Theory question 104
Nigeria: Physical Setting(a) Draw a sketch map of Nigeria. On the map, show and name: (i) a delta; (ii) a man-made lake; (iii) a confluence town; (iv) the Jos Plateau. (b) Outline any three physical factors that limit the use of rivers for transportation in Nigeria. (c) Highlight three possible solutions to the limiting factors mentioned in 4(b) above.
Show the model answer
(a) Map: Niger Delta (south); Kainji Lake on the Niger (west), or Shiroro/Jebba; Lokoja at the Niger-Benue confluence; Jos Plateau (centre).
(b) Seasonal changes in volume (low water in the dry season); rapids, waterfalls and rocky outcrops; sandbars and silting; shallow and winding channels; water weeds (water hyacinth); floods; many rivers flow north-south, not across the country.
(c) Dredging and channelisation; building dams and locks to regulate flow; clearing weeds; removing rocks/blasting rapids; building canals and river ports; afforestation to reduce silting.
Match each solution to a problem.