Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa in 2024, home to 232 million. The country’s three most populated cities are Lagos, Kano, and Ibadan. These cities reflect Nigeria’s dynamic growth and urbanization, but these trends also present various difficulties for its residents and even tourists. Let’s move forward to explore Nigeria’s top 10 most populated cities, their population growth trends, and the existing crisis due to this growth. 

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List of 10 Most Populated Cities in Nigeria

• Lagos
• Kano
• Ibadan 
• Kaduna
• Port Harcourt 
• Benin City 
• Maiduguri
• Zaria
• Aba
• Jos

1- Lagos

Lagos is the most populated city in Nigeria. The city is experiencing significant population growth, with an estimated population of 9 million in 2024. According to the statistics, there is a 3.7% annual growth rate. If the neighboring territories are considered, the total population may exceed 10 million. The main cause of this population growth is migration from rural to urban areas.

The city’s demographic trends show a youthful population, which contributes to its high birth rates. The high birth rates, and fertility rate, combined with ongoing migration, ensure that Lagos’s population continues to grow. However, this growth brings substantial challenges.

Lagos faces severe infrastructural problems, including traffic congestion, inappropriate housing, and insufficient public services. The high population density worsens public health challenges. Lastly, access to clean water and sanitation is also a critical issue, with many residents living in informal settlements lacking basic amenities. 

2- Kano

Kano is the second most populated city in Nigeria. It is projected to have a population of approximately 3.6 million in 2024. These numbers reflect a growth of more than 100,000 people from the previous year, equivalent to a 3.2% increase. The city’s population has been steadily rising, driven by a combination of high birth rates and rural-urban migration.

Kano is witnessing a remarkable birth rate, with estimates suggesting around 1,000 births daily. The city’s demographic dynamics are characterized by a youthful population, which fuels further growth.

However, urbanization in Kano has led to overcrowding and the proliferation of slums. Many residents live in informal settlements. The city is struggling with inadequate healthcare and educational facilities. Hospitals are overwhelmed, with some reporting 9,900 outpatient visits daily. 

Kano’s rapid growth also contributes to economic challenges. While the city has opportunities for trade and industry, the high unemployment rate and urban poverty are persistent issues. 

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3- Ibadan

Ibadan is the capital of Oyo State in Nigeria. It is projected to have a population of approximately 3.5 million in 2024, reflecting a 3.34% increase in annual growth. Over the years, Ibadan has transformed into one of the fastest-growing cities in sub-Saharan Africa.

The birth rate in Nigeria is currently declining but it still contributes significantly to Ibadan’s population growth as families continue to have multiple children. However, this growth also presents several challenges. Ibadan faces significant infrastructural issues, leading to the development of slums. 

As more people move to the city, the roads become increasingly congested, making transportation difficult. Inefficient public transit networks lead to longer commutes and more pollution. Flooding is also a frequent occurrence in Ibadan. The city has been working on flood management projects, but the effectiveness of these initiatives remains to be seen.

4- Kaduna

In 2024, Kaduna is the fourth most populated city in Nigeria. It is estimated to have a population of around 1.5 million, reflecting a 2.87% annual increase. Kaduna’s population has been steadily rising. The city experiences a relatively high birth rate, contributing to its population growth.

The youthful demographic fuels the city’s expansion, as a significant portion of the population is under the age of 20. Despite its growth, Kaduna faces several pressing challenges, including a lack of infrastructure and essential services such as healthcare, education, and transportation.

A further major concern is the environment. Kaduna is prone to flooding, particularly during the rainy season. Poor drainage systems and urban sprawl into flood-prone areas increase the risk of water-related disasters.

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5- Port Harcourt

Port Harcourt is the capital of Rivers State in Nigeria. It is projected to have a population of approximately 1.14 million in 2024. These numbers represent a significant increase from its population of 59,752 in 1950. Over the past year, Port Harcourt’s population growth has steadily increased.

The recent projections are showing continued expansion in the coming years. The growth is fueled by a combination of natural increase and migration from surrounding areas. Port Harcourt’s youthful population contributes to the high birth rate and ongoing population growth.

