The Nigerian Naira
The official currency of Nigeria, introduced in 1973 to replace the Nigerian pound, named after the Niger River.
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National Identity
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“The official currency of Nigeria, introduced in 1973 to replace the Nigerian pound, named after the Niger River.”
Nigeria at a glance
The Federal Republic of Nigeria is a tropical, sub-Saharan nation in West Africa, home to over 200 million people across 36 states. It is a culturally diverse, multi-ethnic country with more than 250 ethnic groups and over 500 languages — the most populous country on the continent.
Dive into the people, places, culture, and symbols that make up the Giant of Africa.
Nigerian States
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Meet the 36 states
Governors, capitals, slogans, and local government areas.
A
Abia
Capital: Umuahia
“God's Own State”
A
Abuja (FCT)
Capital: Abuja
“Centre of Unity”
A
Adamawa
Capital: Yola
“Land of Beauty”
A
Akwa Ibom
Capital: Uyo
“Land of Promise”
A
Anambra
Capital: Awka
“Light of the Nation”
B
Bauchi
Capital: Bauchi
“Pearl of Tourism”
B
Bayelsa
Capital: Yenagoa
“Glory of all Lands”
B
Benue
Capital: Makurdi
“Food Basket of the Nation”
Federal Ministries
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Who runs what
The ministers and portfolios of Nigeria's federal executive.
Agriculture and Food Security
Minister: TBD — update in admin
View ministryArt, Culture and the Creative Economy
Minister: TBD — update in admin
View ministryAviation and Aerospace Development
Minister: TBD — update in admin
View ministryBudget and Economic Planning
Minister: TBD — update in admin
View ministryCommunications, Innovation and Digital Economy
Minister: TBD — update in admin
View ministryDefence
Minister: TBD — update in admin
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Fresh from the encyclopaedia
The latest facts across national identity, people, places, and culture.
Igbo Cultural Traditions
The Igbo people of south-eastern Nigeria have a rich cultural heritage including the New Yam Festival (Iri Ji), the masquerade tradition (mmanwu), and the Igba Nkwu marriage ceremony.
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Culture
The Benin Kingdom
One of the oldest kingdoms in West Africa, founded in the 13th century, known for its extraordinary bronze and ivory sculptures and a sophisticated royal court.
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Culture
The Yoruba Wedding Ceremony
Traditional Yoruba engagement (Introduction) and wedding rites, from the knocking ceremony to the exchange of gifts, prostration, and the presentation of the bride.
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Culture
Lagos Island
The commercial heart of Lagos and Nigeria, home to Balogun Market, Eko Hotel, historic Broad Street, and the cultural landmark of the Freedom Park.
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Places
Lekki Conservation Centre
A 78-hectare nature sanctuary in Lagos, home to the longest canopy walkway in Africa at 401 metres, with monkeys, crocodiles, and rare bird species.
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Places