1. Overview
Nigeria, officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa. It is the most populous country in Africa and one of the most populous in the world. Nigeria is a federal republic comprising 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, where the capital, Abuja, is located.
The country borders Niger to the north, Chad to the northeast, Cameroon to the east, and Benin to the west. Its coastline lies on the Gulf of Guinea in the south. See Geography: Borders for more detail.
2. Etymology
The name Nigeria was coined from the Niger River, which flows through the country. The area along the lower reaches of the river was referred to as the Niger area, and this was shortened to Nigeria to refer to the British Protectorate.
3. Government
Nigeria operates a presidential system of government modeled in part on the federal system of the United States. The country returned to civilian rule in 1999 after a long period of military rule. For background on this transition, see History: Independence and Republic.
4. Demographics
Nigeria is home to over 250 ethnic groups, with the Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo being the three largest. This diversity is reflected strongly in the nation's traditions and everyday life, discussed further in Culture: Ethnic Groups.
5. Economy
Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa by nominal GDP and is a major producer of petroleum. A detailed account of the country's economic sectors is available in the Economy article.