Why the answer is A, and why the others tempt you.
**The reasoning**
The **River Niger** is Nigeria's longest river at approximately **4,180 km** total length (about 1,400 km flows through Nigeria). It's not just the largest in Nigeria — it's the third-longest river in Africa! The Niger enters Nigeria from the northwest (Niger Republic border), flows southeast, then takes a dramatic southward turn through the Niger Delta before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. This river gives our country its name and has been central to trade, agriculture, and civilization for centuries.
**Why the wrong options tempt you**
- **Benue (B)** is Nigeria's second-longest river and the Niger's largest tributary — easy to confuse if you've heard both names together often.
- **Cross River (C)** is prominent in the southeast and gives its name to Cross River State, making it regionally significant but much shorter.
- **Ogun (D)** flows through southwestern Nigeria (Ogun State) but is relatively small compared to the Niger.
**Quick takeaway**
Remember: **Nigeria is named after the River Niger** — our country's largest river that literally gave us our identity! 🇳🇬
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