Top 20 Biggest Cities in Nigeria by Population

Nigeria is a country where the phrase “there’s always room for one more” is taken quite seriously. With over 200 million people, it’s no surprise that some cities feel like the entire population decided to move in all at once! If you’ve ever wondered which cities in Nigeria are the real champions of squeezing people together—well, you’re in for a treat.

Forget land size for a second, we’re talking people—lots of people. These cities aren’t just big; they’re packed tighter than your mom’s jollof pot on Christmas Day. From megacities like Lagos to fast-growing urban areas, Nigeria’s biggest cities by population are buzzing with energy, noise, and plenty of human traffic. If you’re the type that loves people-watching, then these are the places where you’ll never get bored—because there’s always someone to watch.

So buckle up and get ready to meet the heavyweights of the Nigerian population. From cities where every corner is a gathering spot to those where finding a seat in a bus is like winning the lottery, here are the top 20 biggest cities in Nigeria by population. Trust me, it’s going to be crowded—but in a good way.

 Largest Cities in Nigeria by Population

1. Lagos

Lagos, located in the southwestern part of Nigeria, is the most populous city in the country and also the most developed. With a population exceeding 21 million, Lagos is often regarded as the economic powerhouse of West Africa. This bustling city is home to many multinational companies, entertainment hubs, and bustling markets. Despite its economic significance, the city struggles with traffic congestion and housing issues due to its rapid urbanization. Nonetheless, Lagos remains a melting pot of cultures, top real estate hubs and ethnicities, with people from all corners of Nigeria calling it home.

2. Kano

Kano, situated in the northern part of Nigeria, is the second-most populated city in the country, with a population of around 3.5 million. It serves as the commercial centre of northern Nigeria, with industries ranging from textiles to food processing. Kano is also known for its agricultural products such as millet, rice, and peanuts. The city is rich in history and is one of the oldest cities in Nigeria.

3. Ibadan

Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is one of the largest cities in Nigeria with a population of over 3 million. Located in the southwestern part of Nigeria, Ibadan is historically known for its role during British rule as a centre of commerce and education. It is home to Nigeria’s first university, the University of Ibadan, and has a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling streets of Lagos. It is the biggest city by landmass and also one of the most affordable cities in Nigeria.

4. Abuja

As Nigeria’s capital, Abuja has experienced rapid population growth and is now home to about 3 million people. The city is known for its well-planned infrastructure, housing government offices, embassies, and international organizations. Abuja’s central location makes it accessible from all parts of the country, contributing to its growing population. It is one of the finest cities in Nigeria.

5. Port Harcourt

Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, has a population of over 1.5 million. Known as Nigeria’s oil city, it plays a critical role in the country’s petroleum industry. The city houses major oil companies and refineries, making it a key economic hub. Despite its wealth, Port Harcourt is also known for its high cost of living.

6. Benin City

Benin City, with a population of about 1.3 million, is the capital of Edo State. It is famous for its rich cultural heritage and history, especially during the time of the Benin Kingdom. The city has a thriving arts scene, especially in bronze casting and other traditional crafts, making it a center for tourism in Nigeria.

7. Maiduguri

Maiduguri, located in the northeastern part of Nigeria, has a population of around 1.2 million. The city is the capital of Borno State and is known for being an agricultural and trading hub. However, Maiduguri has gained attention in recent years due to security challenges from insurgent activities in the region.

8. Zaria

Zaria, a city in Kaduna State, has a population of approximately 1 million. It is historically known as one of the ancient Hausa city-states. The city is home to one of Nigeria’s oldest universities, Ahmadu Bello University, and is a major agricultural center in the northern region.

9. Aba

Aba, located in the southeastern part of Nigeria, is known for its commercial activities, particularly in manufacturing and trade. With a population of about 900,000, Aba has earned a reputation for producing goods that are marketed all over Nigeria, and even internationally, especially the “Made in Aba” products.

10. Jos

Jos, the capital of Plateau State, has a population of over 800,000. Known for its mining activities, especially tin, Jos also has a unique climate with cooler temperatures compared to most parts of Nigeria. The city has also become known for its agricultural produce, especially fruits and vegetables. It is the coldest city in Nigeria.

11. Ilorin

Ilorin is the capital of Kwara State and has a population of over 800,000. The city is a key education and cultural centre in the north-central region of Nigeria. It also has a rich history and has maintained its traditional Islamic influence over the years.

12. Oshogbo

Oshogbo, the capital of Osun State, has a population of about 750,000. The city is known for its cultural heritage, especially the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is also a centre for arts, especially traditional Yoruba art.

13. Enugu

Enugu, the capital of Enugu State, has a population of over 700,000. Known historically for its coal mining activities, Enugu is now a major administrative and business hub in the southeastern part of Nigeria.

14. Onitsha

Onitsha, a commercial city in Anambra State, has a population of about 750,000. It is home to one of the largest markets in West Africa, making it a key trading hub in the southeastern region.

15. Ado-Ekiti

Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, has a population of over 500,000. The city is known for its educational institutions and serene environment, attracting many people from different parts of Nigeria.

16. Sokoto

Sokoto, the capital of Sokoto State, has a population of around 500,000. It is an important city in northern Nigeria, known for its historical significance in the spread of Islam and as the seat of the Sokoto Caliphate.

17. Akure

Akure, the capital of Ondo State, has a population of about 500,000. It serves as a major centre for trade and education in southwestern Nigeria.

18. Kaduna

Kaduna, the capital of Kaduna State, has a population of about 800,000. It is a key industrial and educational hub in northern Nigeria and has a rich colonial history.

19. Warri

Warri, located in Delta State, has a population of around 500,000. The city is known for its oil industry and serves as a major economic hub in the Niger Delta region.

20. Uyo

Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, has a population of about 500,000. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in Nigeria, known for its infrastructural development and beautiful landscapes. It is one of the top 5 safest and cleanest cities in Nigeria.

Conclusion

These 20 cities are not only the biggest cities in Nigeria by population, but they also play significant roles in the country’s economic, cultural, and political life. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the historical landmarks in Benin City, each city offers something unique to its residents and visitors.