Number: RL33964
Title: Nigeria
Authors: Lauren Ploch, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: Nigeria is one of the United States' key strategic partners in Africa. The country is Africa's largest producer of oil, and is America's fourth largest oil provider. According to some estimates, Nigeria could replace Norway as the world's third largest exporter of oil by 2010. As the continent's second largest economy, Nigeria's stability and prosperity affect not only those in the market for Nigerian oil, but the entire region. Nigeria's most recent general elections were held in April 2007. The U.S. State Department called the elections "deeply flawed." Ruling party candidate Umaru Yar'Adua was announced as the winner of the presidential contest with over 70% of the vote, according to official returns. Domestic and international election observers reported widespread fraud, intimidation and violence. The two primary opposition presidential candidates rejected the elections and called for new polls. The results of several gubernatorial races have been annulled by election tribunals, and judicial rulings on a number of other electoral complaints are pending. Despite controversy surrounding his election, though, public opinion toward President Yar'Adua appears increasingly positive.
Pages: 26
Date: June 11, 2008