Discover the Top 8 Largest Cities in Nigeria
Did you know that Nigeria is not only the most populous country in Africa but also home to some of the largest cities on the continent? The country has a population that exceeds 230 million people. It will also interest you to know that Nigeria houses more than 250 ethnic groups, all of which speak about 500 different languages. As rural migration continues to surge, her cities evolve rapidly too, each with its unique character and charm.
In this article, we will explore the top 8 largest cities in Nigeria.
1. Lagos
Lagos stands tall as the largest city in Nigeria and the most populous urban area in Africa. It boasts a staggering population of over 21 million residents. The city is viewed as a land of opportunities by many and is often referred to as the economic heartbeat of West Africa.
Historically, Lagos was a small fishing village known as “Eko,” settled by the Yoruba people. Over the centuries, it transformed into a significant trade port, especially during colonial times when it became a crown colony in 1865.
Also, this city is often referred to as Nigeria’s economic powerhouse. It contributes over 60% of the country’s industrial and commercial activities. The port of Lagos at Apapa is one of the busiest in Africa.
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2. Kano
Fun fact: Do you know that Kano was founded by a blacksmith named Kano from the Gaya tribe?
This city is the second largest in Nigeria, with approximately 4.4 million inhabitants. The city became the capital of the Hausa state of Kano around the 12th century. It is located in northern Nigeria and serves as a major commercial center in the North.
The city is predominantly populated by the Hausa and Fulani ethnic groups. Also, it is famous for its textile industry and agricultural products like millet, wheat, cotton, rice, maize and peanuts. The old city is home to Nigeria’s largest mosque and several historical sites, including the Emir’s Palace (Gidan Rumfa).
In order to facilitate trade and travel, the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport connects it to other major cities. Additionally, educational institutions like Bayero University contribute to the city’s development by fostering research and innovation.
3. Ibadan
Ibadan is the capital of Oyo State and one of Nigeria’s oldest cities. This city has a population of around 3.6 million people and ranks as the third-largest city in Nigeria after Lagos and Kano.
In terms of land area, Ibadan is also the largest city in Nigeria. The city is also home to Nigeria’s first university, the University of Ibadan (UI), and offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Lagos.
Ibadan is also recognized for its affordability and expansive land area. By the late 19th century, the city had become a significant trading center due to its strategic location between the forests and savanna regions.
Also, the arrival of British colonial rule in 1893 further propelled its development, especially with the introduction of railroads that connected it to other major cities. The fertile lands surrounding the city produce crops such as cocoa, yams, cassava, and rice, while traditional crafts like weaving and pottery are very common here.
4. Abuja
Abuja is Nigeria’s capital and has rapidly grown to accommodate about 2.6 million people. It is a planned metropolis located in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at the geographic center of the country. The city was officially designated as the capital on 12th December 1991. Also, it was developed based on a master plan created in the 1980s by a consortium of American planning firms.
As Nigeria’s political and administrative capital, Abuja houses key government institutions such as the Presidential Complex, National Assembly, and Supreme Court. It is also home to numerous foreign embassies and international organizations such as ECOWAS and OPEC. This concentration of power has attracted significant investment, which has contributed to Abuja’s status as one of the wealthiest urban areas in Africa.
Notable landmarks that showcase the beauty of the city are Aso Rock, the Nigerian National Mosque, the Nigerian National Christian Centre, Millennium Park, and Eagle Square.
5. Port Harcourt
Port Harcourt, which is often called Nigeria’s oil city, has a population of over 2.1 million residents. It is the capital of Rivers State in southern Nigeria.
This city was established in 1912 as a port town and was named after Lord Lewis Harcourt, the Secretary of State for the Colonies. Also, the city is strategically located along the Bonny River, approximately 66 km from the Gulf of Guinea. This makes it a crucial hub for maritime trade and commerce.
