15 Largest States in Nigeria by Land Mass

Nigeria is a vast country with different cultures and histories. It is divided into 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Some states are known for their bustling cities, while others boast expansive landmass, rural beauty, and abundant natural resources. In this article, we will count down the 15 largest states in Nigeria by land mass, giving you a glance at what makes each one special. Let’s get started.

Biggest States in Nigeria by Land Mass

15. Nasarawa State – 27,117 km²

• Date Created: 1 October 1996
• Capital: Lafia

Nasarawa State, located in Nigeria’s North Central region, is known as the “Home of Solid Minerals” due to its abundant mineral resources, including salt, bauxite, and tin. It shares borders with Benue, Kaduna, and the Federal Capital Territory. The state has 13 Local Government Areas, such as Keffi, Karu, and Akwanga. With a mixed cultural heritage, Nasarawa plays a pivotal role as a connecting state between northern and southern Nigeria.

14. Oyo State – 28,454 km²

• Date Created: 3 February 1976
• Capital: Ibadan

Oyo State is a key state in Nigeria’s South West region, rich in history and culture. Its capital, Ibadan, was once the largest city in West Africa. The state comprises 33 Local Government Areas, including Ibadan North, Iseyin, and Oyo. Agriculture thrives here, with major crops like cocoa, yam, maize, and cassava. Notable landmarks in the state include the University of Ibadan and Cocoa House, a reminder of Nigeria’s agricultural past.

13. Kogi State – 29,833 km²

• Date Created: 27 August 1991
• Capital: Lokoja

Kogi State, often referred to as the “Confluence State,” is named for the confluence of the Niger and Benue Rivers. Strategically located in central Nigeria, it borders ten states. Kogi’s 21 Local Government Areas include Dekina, Idah, and Okene. The state is notable for its rich cultural variousness and mineral resources, such as iron ore and limestone, and is home to many ethnic groups, including the Igala, Ebira, and Okun.

12. Plateau State – 30,913 km²

• Date Created: 3 February 1976
• Capital: Jos

Known as the “Home of Peace and Tourism,” Plateau State offers breathtaking scenery, cool climate, and historical landmarks. It is located in the North Central region and has 17 Local Government Areas, including Jos North, Riyom, and Langtang North. The state is a blend of ethnic and religious diversity, making it one of Nigeria’s most culturally rich regions. Plateau State also has a history of tin mining and is an important agricultural producer.

11. Benue State – 34,059 km²

• Date Created: 3 February 1976
• Capital: Makurdi

Benue State, often called the “Food Basket of the Nation,” is well-known for its vast agricultural produce, including yam, cassava, and rice. Situated in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, it shares borders with Nasarawa, Taraba, and Kogi states. The state has 23 Local Government Areas, such as Otukpo, Gboko, and Katsina-Ala. Benue is home to various ethnic groups, with the Tiv and Idoma being predominant, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene.

10. Kebbi State – 36,800 km²

• Date Created: August 27, 1991
• Capital: Birnin Kebbi

Kebbi State covers 36,800 square kilometres, making it the tenth-largest state in Nigeria. It is Situated in the northwestern part of the country, it shares borders with Sokoto, Niger, and Zamfara States, as well as neighbouring countries Niger and Benin. With 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs) like Argungu, Zuru, and Bunza, Kebbi is often called the “Equity State.” Known for its agricultural heritage, the state thrives on rice farming, among other crops, and hosts the annual Argungu Fishing Festival, a popular cultural event.

9. Kwara State – 36,825 km²

Date Created: May 27, 1967
Capital: Ilorin

Kwara State, covering 36,825 square kilometres, lies in the North Central region, often called the Middle Belt. The state has a mix of savanna and forest-savanna ecoregions. Ilorin, its capital, is renowned for its traditional Yoruba culture blended with Islamic influences. Kwara has 16 LGAs, including Ilorin South, Offa, and Kaiama. Though less populated than many other states, it is rich in mineral resources and hosts a diverse blend of cultures.

