Nigeria is far the most populated country in Africa, but is rich in mineral resources especially in Oil. Oil was discovered in the south in 1960. And is now one of the major producers of petroleum and Nigeria is a member of the Oil Producing Economic Countries (known as OPEC). English is the official language but there are about 19 major dialects. Naira (=100 kobo) is the official currency of Nigeria.
Abuja is the capital of Nigeria, it was formerly Lagos, which is the modern industrial city in the country and the largest.
Soccer is the national sport of Nigeria. Nigeria boasts one of the finest teams in Africa and in the world. Nigeria is the current African Champion. In the 1994 World Cup in U.S., Nigeria reached the second round with style. It was voted the second most entertaining team in the world after Brazil.
The Junior World Cup (Under-21) is being held in Nigeria this March and 16 teams will be present from the world to fight for the U-21 cup.
Also, during the last half of the 20th century , Africa produced a significant number of novelists, dramatists, and poets. Many of the very best were Nigerians. Amos Tutuola, Onuora Nzekwu, and Chinua Achebe wrote short stories and novels illuminating the experiences of traditional Africans pressured by the stresses of modern society. Achebe's Things Fall Apart gained world acceptance, not just as African set pieces but as representative of the best in contemporary world literature.
In the entertainment industry Nigeria boasts some international stars such as Hakeem Olajuwon who plays for the Houston Rockets, giving them the NBA basketball championship, and winning the MVP for playoffs and the best defensive player. Also Dr. Alban, a musician based in Sweden gaining fame with "It's my life, Sing Halleluhiah, Away from home." Also known is Fela and Sunny Ade, Nigeria's most entertaining musicians and in Africa.
Nigeria has a lot to offer to the world and it has. It is one of the most exciting place to go to in West Africa with a very diverse culture. Ancient kingdoms surround the country's history.