Importance of Oil: Oil is crucial for Nigeria; regional problems impact national security.
Diversity: Nigeria has around 250 ethnic groups, with major ones being:
Hausa and Fulani: Predominantly Muslim, northern region.
Igbo: Mostly Christian, southern region.
Yoruba: Southwest, mixed religions (Christian, Muslim, local animist).
Population Growth: Population doubled in past 25 years; projected to double again by 2050, making Nigeria the third most populous country after China and India.
Political Evolution: Transition from local control to imperial domination and nominal independence; complex pre-colonial political structures.
Historical Kingdoms:
Presence of early kingdoms over 2,000 years ago, such as the Nauk society in central Nigeria.
Powerful city-states established by the Hausa around 1100 CE, facilitating trade.
The Oyo kingdom in the southwest expanded wealth through trade and resources.
Impact of Islam:
Introduced through trade routes by the 11th century, predominantly among the Hausa.
15th century: Led to literacy and scholarship through Arabic, though mainly among elites.
18th century: Increased conversions and the rise of leaders like Ousman Dan Folio who established the Sokoto Caliphate after a jihad (1804-1808).
Political Regimes: Nigeria has fluctuated between authoritarian military and democratic regimes since independence.
Patrimonialism: Characterized by personal rule and economic privileges for loyal followers.
Military coups have frequently disrupted democratic processes.
Government Stability Challenges: Frequent regime shifts have led to unfulfilled promises of improved governance.