As in most of West Africa, Nigeria's climate is characterized by strong latitudinal zones, becoming progressively drier as one moves north from the coast. Rainfall is the key climatic variable, and there is a marked alternation of wet and dry seasons in most areas.
Nigeria has many local festivals that date back to the time before the arrival of the major religions, and which are still occasions for masquerade and dance. The local festivals cover an enormous range of events, fromMada Dancers harvest festivals and betrothal festivals, to the investing of a new chief and funerals.
Naira (NGN; symbol ₦) = 100 kobo. Notes are in denominations of ₦500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of ₦1 and kobo 25, 10, 5 and 1.