Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and one of the largest economies on the continent. Located in West Africa, it is known for its cultural diversity, with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 spoken languages. The three largest ethnic groups are the Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, and Igbo, each with rich traditions, histories, and social systems. Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule in 1960 and has since experienced both military and civilian governments. It is a federal republic with a rapidly growing urban population and major cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Kano. Nigeria is also a major oil producer, though its economy is increasingly diversified with contributions from agriculture, technology, and services. Music, film, and literature play a central role in Nigerian culture, with Nollywood being one of the world’s largest film industries. Despite challenges, Nigeria remains a key player in African and global affairs.