Country Profile
From The Report: Nigeria 2019
View in Online Reader

The most populous country in Africa with abundant natural resources, Nigeria is the continent’s largest economy by GDP. Combining oil and gas wealth with the entrepreneurial efforts of its predominantly young population, Nigeria has developed a business-friendly environment over two decades of civilian rule and in the nearly 60 years since independence. These achievements are all the more impressive given the stresses and strains imposed on this vast country by regional, religious and political tensions. Yet the challenges of economic inclusivity and ensuring wider equality remain, as around half of Nigerians continue to live below the income poverty line. The incoming administration will face some major security and corruption challenges for a republic that is multi-faceted and complex, but also multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multicultural. This chapter contains a viewpoint with President Muhammadu Buhari; and interviews with Patricia Scotland, Secretary-General, Commonwealth; and Ray Washburne, President and CEO, Overseas Private Investment Corporation.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Increasing influence: The continent’s largest economy looks to build on a foundation of youth and diversity
OBG
plus

The most populous country in Africa and blessed with abundant natural resources, Nigeria is the continent’s largest economy by GDP. Combining oil and gas wealth with the entrepreneurial efforts of its predominantly young population, Nigeria has developed a business-friendly environment over two decades of civilian rule and in the nearly 60 years since independence. These achievements are all the more impressive given the stresses and strains imposed on this vast country by regional, religious and…

Viewpoint

Thriving state: President Muhammadu Buhari, on plans for the future and the country’s recent economic gains
OBG
plus

Viewpoint :Muhammadu Buhari We would do well to reflect on what binds us together and the great strength our diversity bestows on us. Ours is an ambitious nation, and as citizens we have every right to look forward to the future with well-founded confidence and optimism, considering where we find ourselves today. There has been a steady improvement in the security situation in the north-east, and we remain committed to ending the crisis as soon as possible and to making the north-east safe…

Overview

Looking to the future: Balancing the needs of a diverse population is high on the agenda as the country heads to the polls
OBG
plus

In February 2019 Nigerians will once again go to the polls to elect a president, National Assembly and leaders across the political sphere, at the federal and state levels. The incumbent head of state Muhammadu Buhari is seeking re-election, alongside a large pool of candidates. Meanwhile, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party will take on the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the other 77 candidates will all be hoping to make their mark on the national agenda. This…

Interview

Mutual benefits: Patricia Scotland, Secretary-General, Commonwealth, on trade, investment, inclusive growth and the value of cooperation
OBG
plus

Interview :Patricia Scotland How could trade and investment in Nigeria benefit from Commonwealth ties? PATRICIA SCOTLAND: Profound changes are taking place in the global trade landscape, including in the technology and governance frameworks that underpin contemporary trade in goods and services. This dynamic environment presents challenges, but also enormous opportunities to expand and deepen trade, investment and innovation among the 53 Commonwealth members. With a population of over 180m…