Lumumba's Africa. Nigeria. Episode 91 | RT.DOc

Nigeria gained independence in 1960 but was soon engulfed by power struggles and internal conflict. This led to a series of military coups and a civil war from 1967 to 1970, which stifled the development of the young nation. Despite its vast resources – including oil, zinc, and cobalt – the country's economy stagnated. Oil revenues were misappropriated, while agriculture and mining failed to thrive. Yet, Nigerians are among the most accomplished people across the African continent. Although many struggle to fulfil their potential at home, they have excelled abroad as doctors, engineers, and architects in Europe and America.

Today, Nigeria stands at a crossroads with immense potential. To unlock growth, it must take concrete steps: root out corruption, build new industries, and invest in its own agriculture and tourism. Will the country be able to rise to meet these challenges?