WAEC Geography
Past Questions

AI Explanation

**The reasoning** The **River Niger** is Nigeria's longest river at approximately **4,180 km total length** (though only about 1,400 km flows through Nigeria). It enters Nigeria from the northwest (from Niger Republic), flows southeast, then curves south through the country before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean through the Niger Delta. This makes it not only Nigeria's largest river by length, but also by volume and basin area. The principle here is **geographic scale** — we're measuring by length, drainage area, and water volume. **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **B (Benue)**: Nigeria's second-longest river and the Niger's largest tributary. Since it's prominent and flows through central Nigeria, students often confuse it with the largest. - **C (Cross River)**: Important economically (gives its name to Cross River State), but much shorter. - **D (Ogun)**: Significant in southwestern Nigeria, but only regional in scope. **Quick takeaway** Remember: **"Niger is NUMBER ONE"** — it's literally in our country's name because it's our most significant river system, giving life to the Niger Delta and connecting much of West Africa.

AI Explanation

**The reasoning** Nigeria's capital is **Abuja**. This changed in 1991 when the federal government officially moved from Lagos to Abuja. The relocation happened because Nigeria needed a centrally-located, neutral capital that didn't favor any particular ethnic group or region. Abuja sits in the middle of the country (Federal Capital Territory), making it geographically fair and accessible to all Nigerians. This is a **factual/historical knowledge** question — you either know it or you don't, but now you do! **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **Lagos** was the former capital (until 1991) and remains Nigeria's largest city and economic hub, so many still associate it with being "the main city" - **Kano** and **Ibadan** are major cities with large populations, but they've never served as the national capital **Quick takeaway** Remember: "**Abuja is Nigeria's capital since 1991 — centrally located for unity**." Lagos is the economic giant, but Abuja wears the political crown.