Home to more than 160 million people, Nigeria has the largest population and the second largest economy in Africa, and has a major influence on the continent’s political agenda. However, Nigeria has a history of political instability, corruption and mismanagement of public resources, and has recently seen religious and ethnic conflict. As a result, more than half of Nigeria's population still live in poverty. Despite four peaceful transitions of power since a return to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria’s politics continue to be characterised by patronage, ineffective opposition, low voter turnout and voting along ethnic and religious lines. Most of Nigeria’s wealth is held by a tiny economic and political elite and many people feel powerless to challenge the current system, campaign for their rights or hold their g