At least 150 killed in 2 weeks of sectarian violence. Some 40 Muslims killed 26 February by Christians in Plateau state, central Nigeria, in retaliation for slayings of about 90 Christians by Islamic fighters 24 February. Sudanese man arrested 19 February for allegedly channelling Saudi funds to extremist Muslim group which launched abortive December uprising in northern Nigeria. Commission implementing decision of International Court of Justice to award disputed Bakassi peninsula to Cameroon delayed visit to region at request of Nigeria, which disputes ruling.

Ethnic clashes in south and north left many dead and thousands displaced. Northern clashes between Islamist militants and security forces left at least 18 militants dead, and caused at least 10,000 civilians to flee. At least 30 killed in number of clashes involving Ijaw militants in Niger delta. Cameroon and Nigeria yet to reach agreement over oil rich Bakassi peninsular - awarded to Cameroon by International Court of Justice in 2002 in decision disputed by Nigeria – but countries agreed to introduce joint security patrols in contested region.

Handed over 32 border villages to Cameroon 16 December, in accordance with International Court of Justice ruling. Oil-rich Bakassi peninsular still to be returned to Cameroon. Continued fighting between ethnic militias in oil rich Warri region - Human Rights Watch claimed conflict essentially over oil money.

Muslim militants burnt to ground 13 churches and several houses in north of country – no deaths reported. Ethnic Ijaw militants attacked and occupied two offshore oil rigs, driven off by navy. In subsequent attack, militants took 7 foreign oil workers hostage 28 November – released after 2 days. Decision of International Court of Justice that Nigeria cede disputed territory, particularly oil rich Bakassi peninsula, to Cameroon causes tension.

More than 12 people killed in fresh ethnic violence in Niger delta town of Warri. Nigeria rated as second most corrupt country in world (after Bangladesh) by Transparency International in report released 9 October.

Several people died in fighting in oil city of Warri in Niger delta.

Ethnic conflict between Ijaw and Itsekiri groups and within Ijaw groups in Niger delta claimed almost 100 lives and left more than 1,000 injured. Ceasefire declared on 20 August after 5 days fighting, though there has been sporadic fighting since. Nigeria’s President Obasanjo provided asylum to Liberia’s ousted President Taylor.