Nigeria's Longest River: The Niger

The Niger River is Nigeria's longest river, flowing ~1,400 km (870 mi) through the country. It enters from the northwest, arcs through the central region, and forms the vast Niger Delta before emptying into the Gulf of Guinea.

Key facts:

• Third-longest river in Africa (after Nile and Congo).
• Major tributary: the Benue River, joining at Lokoja.
• Supports agriculture, fisheries, transport, and hydroelectric power (Kainji, Jebba, Shiroro dams).
• The Niger Delta is Africa's largest wetland and the heart of Nigeria's oil industry.