Nigeria

New wells and latrines have reduced infant mortality in the village of Maigiginya, Nigeria [Jon Spaull]

Despite natural resources such as oil, tin, iron and coal, more than 70% of Nigeria’s population lives on less than $1 per day, and it ranks 159 in the 2006 UN human development index

Many Nigerians still don’t have access to basic needs such as health, water and sanitation, and education.

Since the country returned to democratic rule in 1999, there have been numerous, often unpredicted, violent clashes due either to ethnic and religious tensions, or access to resources such as land.

The Niger Delta region is an area of ongoing conflict, often highlighted in the media due to the kidnapping of foreign nationals working for oil companies.

Thousands have either died or been forced to flee their homes – often to neighbouring countries or to camps.

section highlights

Key challenges

CAFOD partners tackle a range of issues, such as health, education and the environment

latest updates elsewhere on www.cafod.org.uk

HIV challenges in Nigeria Jane Lennon, from CAFOD's HIV team, was struck by the challenges faced by those living with HIV in Nigeria's rural areas - but also heartened by the support they receive

Generosity takes many forms Maddy West explores how the simple task of providing a clean water supply has totally transformed the lives of villagers in Nigeria

Crucial message for our time Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Nigeria says the rich must learn from the poor for the livesimply message to become a truly global challenge