What Are People From Nigeria Called?

West Africa, Nigeria

The demonym for people from Nigeria is:

Nigerian

Pronunciation:

/naɪˈdʒɪəriən/

Ends in -ian — see how this suffix works

Air Peace, 5N-BQP, Boeing 737-33R
Image via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 2.0

About Nigeria

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and has the largest economy on the continent, with its capital city of Abuja serving as the seat of government. Abuja was purpose-built as the federal capital, and its planned design sets it apart from the historic commercial center of Lagos, a megacity and cultural powerhouse. Nigeria is a major producer of oil, and the petroleum sector remains central to its economy and export earnings. The nation is renowned for Nollywood, one of the world's most prolific film industries, which produces a vast number of movies for audiences across Africa and the diaspora. Nigeria's cultural heritage is extraordinarily diverse, with hundreds of ethnic groups contributing languages, music, cuisine, and art. English is the official language, and more than five hundred indigenous languages are spoken. Visitors to Nigeria will discover dynamic cities, vibrant music scenes, and a nation of remarkable creative energy.

Quick Facts about Nigeria
Population:
223,804,632 (2024 est.)
Country:
Nigeria
Region:
West Africa

Recommended Geography Resources

Want to explore where Nigerians live? Here's the atlas that does it best:

National Geographic Atlas of the World

Highly detailed, stunning visuals

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Etymology of the Nigeria Demonym

Named after the Niger River by British journalist Flora Shaw, combining 'Niger' with the Latin suffix '-ia'.

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