All you ever wanted to know about… N I G E R I A

The Nigerian Flag

Where is it? It is in Africa….

Some general information President: Umaru Yar'Adua Full name: The Federal Republic of Nigeria Population: million (UN, 2005) Capital: Abuja Major languages: English (official), Yoruba, Ibo, Hausa Major religions: Islam, Christianity, indigenous beliefs Life expectancy: 43 years (men), 43 years (women)

Recent political issues A bitter civil war broke out in the late 1960’s over the breakaway from the Biafran republic. Thousands of people have died over the past few years of communal rivalry. Political liberalisation has followed the introduction of Civilian rule in 1999 which has made way for religious and ethical groups to express their opinions with violence.

The imposition of Islamic law in several states has embedded divisions and caused thousands of Christians to flee. Inter-faith violence is said to be rooted in poverty, unemployment and the competition for land. The government is striving to boost the economy, which experienced an oil boom in the 1970s and is once again benefiting from high prices on the world market. But progress has been undermined by corruption and mismanagement.

The Culture… ArtArt is a very important part of the Nigerian culture. Today art in Nigeria ranges from Sculptures, mask, and paintings. Cultural activities, such as music and dance, are also a large part of art in Nigeria. Nigerian art go back more than 2000 years. music

Nigerian food The most popular food eaten by Nigerians are fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood. The difference between what Nigerians eat and what Americans eat is how they prepare the food. Families still eat most of their meals at home. When Nigerians prepare food for their families, they also prepare enough for anyone who may stop by.foodprepare

Nigerian clothing Nigerian citizens wear traditional Nigerian clothing. Some of the material they use are: lace, jacquard, adire and ankara. They also tie die. Clothing is also an important part of ceremonies. Nigerians take pride in their traditional dress.Nigerian clothingmaterialtie die Celebrations and festivals In Nigeria traditional celebrations (holidays) are based on religious beliefs and non religious occasions (mothers day and fathers day). The Government will declare public holidays spontaneously.

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