1. Ethnic Groups

Nigeria is home to more than 250 ethnic groups. The Hausa and Fulani dominate the north, the Yoruba are concentrated in the southwest, and the Igbo are concentrated in the southeast. Smaller groups such as the Ijaw, Kanuri, Ibibio, and Tiv also maintain distinct languages and customs. The distribution of these groups closely follows the geopolitical zones described in Geography: Regions.

2. Languages

English is the official language, a legacy of British colonial rule described in History: Colonial Period. Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo are widely spoken as major indigenous languages, alongside hundreds of other regional languages.

3. Religion

Nigeria has a roughly balanced religious population, with Islam predominant in the north and Christianity predominant in the south, alongside communities practicing traditional indigenous religions in various regions.

4. Music and Arts

Nigeria has a globally influential music industry, often referred to as Afrobeats, alongside older traditions such as Fuji, Highlife, and Juju music. Nigerian cinema, known as Nollywood, is one of the largest film industries in the world by volume of output.

5. Cuisine

Nigerian cuisine varies by region but commonly features staples such as rice, yam, and cassava, along with dishes like jollof rice, egusi soup, and suya. Palm oil and pepper are widely used across many regional dishes.