Transnational Issues Niger
Disputes - international:
Libya claims about 25,000 sq km in a currently dormant dispute;
much of Benin-Niger boundary, including tripoint with Nigeria,
remains undemarcated but states accept 2001 arbitration over
disputed Niger River islands; Lake Chad Commission continues to urge
signatories Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria to ratify
delimitation treaty over the lake region, which remains the site of
armed clashes among local populations and militias
This page was last updated on 18 December, 2003
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@Nigeria
Introduction Nigeria
Background:
Following nearly 16 years of military rule, a new constitution was
adopted in 1999, and a peaceful transition to civilian government
was completed. The president faces the daunting task of rebuilding a
petroleum-based economy, whose revenues have been squandered through
corruption and mismanagement, and institutionalizing democracy. In
addition, the OBASANJO administration must defuse longstanding
ethnic and religious tensions, if it is to build a sound foundation
for economic growth and political stability. Despite some
irregularities the April 2003 elections marked the first civilian
transfer of power in Nigeria's history.
Geography Nigeria
Location:
Western Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Benin and
Cameroon
Geographic coordinates:
10 00 N, 8 00 E