Africa's most dynamic nation and largest economy — the birthplace of Afrobeats, home to Nollywood (the world's second-largest film industry), and a street food culture as complex as its 500 ethnic groups.
- Capital
- Abuja
- Population
- 223,800,000
- Area
- 923,768 km²
- Languages
- English
- Currency
- Nigerian Naira (NGN)
- GDP
- $188,271M
Good to know
Driving side
Right
National dish
Jollof rice
Annual visitors
5,265,000 (2016)
Safety
Elevated (15.75/100k)
Avg temp
27.3°C
Religion
Christianity
Coast
Coastal
☎ Ambulance 199
Travel guide
Nigeria (Hausa: Najeriya, Igbo: Naíjíríà, Nigerian Pidgin: Naijá, Tyap: Naijeriya, Yoruba: Nàìjíríà) is a large country in equatorial West Africa. Often regarded as the "Giant of Africa", Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, with about 216 million people in 2022. Rich in diversity and landscapes, the country is home to more than 250 ethnic groups and 500 languages. Nigeria is divided roughly in half between Muslims (who are mostly found in the north and make up between 50-53% of the population) and Christians (who are mostly found in the south). The majority of Nigerian Muslims are Sunni Muslims, and the majority of Nigerian Christians are Protestants. Nigeria has the fifth largest Muslim population in the world, and the sixth largest Christian population in the world. Nigeria does have its fair share of political and social problems, but don't let that deter you; the country is endowed with a vibrant youth population who have continued to bring glory to the country in various spheres of human endeavours. The entertainment industry in Africa can not be mentioned without referencing 'Nollywood and Afrobeat'; Nigeria's movie industry and popular genre of music respectively. The country is richly blessed with a plethora of appealing tourist attractions, incredibly friendly, jovial, and sociable people, and delicious food (especially the famous West African delicacy, Jollof Rice), and travel provides you the chance to experience and explore one of the most fascinatingl
© Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA)
Explore Nigeria
Best time to visit
October–March is the cooler dry season — the best time to visit. November–February has the clearest skies. April–September is hot and humid with rains. Lagos is year-round — check local events and avoid major holiday traffic.
Visa
Most nationalities including US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia require a visa for Nigeria — available online at portal.immigration.gov.ng or at Nigerian embassies. Allow time to process.
Public holidays
UNESCO World Heritage Sites (4)
Book your trip to Nigeria
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