Nigeria.

         Nigeria became its own independent country in 1960 after years of British rule and control. In 1999 a constitution was written ending military rule and paving the way for civilian government. Throughout its history Nigeria has experienced longstanding ethnic and religious tensions. However, Nigeria is currently experiencing the longest stretch of civilian rule since it became its own country. At 923,768 sq. km Nigeria is the 32nd largest country in the world or about twice the size of California. Nigeria contains several valuable natural resources such as natural gas, petroleum, tin, iron ore, and coal among others. Nigeria’s government consists of an executive, legislative, and judicial branch. The Chief of State as well as head of government is Jonathan Goodluck, who became president following the death of former president Yar’adua. In Nigeria the President is elected to a four year term by way of popular vote and is eligible for two terms. The legislature is made up of two houses the Senate which has 109 seats (each of the 12 states are represented by 3 senators and Abuja the country's capital is allocated 1 seat) and the House which seats 360 representatives. Like the President members of congress are elected by popular vote and are limited to four year terms although there is no limit on how many terms a candidate may serve. Nigeria also contains a court system but unlike the United States where the President can only recommend chief justices, the president of Nigeria may appoint justices to the Nigerian Supreme Court. Nigeria’s economy is driven by oil. In 2009 Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product was $ 339 billion ranking 33rd in the world. Although Nigeria’s GDP is relatively high its GDP per capita was only $ 2,300 ranking a dismal 182 worldwide. In 2009, Nigeria’s workforce ranked 12th worldwide with over 47 million people employed in the country. 70 % of Nigerians live below the poverty line. In 2007 Nigeria was the 7th largest exporter of oil in the world, exporting over 2.3 million barrels of oil per day. Over 35% of all exports in Nigeria go to the United States. Nigeria has a very small military. In 2006, Nigeria spent only 1.5% of the GDP on military expenses,  ranking a lowly 100th worldwide.