Nigeria is home to over 200 million people, making it the most populous country in Africa. As the population continues to grow, many of Nigeria’s cities are expanding rapidly. These cities are becoming important hubs for business, education, culture, and more. In this blog, we’ll take a look at the biggest cities in Nigeria by population in 2024. We’ll explore why these cities are growing and what makes them unique. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Lagos or the rich history of Kano, each city has its own story to tell.
1. Lagos
Population : Over 25 million
Lagos is not just the largest city in Nigeria; it’s also the commercial heart of the country. With people flocking here from all over Nigeria and beyond, the city is constantly growing. Lagos is known for its lively atmosphere, amazing beaches, busy markets, and as a hub for businesses. It’s the place where many Nigerians come to seek better opportunities, whether in entertainment, banking, or technology. Despite its challenges, like heavy traffic and crowded streets, Lagos continues to thrive and attract people from all over the world. It accounts for a significant portion of the country’s GDP, primarily driven by trade, banking, entertainment, and technology.
2. Kano
Population : Over 16 million
Kano is the second-largest city in Nigeria and one of the oldest cities in the country. Located in the northern part of Nigeria, Kano is a historic center of commerce, education, and culture. The city is well-known for its rich history and significance as a major trade and agricultural hub. Kano’s population has steadily grown due to its strategic location and economic opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and manufacturing. Despite being an economic powerhouse in the north, Kano faces its own challenges, including infrastructure development and security issues.
3. Abuja
Population : Over 8 million
Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, is the third-largest city in the country. Since its designation as the capital in 1991, Abuja has rapidly grown into a modern metropolis. Known for its well-planned infrastructure, Abuja serves as the political and administrative center of Nigeria. As the seat of the federal government, Abuja is a very important city, attracting people from across the country who are looking for work, education, and political opportunities. The city is known for its beautiful planning, including wide roads, parks, and amazing landscapes, and it is home to many embassies and international organizations.
4. Port Harcourt
Population: Over 8 million
Port Harcourt, in southern Nigeria, is known as the oil city because of its huge role in Nigeria’s oil industry. It’s an industrial hub, with many oil companies having offices here. The city’s population has been growing rapidly due to job opportunities in the oil sector, and it’s also a central point for trade, especially in goods like oil, gas, and chemicals. Port Harcourt has also developed into a lively city with a mix of cultures and a thriving nightlife.
5. Ibadan
Population: Over 6 million
Ibadan, the largest city in southwestern Nigeria, is known for its historical importance. It was once the capital of the western region of Nigeria, and it still holds cultural significance. Ibadan is a center for education, being home to the University of Ibadan, Nigeria’s first university. The city has a unique mix of old and new, where modern buildings sit alongside historic sites. As more people move to Ibadan for work, education, and business, the population continues to grow.
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6. Benin City
Population : Over 5 million
Benin City, the capital of Edo State, is a city rich in history and culture. It is the center of the Benin Kingdom, one of the most powerful and famous kingdoms in Nigeria’s history. Today, Benin is an important commercial city, with businesses in industries such as trade, manufacturing, and agriculture. The city has a large population, and people are drawn here for the job opportunities, especially in the private and public sectors.
7. Kaduna
Population: Over 4 million
Kaduna is one of Nigeria’s major cities in the north. Known for its educational institutions, especially the famous Ahmadu Bello University, the city has long been an important center for learning and commerce. Its population is growing as people move here for education and job opportunities in agriculture, manufacturing, and government services. Kaduna’s location makes it a transport hub, connecting different parts of Nigeria.
8. Aba
Population: Over 4 million
Aba is a fast-growing city in southeastern Nigeria. It is particularly famous for its thriving markets and manufacturing sector. The city is an economic hub for the southeastern region, with a focus on small-scale industries such as textile production, footwear manufacturing, and furniture making. Aba has long been known as a city of entrepreneurs, with many people starting businesses here. The city’s growth is largely driven by trade and industry, attracting people looking for economic opportunities in both formal and informal sectors.
Aba has witnessed rapid urbanization due to its economic potential, and its population continues to rise as people migrate in search of work and opportunities.
9. Enugu
Population: Over 4 million
Enugu, the capital of Enugu State, is often called the “Coal City” because of its historical connection to coal mining. Although coal is no longer as important to the city’s economy, Enugu remains a center for business and education. It is home to several universities and institutions, and its population has been growing as people come to the city for educational and employment opportunities. Enugu is also known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular choice for families and retirees.
10. Maiduguri
Population: Over 3 million
Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, is the largest city in northeastern Nigeria. Despite challenges related to insurgency in the region, Maiduguri remains a major center for trade, agriculture, and military activity. It serves as an important base for humanitarian organizations and government efforts to address the ongoing conflict in the region. The city’s population continues to grow as displaced people seek refuge and as the economy gradually recovers from the impacts of the insurgency.
Conclusion
As we can see, Nigeria’s cities are growing rapidly, and each one has its unique appeal and challenges. From the fast-paced energy of Lagos to the historic charm of Kano, these cities are shaping the future of Nigeria. As more people move to urban areas for better opportunities, Nigeria’s cities will continue to grow, offering a mix of business, education, culture, and excitement.
