Nigeria, located in West Africa, is a country with a rich history, diverse culture, and abundant natural resources. Here's an overview of Nigeria's current state:
*Economy*
Nigeria's economy is the fourth-largest in Africa, with a GDP per capita of $9,148 as of 2022 ¹. The country is rich in natural resources, including coal, bauxite, tantalite, gold, tin, iron ore, limestone, niobium, lead, and zinc. However, the economy faces challenges, including a decline in foreign exchange reserves and a depreciating naira ².
*Security*
Nigeria is dealing with several security concerns, including:
- *Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgency*: Active in the northeast, these groups pose a significant threat to national security ². - *Farmer-herder conflicts*: Persistent conflicts in the Middle Belt region ². - *Separatist unrest*: Rising tensions in the southeast ².
*Politics*
Nigeria has a federal republic government, with a president as head of state and government. The country has a complex political landscape, with multiple parties and interest groups. The 2023 general elections saw pre-election violence, particularly in southern regions ².
*Social Issues*
Nigeria faces several social challenges, including:
- *Poverty*: 32% of the population lives in extreme poverty, with 57% having electricity consumption recorded by an electricity meter ¹. - *Education*: 10.5 million Nigerian children aged 5–14 years are not in school, and only 61% of 6–11 year-olds attend primary school ¹. - *Human Rights*: Nigeria's human rights record remains poor, with issues including excessive force, impunity for abuses, arbitrary arrests, judicial corruption, rape, torture, and human trafficking ¹.
*Demographics*
Nigeria has a population of over 230 million, making it the most populous country in Africa and the sixth-most populous in the world ¹. The country has over 250 ethnic groups, with the three largest being Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo.