Geography of Nigeria

LocationNigeria

Koppen-Geiger_Map_NGA_present

Error creating thumbnail:

Nigeria_Topography

Nigeria_veg_1979

Error creating thumbnail:

Palm-tree-plantation--at-Kwale--Delta-state--beside-OPAC-Refinery-

== Geography of Nigeria ==

Nigeria is a country located in West Africa on the Gulf of Guinea. It is bordered by Benin to the west, Niger to the north, Chad to the northeast, and Cameroon to the east. Nigeria's diverse geography includes savannas, rainforests, swamps, and mountains.

Topography

Nigeria's topography is varied, with the Niger River and Benue River forming a significant part of the landscape. The country can be divided into several geographical regions:

• The Niger Delta: This region is characterized by its vast network of rivers, creeks, and swamps. It is one of the world's largest wetlands and is rich in biodiversity.
• The Jos Plateau: Located in the central part of Nigeria, this plateau is known for its cooler climate and unique rock formations.
• The Sokoto Plains: Found in the northwest, these plains are part of the larger Sudan Savannah.
• The Chad Basin: This basin in the northeast is part of the larger Lake Chad area, which is shared with neighboring countries.

Climate

Nigeria experiences a variety of climates due to its size and diverse topography. The climate ranges from arid in the north to tropical in the south. The country has two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season typically lasts from April to October, while the dry season spans from November to March.

Natural Resources

Nigeria is endowed with numerous natural resources, including oil, natural gas, coal, tin, limestone, and iron ore. The Niger Delta is particularly significant for its vast petroleum reserves, making Nigeria one of the largest oil producers in the world.

Flora and Fauna

Nigeria's diverse ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna. The country's rainforests are home to numerous species of plants and animals, including primates, birds, and insects. The savannas and grasslands support large mammals such as elephants, lions, and antelopes.

Environmental Issues

Nigeria faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, desertification, pollution, and loss of biodiversity. The rapid growth of the population and industrial activities have exacerbated these issues, leading to significant environmental degradation.

Related Pages

• Niger River
• Benue River
• Niger Delta
• Jos Plateau
• Sokoto Plains
• Chad Basin
• Climate of Nigeria
• Natural resources of Nigeria
• Flora and fauna of Nigeria
• Environmental issues in Nigeria