The city boasts significant infrastructure, including two major seaports: the Federal Ocean Terminal in Onne and Port Harcourt Wharf, which facilitate the export of palm oil, timber, coal, and petroleum. The economy of Port Harcourt is diverse, with industries ranging from manufacturing to fishing. The Trans-Amadi Industrial Estate is a notable area where products such as tires, aluminum goods, and glass bottles are produced.
Additionally, Port Harcourt houses Nigeria’s first oil refinery at Alesa-Eleme.
6. Kaduna
Kaduna has a population of approximately 1.8 million people and serves as an important industrial hub in northern Nigeria. Kaduna, the capital city of Kaduna State in northwestern Nigeria, was established by British colonists in 1900.
Fun fact: The name “Kaduna” is derived from the Hausa word for “crocodiles,” and this reflects the presence of these reptiles in the Kaduna River that flows through the city.
Historically, Kaduna has been a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, with a diverse population that includes various groups such as the Hausa, Fulani, and Gwari people. The city serves as a major trade center and transportation hub, strategically positioned as a gateway to northern Nigeria.
Also, it is known for its textile manufacturing industry, which has historically been one of the largest in Nigeria. Additionally, Kaduna is home to several educational institutions, including the Ahmadu Bello University.
The economy of Kaduna is supported by agriculture, particularly in cotton and groundnut production. The city’s industrial sector includes an oil refinery and various manufacturing plants that produce textiles, bicycles, and processed foods.
Culturally, Kaduna is vibrant with numerous festivals and events that celebrate its diverse heritage. The city is home to several historical sites, including the Kaduna National Museum and boasts of a well-developed infrastructure network that includes roads, railways, and an international airport.
7. Benin City
Benin City is the capital of Edo State and is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance as the center of the Benin Empire. The city has a population of 1.7 million people and was established by the Edo people.
According to history, it flourished as the capital of the Kingdom of Benin from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The kingdom was renowned for its sophisticated political structure and artistic achievements, particularly in bronze casting and ivory carving. Under the leadership of notable rulers like Oba Ewuare the Great, who reigned in the 15th century, Benin expanded its territory and established significant trade relations with European powers.
The city is famous for its impressive walls and moats, which were constructed to protect it from invasions. However, in 1897, a British punitive expedition invaded and looted Benin City. This resulted in the destruction of many historical artifacts and treasures.
Following Nigeria’s independence in 1960, Benin City became the capital of the Mid-Western Region and later, in 1991, the capital of Edo State. This designation spurred economic growth, leading to increased commerce and infrastructure development.
Today, Benin City is an important hub for agriculture, particularly in rubber production, palm oil processing, and timber. The city’s markets are vibrant centers for trade, attracting buyers from across Nigeria. The Benin City National Museum houses many artifacts that showcase this artistic legacy, such as famous bronze sculptures that reflect the kingdom’s historical significance.
8. Jos
Home to about a little above 1 million people, Jos is located in the central region of Nigeria and is known for its cool climate and beautiful landscapes. It is the capital of Plateau State in north-central Nigeria and is situated on the Jos Plateau at an elevation of about 4,250 feet (1,295 meters). The city enjoys one of the coolest climates in Nigeria, and this makes it a popular destination for both tourists and expatriates who seek respite from the heat of other regions.
Jos was originally a small village inhabited by the Birom people, and it dramatically transformed in the early 20th century following the discovery of tin deposits. The British colonial administration recognized the area’s potential for mining, and this led to its rapid urbanization and economic growth. By 1905, Jos had become a key center for tin production, attracting a diverse population that included various ethnic groups such as the Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, and Europeans.
The city also serves as a trading hub for agricultural products from surrounding areas. The Jos Museum was established in 1952 and showcases artifacts from the Nok culture and other historical periods.
You’ve surely gained some valuable insights about some of Nigeria’s largest cities. The next time you encounter a discussion about them, feel free to share this information and refer your family and friends to Realty Explainer. We’ve got you covered.