Due to this growth, the city struggles with waste management issues and air quality concerns. Environmental degradation and security threats, including violence and crime, further compound the challenges faced by Port Harcourt’s residents.

6- Benin City 

Benin City is the capital of Edo State in Nigeria. The sixth most populated city in Nigeria is projected to have a population of approximately 1.12 million in 2024. This number reflects a significant increase from its population of 49,148 in 1950. 

Benin City’s population growth has been steadily increasing. According to the statistics, the city’s population is expected to reach 2 million by 2035. The city is also home to a youthful population, which contributes to the high birth rate.

Despite its growth, Benin City faces several challenges, including a lack of proper housing and public services. Environmental issues, including waste management and pollution, further enhance the challenges faced by the city’s residents. 

7- Maiduguri

Maiduguri is the capital of Borno State in northeastern Nigeria. It has an estimated population of 1.1 million in 2024, reflecting a 3.01% annual increase. The city’s population has seen significant growth over the decades, from just 49,774 in 1950.

In past decades, the city has been severely impacted by ongoing conflicts, particularly by the Boko Haram insurgency, which has led to a large number of internally displaced persons. On the other hand, the flooding has disrupted access to essential services including hospitals and schools.

According to recent statistics, over 239,000 people have been affected by recent flash floods. Today, the situation remains precarious. The floods have damaged infrastructure, including bridges and roads, making it difficult for aid to reach those in need. 

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8- Zaria

Zaria is the eighth most populated city in Nigeria. It has an estimated population of 975,153 in 2024. The city is experiencing a modest population growth rate. Migration is also an important part of population growth. The city’s infrastructure, healthcare, and educational systems are under increasing pressure due to this urbanization.

The healthcare system is overwhelmed, with insufficient facilities to cater to the growing population, resulting in longer wait times and reduced access to essential services. The educational sector struggles to accommodate the rising number of students, leading to a decline in educational quality.

On the other hand, economic issues intensify these problems since they prevent many residents from improving their living conditions due to underemployment or unemployment.

9- Aba

Aba is located in the Nile Delta region of Egypt. As of 2024, its population stands at 897,560, reflecting a 3.45% growth rate. Due to the lack of resources, the population remains a challenge for the city. The city faces issues such as overcrowding, pollution, and a lack of affordable housing.

To address these challenges, the government has implemented various initiatives, including family planning programs and investments in infrastructure development. However, more needs to be done to ensure that Aba can provide a quality of life for its residents.

10- Jos

Jos is one of the most populated cities in Nigeria. It is experiencing significant population growth, with an estimated population of 816,824 in 2024, reflecting a modest annual growth rate. The city has seen remarkable growth over the decades; in 1950, its population was just 31,495.

The current trends indicate that the population will continue to grow, as many residents are in their reproductive years, leading to higher fertility rates. In fact, these numbers indicate an alarming situation. Public services such as healthcare, education, and sanitation are in real danger. 

The local government is tasked with eliminating these obstacles while promoting sustainable development. The investment in infrastructure is critical to managing the population boom effectively. Without strategic interventions, the city risks falling into a cycle of urban poverty and social unrest. 

Ranking	City	Population
1	Lagos	9 million
2	Kano	3.6 million
3	Ibadan	3.5 million
4	Kaduna	1.5 million
5	Port Harcourt	1.14 million
6	Benin City	1.12 million
7	Maiduguri	1.1 million
8	Zaria	975,153
9	Aba	897,560
10	Jos	816,824

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Conclusion

The most populated cities in Nigeria are vital to the country’s economic, cultural, and social framework. These urban centers are attracting millions of residents and playing key roles in Nigeria’s growth. Their large populations contribute to the country’s diverse economy. These cities are also rich in culture, highlighting traditional Nigerian heritage. However, rapid population growth has brought challenges, including pressure on infrastructure, housing, and public services. Urban planning and resource management are essential to meeting the needs of these growing populations.

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