15 Facts About Nigeria Most People Get Wrong

Nigeria is home to 222M people across 923,768 km², making it more densely populated than most of its neighbours. It ranks 1st in the world for Africa Population.

Below are 15 facts about Nigeria, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.

CapitalAbuja
Population222M
Area923,768 km²
LanguageEnglish
CurrencyNaira (NGN)
Calling Code+234

15 Facts About Nigeria

A complete overview of Nigeria's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.

1

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa with 220 million people.

2

Nollywood, Nigeria's film industry, produces more films per year than Hollywood.

3

Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa.

4

Lagos is the fastest-growing megacity in the world.

5

Nigeria is located in West Africa, Africa, with its capital city in Abuja.

6

The population of Nigeria is approximately 222M, spread across 923,768 km² of territory.

7

Nigeria has a population density of 240/km²: one of the more densely populated countries in the region.

8

Nigeria has a coastline of 853 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.

9

Nigeria shares land borders with 4 countries: Benin, Niger, Chad, Cameroon.

10

The official language of Nigeria is English, making it straightforward for international visitors to communicate.

11

Nigeria uses the Naira (NGN) as its official currency.

12

Nigeria gained independence in 1960, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in West Africa.

13

The total GDP of Nigeria is $477B, with a GDP per capita of $2,150, classifying it as a developing economy.

14

Nigeria has a tropical, hot and humid south, dry north climate, with the best time to visit being November–February.

15

Nigeria is considered a Budget destination for travellers, with meals averaging $2–6.

Did You Know?

Nigeria is home to Nollywood, the world's second-largest film industry by volume, producing over 2,500 movies per year. The country also has more English speakers than England, and Lagos is Africa's largest city by population.

🏆 Nigeria World Rankings

Nigeria holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:

1st
Africa Population
Most populous country in Africa
1st
Nollywood
World's 2nd largest film industry by volume
1st
Africa Economy
Largest economy in Africa by GDP
6th
Oil
6th largest oil exporter globally

Famous Places in Nigeria

Nigeria is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:

🪨 Zuma Rock

A massive 725m monolith rising dramatically from the plains near Abuja, Nigeria's unofficial emblem

🌳 Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove

A UNESCO sacred forest of Yoruba shrines and sculptures along a river

🦛 Yankari Game Reserve

Nigeria's premier wildlife reserve with hippos, elephants and rare West African lions

🏙️ Lagos Island

The pulsating heart of Africa's largest city, a mosaic of colonial buildings and street life

Frequently Asked Questions About Nigeria

What is Nigeria famous for?

Nigeria is home to Nollywood, the world's second-largest film industry by volume, producing over 2,500 movies per year. The country also has more English speakers than England, and Lagos is Africa's largest city by population.

What is the capital of Nigeria?

The capital of Nigeria is Abuja.

What is the population of Nigeria?

Nigeria has a population of approximately 222M as of 2026.

What language do they speak in Nigeria?

The official language of Nigeria is English.

When did Nigeria become an independent country?

Nigeria gained independence in 1960.

What currency does Nigeria use?

Nigeria uses the Naira (NGN).

What is the GDP of Nigeria?

Nigeria has a GDP of $477B, with a GDP per capita of $2,150.

Where is Nigeria located?

Nigeria is located in West Africa, Africa.

Is Nigeria safe to visit?

Safety conditions in Nigeria vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.

What are some fun facts about Nigeria?

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa with 220 million people. Nollywood, Nigeria's film industry, produces more films per year than Hollywood. Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa.

What are some interesting facts about Nigeria?

Nollywood, Nigeria's film industry, produces more films per year than Hollywood. Nigeria has the largest economy in Africa. Lagos is the fastest-growing megacity in the world.

Nigeria facts: what should I know?

Nigeria is a country in West Africa with a population of 222M. Its capital is Abuja and its official language is English. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa with 220 million people.

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