The Strengths and Weaknesses of Nigeria

Present-day Nigeria was ruled by Britain until the 19th century. They declared their independence and became a military ruled country after World War II. In 1994, Nigeria became a democratic nation. Nigeria is a massive country,one-third larger than Texas, of 100 million people, 250 ethnic groups, and 4000 dialects. The first inhabitants of Nigeria were believed to be the Nok people. Since its independence Nigeria has developed into a country with many strengths and weaknesses. Nigeria is Africa's most populated country, and at one time it was a large net exporter of food. Nigeria as one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Nigeria has one of the highest literacy rates in Africa and one of the largest and most vocal presses in Africa. The amount of students enrolled in Nigerian schools is more than the total human population of South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Egypt, Morocco, and Tanzania. The literacy rate in Nigeria is one of the highest in Africa at fifty percent.

One of the major problems in Nigeria is inadequate power supply. This and many other problems are responsible for the problems with small scale enterprises. Cancer is a major health problem in Nigeria. The problem involving cancer has been overlooked by agencies that have been advising health projects in Africa. Due to the AIDs epidemic, the life expectancy is relatively low at 47.44 years. Approximately 5.5% of the population has contracted HIV or AIDs. The risk of contracting an infectious disease in the country is relatively high due to this epidemic. Nigeria has a major problem with the transporting of illegal drugs. It is a mid-way point for the distribution of heroine and cocaine to Europe, East Asia, and North America.