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100 Facts About Nigeria You Didn’t Know - IbiFoundry

Writer's picture: Simon ZakuSimon Zaku

What do you really know about Nigeria?


Most people know Nigeria for its oil, Nollywood, or Afrobeats stars like Burna Boy and Wizkid.


But beneath these headlines lies a treasure trove of fascinating facts about this vibrant country that even most Nigerians don’t know.


Hi! I’m Simon Zaku, founder of IBI Foundry. Growing up in Jalingo, Taraba State, I’ve always been fascinated by Nigeria’s rich history, culture, and geography.


In this post, I’ll take you on a journey through 100 lesser-known facts about Nigeria - facts that will leave you amazed and inspired.


Let’s get started!


100 Facts About Nigeria You Didn’t Know

Geography and Natural Wonders


1. Nigeria covers an area of 923,768 square kilometers, making it the 14th largest country in Africa.



2. The River Niger is West Africa’s longest river, stretching over 4,100 kilometers and flowing through five countries before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean in Nigeria.



3. The Niger Delta is one of the largest wetlands in the world, hosting unique wildlife like pygmy hippopotamuses and manatees.



4. Taraba State’s Mambilla Plateau is home to Nigeria’s coldest temperatures, averaging 15°C (59°F), making it a top tourist destination.



5. Nigeria’s highest peak, Chappal Waddi (also in Taraba), stands at 2,419 meters above sea level.



6. Lake Chad is shared by four countries, including Nigeria, but it has shrunk by over 90% since the 1960s.



Cultural Diversity


7. Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country, with over 225 million people as of 2025.



8. The Jukun people of Taraba State are considered one of the most historically significant ethnic groups in Nigeria, with origins linked to the ancient Kwararafa Kingdom.



9. Nigeria is home to more than 500 spoken languages, but three major ones dominate: Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo.



10. The Igbo people are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, famously referred to as the “Igbo Apprenticeship System.”



11. The Tiv people in Benue State celebrate the Kwagh-Hir Festival, a colorful display of traditional storytelling, puppetry, and drama.



12. In Yoruba culture, twins are considered a special blessing, and Nigeria has one of the highest rates of twin births globally, particularly in Igbo-Ora, known as the "Twin Capital of the World."



History and Achievements


13. Nigeria gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, and became a republic in 1963.



14. The Dufuna Canoe, discovered in Yobe State, is the oldest boat in Africa and one of the oldest in the world, estimated to be over 8,000 years old.



15. The Benin Bronzes of the Edo Kingdom are among the most celebrated artworks globally, dating back to the 13th century.



16. Nigeria’s first university, University of Ibadan (UI), was established in 1948 and remains one of the top universities in Africa.



17. In 1959, Nigeria became the first African country to have a television station, Western Nigeria Television (WNTV).



Economy and Innovation


18. Nigeria is Africa’s largest oil producer and the 13th largest globally, exporting over 1.5 million barrels per day.



19. Despite its oil wealth, agriculture employs more than 70% of Nigerians, with the country being the largest producer of yams, cassava, and peanuts in Africa.



20. Innoson Motors, founded by Innocent Chukwuma, is Nigeria’s first indigenous automobile manufacturing company.



21. Taraba State is a leading producer of tea, coffee, and bananas from the Mambilla Highlands, known for their premium quality.



22. Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital, contributes nearly 30% of Nigeria’s GDP, generating more revenue than over 30 other states combined.



Wildlife and Environment


23. Nigeria’s Gashaka-Gumti National Park is the largest in the country, spanning 6,731 square kilometers. It’s home to rare species like the African golden cat and the Nigerian chimpanzee.



24. Nigeria has one of Africa’s largest mangrove forests, stretching along the Niger Delta coastline.



25. The Cross River gorilla, found in southeastern Nigeria, is one of the world’s most endangered primates, with fewer than 300 remaining.



26. Yankari National Park in Bauchi State has one of West Africa’s largest elephant populations.



Food and Lifestyle


27. Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cassava, which is processed into garri, fufu, and tapioca.



28. The spicy Nigerian suya (grilled meat skewers) is a favorite street food and a must-try for visitors.



29. Nkwobi, a cow-foot delicacy, is popular in southeastern Nigeria.



30. Nigerian cuisine is incomplete without pepper soup, which is considered a remedy for colds and flu.


A Land of Diversity and Untapped Wonders


Nigeria is a land of diversity, rich history, and untapped wonders.


From the lush Mambilla Plateau in Taraba State to the vibrant streets of Lagos, there’s something here for everyone.


With its diverse people, breathtaking landscapes, and a culture that embraces life, Nigeria truly stands out as a country like no other.


Finally, IbiFoundry Welcomes You To Nigeria ;)


Are you ready to experience the beauty, culture, and stories of Nigeria firsthand?


IBIFoundry is your trusted guide.


We offer bespoke Nigeria tours tailored to your interests, whether it’s exploring Taraba’s natural beauty or diving into Lagos’s vibrant city life.


Book your IBI Foundry Nigeria tour today and discover the untold stories of this incredible nation.


FAQs About Nigerian Facts


1. Is Nigeria safe to visit?


Yes, many regions, including Taraba State, Lagos, and Abuja, are safe for tourists. Always check government travel advisories for the latest updates.


2. What’s the best time to visit Nigeria?


The dry season (November to March) is the best time to visit, especially for outdoor adventures like hiking on the Mambilla Plateau.


3. Do I need a visa to visit Nigeria?


Most travelers need a visa. Contact your nearest Nigerian embassy or consulate for application details.


4. What’s the currency in Nigeria?


The Nigerian Naira (NGN).


5. What are some must-visit locations in Nigeria?


Top spots include the Mambilla Plateau in Taraba, Yankari National Park in Bauchi, Olumo Rock in Ogun, and Obudu Cattle Ranch in Cross River.


6. Can I experience local festivals?


Yes! Festivals like the Argungu Fishing Festival, Osun-Osogbo Festival, and Sharo Festival are great ways to immerse yourself in Nigerian culture.



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Best,

Simon Taki Zaku

Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry

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Planned, Designed by Simon Zaku, Founder, IbiFoundry, 2024.

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