Nigeria is a country located in the western part of Africa with 140 million people (2007 population census) Nigeria comprises of more than 250 ethnic-nationalities and languages living together as one big family. However, the dominant of these ethnic-nationalities are Hausa, Yoruba and Ibo. In recent times, Nigeria has been divided into six geo-political zones for easy administrative purposes by the former Head of state of the country, Gen sani Abacha (Retd) namely:
1. North-East
2. North-west
3. North-Central
4. south-west
5. south-East
6. south-South
Nigerians can be said to be some of the most intelligent people in the world. A highly or averagely educated Nigerian may rise to become distinguished in his chosen profession. Thus, Nigerians are identifiable in every Endeavour. Nigerians have continued to progress taking up international positions both within the international and regional organizations.
Nigerians are hospitable people this may perhaps explain why the country may pass for the freest Nation in terms of free entry and exit. Even Nigerian nationals most times find it difficult to distinguish other nationals from the nationals of the country particularly amongst the Blacks living in the country, a situation which makes Nigerians a peace loving individuals without any record of engaging in any form of war with another country. Give the Nigerian what to do in terms of means of livelihood and you have completely made his day.
Perhaps the peace loving attitude of the citizens of the country was what earned her (Nigeria) the much prestigious award of the "happiest People in the World" from BBC. Nigerians are generally regarded as patient and highly spiritual people always hoping for spiritual miracles to occur in their lives and in the lives of their families from the Almighty God. This earned her the snide remark that if going to church is a criterion for making heaven, Nigeria will occupy heaven before other nationals start arriving. Indeed no one for sure, knows approximately many churches exist in the country. This is because churches continue to spring up almost on monthly basis in the country.
Football is one sport that unifies the over 140 people of the country. The country therefore is one to reckon with in this game having won the three different editions o0f the FIFA under 17 world cup, Olympic gold (football) and African Nations cup twice. Football clubs such as Barcelona FC, Liverpool, AC Milan, Manchester United, Chelsea are very popular among the youths of the country and are having Fans club in the country.
"Up Nigeria" is the usual word often heard when the country has won any particular match or tournament, so in case you decide to support Nigeria in any football match and the country is doing well. Up Nigeria is all you need to identify yourself with the much soccer-loving supporters of the country. Up Nigeria!