/www.infoplease.com

Economy

Culture

Nigeria's flag