Nigeria , the giant of Africa, is the most populous country on the continent, with an estimated population of 211 million people. The population of Nigeria is estimated to double by 2050, which will then make it the third most populous country in the world after India and China.
Nigeria is home to a wide range of cities, each with its own unique character and history. And the migration from rural to urban areas has resulted in overcrowding in many urban areas.
Five most populated cities in Nigeria
Lagos – Population 15,388,000 (est)
Lagos is the most populous city in Nigeria and the second most populated city in Africa behind Cairo Egypt. with an estimated population of over 15 million people (some say closer to 20 million). It is the commercial capital of Nigeria and is home to a wide range of industries, including banking, finance, shipping, and telecommunications. Lagos is also a major cultural center and is home to a number of museums, art galleries, and theaters, it also has plenty of traffic!
Kano – Population 4,103,000 (est)
Kano is the second most populous city in Nigeria, with an estimated population of over four million people. It is the second-largest commercial city in Nigeria and is home to a number of industries, including textiles, leather goods, and food processing. Kano is also a major religious center and is home to the beautiful Grand Mosque of Kano, one of the largest mosques in Africa.
Ibadan – Population 3,565,108 (est)
Ibadan is the third most populous city in Nigeria, with an estimated population of nine million people. It is a major educational and cultural center and is home to the University of Ibadan, one of the oldest universities in Nigeria.
Port Harcourt – Population 1,865,000 (est)
Port Harcourt is the fourth most populous city in Nigeria, with an estimated population of almost two million people. It is a major oil and gas center and is home to a number of refineries and petrochemical plants. Port Harcourt is also a major port city and is a major gateway for trade between Nigeria and the rest of the world.
Benin City – Population 1,782,000 (est)
Benin City is the fifth most populous city in Nigeria, with an estimated population of 5 million people. It is the capital of Edo State and is home to a number of historical sites, including the Oba’s Palace and the Benin Bronzes. Benin City is also a major commercial center and is home to a number of industries, including textiles, food processing, and construction.
How accurate are these numbers?
Keep in mind that these stated numbers are estimates. Based on the last census in 2006 along with projected growth rates established in the country. Nigeria will conduct a census sometime in 2023 and we will get a much-needed update on the population numbers in the nation. We all can see that Nigeria is heavily populated – but it is important to get accurate numbers so resources and projects can be initiated and implemented. Do you live in one of these five cities?