See>>> Top 10 Most Populated States in Nigeria

8. Adamawa State – 36,917 km²

Date Created: August 27, 1991
Capital: Yola

Adamawa State boasts a landmass of 36,917 square kilometres. It is located in northeastern Nigeria, it shares a long border with Cameroon. Adamawa’s landscape includes stunning hills and valleys, and it is culturally diverse, and home to numerous ethnic groups. The state comprises 21 LGAs, such as Mubi North, Michika, and Girei. Agriculture, including cattle rearing, is a key economic activity here. Residents enjoy traditional festivals like the Njuwa Fishing Festival, celebrating their rich cultural heritage.

7. Zamfara State – 39,762 km²

Date Created: October 1, 1996
Capital: Gusau

Zamfara, with a land area of 39,762 square kilometres, is predominantly an agricultural state. It lies in northwestern Nigeria and has 14 LGAs, including Gusau, Talata Mafara, and Kaura Namoda. The state’s economy largely revolves around farming and gold mining. The majority of its population practices Islam, and Zamfara played a pioneering role in the adoption of Sharia law in Nigeria.

6. Yobe State – 45,502 km²

Date Created: August 27, 1991
Capital: Damaturu

Yobe State covers 45,502 square kilometres and is bordered by the Republic of Niger to the north. It is known for its large mineral deposits, including gypsum and kaolin, and agricultural produce like beans, groundnuts, and millet. The state’s 17 LGAs include Potiskum, Nguru, and Damaturu. Yobe is an important part of Nigeria’s Sahel region, where sandy dunes create a picturesque but harsh landscape.

5. Bauchi State – 45,893 km²

Date Created: February 3, 1976
Capital: Bauchi

Bauchi is the fifth-largest state by landmass, covering 45,893 square kilometres. It is located in the northeastern region, it is bordered by seven states and has 20 LGAs. Bauchi is historically significant for its role in the Fulani Jihad and has many tourist attractions, such as Yankari National Park. Agriculture and livestock farming dominate the economy, with tomatoes, groundnuts, and millet among the primary products.

4. Kaduna State – 46,053 km²

Date Created: May 27, 1967
Capital: Kaduna

Kaduna, covering 46,053 square kilometres, is one of the most diverse states in northern Nigeria, with a rich history and vibrant culture. Its 23 LGAs, such as Zaria, Jema’a, and Birnin Gwari, are known for educational institutions like Ahmadu Bello University. The state is also a major trade hub and plays a central role in northern Nigeria’s economy, with industries in textiles, agriculture, and more.

3. Taraba State – 54,473 km²

Date Created: August 27, 1991
Capital: Jalingo

Taraba State spans 54,473 square kilometres and is bordered by Cameroon to the east. Known for its natural beauty, it features highlands, rivers, and vast plains. The state has 16 LGAs, including Wukari, Bali, and Jalingo. Its rich culture is showcased during various festivals, and it is agriculturally productive, with crops like tea, coffee, and cassava being cultivated. Taraba is often called the “Nature’s Gift to the Nation.”

2. Borno State – 70,898 km²

Date Created: February 3, 1976
Capital: Maiduguri

Borno, the second largest state with 70,898 square kilometres, shares international borders with Niger, Chad, and Cameroon. It has 27 LGAs, including Maiduguri, Biu, and Gwoza. Borno has a complex history marked by the Kanem-Bornu Empire. The state is a major producer of livestock and agricultural products, though it has faced challenges due to insurgency in recent years.

1. Niger State – 76,363 km²

Date Created: February 3, 1976
Capital: Minna

At 76,363 square kilometres, Niger State is the largest state in Nigeria. Located in the North Central region, it is known for its scenic landscapes, including rolling hills and rivers. Niger has 25 LGAs, such as Bida, Kontagora, and Suleja. The state’s economy is centred around agriculture and mining, with significant deposits of gold, marble, and other minerals. It is also home to hydroelectric dams like Kainji, contributing to Nigeria’s power supply.

While a large landmass can present economic opportunities, it does not guarantee prosperity. States with smaller landmasses, like Lagos, often outperform in terms of GDP and economic development. Understanding these dynamics helps showcase the diverse strengths of Nigerian states.