Nigeria, located in West Africa, is the most populous country on the continent, with over 200 million residents. The country is divided into 36 states, and population distribution varies widely across these regions. In this article, we rank the top 10 most populated states in Nigeria based on available data from the 2006 census and notable population centers.
1. Kano State – 25 Million People
Kano State is the most populous state in Nigeria, with about 25 million residents. Located in northern Nigeria, the major language spoken is Hausa. Kano is a commercial hub with one of the largest industrial bases in the country, divided into 44 local government areas (LGAs).
Popular Markets in Kano: Dawano Market, Enlemu Market, Galadima Market, Kantin Kwari Market, Kofar Wabe Market, Kurumi Market, Rimi Market, Yankura Market
Most Populated LGAs in Kano: Dala, Fagge, Gwale, Kano Municipal, Kumbotso, Nasarawa, Tarauni, Ungogo
2. Lagos State – 16 Million People
Lagos is Nigeria’s smallest state by land but the second most populous, with around 16 million residents. Lagos hosts two major seaports and the busiest airport in the country. It is also the richest state in Nigeria.
3. Oyo State – 15 Million People
Oyo State, located in the southwest, has about 15 million residents. It is known for its educational institutions, including the University of Ibadan, Nigeria’s first university, and the first television authority.
4. Rivers State – 11 Million People
Rivers State, in the south-south region, has approximately 11 million residents. It is a major oil-producing state, hosting two major refineries and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s oil output. The economy is driven by both agriculture and oil.
5. Kaduna State – 12 Million People
Kaduna State is located in the north-central region and has over 12 million residents. Home to 52 indigenous tribes, it is a center of learning with institutions like the Nigeria Defense Academy (NDA), College of Aviation Technology, and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria. Kaduna is also one of the largest states in Nigeria by land area.
6. Katsina State – 10 Million People
Katsina, in the northwest, has around 10 million residents. The state is predominantly Hausa-Fulani and Muslim and is the home state of President Muhammadu Buhari.
7. Anambra State – 8.3 Million People
Anambra is the most populous state in the southeast, with 8.3 million residents. The major language is Igbo, and it is known for its vibrant trade and commercial activities.
8. Jigawa State – 8 Million People
Located in northern Nigeria, Jigawa State has about 8 million residents. The majority of inhabitants speak Hausa, while Baribari is spoken among indigenous communities.
9. Benue State – 7.8 Million People
Benue State, in the north-central region, has around 7.8 million residents. Known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” agriculture is the main source of income.
10. Bauchi State – 7 Million People
Bauchi, in northern Nigeria, has about 7 million residents. It is historically significant as the home of the late Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Nigeria’s first Prime Minister.
Conclusion
Accurately determining the population of Nigerian states is challenging, and figures may vary. This list is based on the 2006 census, and rankings may change once a new census is conducted. Kano, Lagos, and Oyo remain the most densely populated states, reflecting their commercial and economic importance.
FAQs
Which state in Nigeria has the highest population?
Kano State is the most populous, with approximately 25 million residents.
Why is Lagos so densely populated despite its small size?
Lagos is Nigeria’s economic hub, with major ports, industries, and job opportunities that attract people from across the country.
Are these population figures current?
No, the figures are based on the 2006 census. Updated figures will be available after the next national census.
Which region in Nigeria has the most states in the top 10 most populated list?
The northern region has the most states in the top 10, including Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Jigawa, and Bauchi.
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