Most Populated States in Nigeria in 2024
The most populated states in Nigeria might not be the most popular ones but the number of people residing in the area. Nigeria is ranked to be the most populated black nation in the world which is why it is known as the “Giant of Africa”.
Kano state was seen to be the most populated state in Nigeria as of 2006 when the census was carried out. Today, the population figures show that there has been an increase in the figures in 2006.
This discourse will expose you to the top most populated states in the country by all measures. Kindly explore the next sections for the details.
Most Populated States in Nigeria
The most populated states in the country for 2024 have been recently evaluated by the United States, they are listed below:
1. Lagos-21 Million
The most populated state in Nigeria currently is Lagos state. In 2016, about 7,682,953 people were recorded for Lagos state.
In 2012, the recorded population in Lagos state was said to be 17.5 million. This city has the highest generated revenue in the country and this is seen in its Gross Domestic Product.
Based on the recent evaluation by the United States, the Lagos state has become the most populous city in West Africa with a population of about 21 million.
2. Kano State-16 Million
Kano state is rated the second most populated state in Nigeria. The population as of 2006, was seen to be 9,383,682, and recent estimates show that the population has increased by about 3 million.
Though the state does not seem to have ample job opportunities for strangers, it is filled with plenty of people. The state is the most populated state in the northern part of the country.
3. Oyo State-15 Million
Oyo state has been rated the third most populated state since 2006, and the second most populated state in the South West of Nigeria.
Data from the government shows that the current population in the state is 6.6 million meanwhile in 2016, the United States estimated the state’s population to be 15 million.
4. Kaduna State-12 Million
Kaduna state has over 50 ethnic groups but is dominated by the Fulani and Hausa ethnic groups.
At the last census, the figures showed that the population of Kaduna state was 6,066,562, and a recent evaluation by the United States shows that the state has a population of about 12 million.
5. Rivers State-11 Million
Rivers State is referred to as the treasure base of the nation. It is rich in oil and this is where most oil companies are located.
The capital of Rivers State, Port Harcourt is the most populated in the state. In 2006, the state was recorded to have a population of 5,185,400. Recently, the state has been recorded to have a population of about 11 million.
6. Katsina State-10 Million
Katsina state is rated the sixth most populated in Nigeria. It was recorded to have about 10 million people.
Apart from being the sixth most populated state, two Nigerian Presidents come from Katsina state i.e. the Late Umaru Musa Yar’adua and President Muhammadu Buhari. This is a core Muslim state.
7. Bauchi State-9 Million
In 2006, the Bauchi state was recorded to have a population of 4,653,066, and recently, the state has been recorded to have a population of about 9 million.
Apart from being one of the most populated states in Nigeria, it is known to be very poor.
8. Anambra State-8.3 Million
This state is known widely for its high number of commercial activities. Nnewi and Onitsha are the busiest cities in Anambra.
The state is widely dominated by the Igbo ethnic group. In 2006, the state was recorded to have a population of 4,055,048. Recent data shows the state has a population of about 8.3 million.
9. Jigawa State-8 Million
This is currently the ninth most populated state in Nigeria. The state is widely dominated by Fulani and Hausa ethnic groups.
As of the 2006 census, the state had a population of 4,348,649 but recently, the state has been recorded to have a population of 9 million.
10. Benue State-7.8 Million
Benue state is ranked the tenth most populated in the country with a population of 7.8 million. The state is known as the food basket of the nation.
What’s your take on this? We believe this article was helpful, if yes, don’t hesitate to share this information with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or WhatsApp.
