Nigeria
Nigeria
- Capital
- Abuja
- Population
- 206,139,587
- Region
- Africa
- Languages
- English
Nigeria is a primary global hub for creative industries, specifically housing 'Nollywood,' which ranks as one of the world's largest film producers by volume. The country is also a botanical marvel as it is home to over 4,700 plant species, many of which are used in traditional medicine across the continent. Interestingly, the ancient walls of Benin, located in present-day Nigeria, were once among the largest earthworks in the world, predating modern engineering marvels. This rich cultural tapestry is further evidenced by the fact that over 500 distinct languages are spoken within its borders.
Currency
The official currency is the Nigerian Naira, identified by the ISO code NGN. It was introduced in 1973 to replace the Nigerian pound at a rate of two naira for every pound, marking a significant transition to a decimal system. The name 'Naira' was famously coined by Chief Obafemi Awolowo by collapsing the name of the country itself.
Flag symbolism
The flag of Nigeria features three vertical bands of equal width, with two green stripes flanking a central white stripe. The green represents the nation's vast natural wealth and its flourishing agricultural sector, which has historically been the backbone of the economy. The white band symbolizes peace and national unity, serving as a reminder of the harmony sought among the country's diverse ethnic groups. This minimalist design was created by Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi in 1959 and was officially adopted when the nation gained independence in 1960.
Emblem history
The Nigerian coat of arms features a black shield with a white 'Y' shape, known as a pall, which represents the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers. Two white horses act as supporters on either side, symbolizing dignity and strength in the face of national challenges. Above the shield, a red eagle perched on a green and white wreath signifies national pride and the soaring aspirations of the people. The entire emblem rests on a grassy field of yellow wildflowers, specifically Coctus spectabilis, which is the national flower found throughout the territory.