The Top 10 most Crowded Cities In Nigeria

As the infamous saying goes, "the giant of Africa" - Nigeria isn't referred to as that by its sheer size, but by its teeming and ever increasing population, with current numbers exceeding over 200 million people, making it the largest Black nation on earth. Little wonder it is referred to as the 'Giant of Africa". 

The country is divided into 36 states, having six geopolitical zones (North-East, North-West, South-East, South-West, South-South and North-Central). These various regions comprise different cities with varied features, including tribes, languages, population, landmass and infrastructure. 

Let's get right into it. 

1 Lagos 

Eko-nile as popularly known, is arguably the largest and most developed city in Nigeria, having a population of over 21 Million people. Despite its high cost of living, people still throng to the city because of its various opportunities as regards jobs, entrepreneurship and what have you. Lagos can be described as the most mixed ethnic city in the Nation as people from all over the country make that trip hoping for a better life, hence making it the most populous city in Nigeria. 

2 kano 

Located in the northern part of the country, specifically the North-West, with a population of 16 million people making it the second largest city by population. Kano is the major industrial hub of the nation, having several industrial estates. In terms of standard of living, it is relatively low compared to Lagos, however the ever menacing security situation in that region makes migration to that part of the country relatively low. 

3 Ibadan 

Located in Oyo state, the south-west part of the country, with a population of 6 million people. It is often described as the 'tin-roof' city because of it's largely dominated old aluminium thatched roofing houses. Ibadan is fast becoming a trade and commercial hub coupled with a relative low standard of living, making it a go to city. 

4 Abuja 

The capital of Nigeria, housing the seat of power is associated with big things and dreams. With a population of 3.4 million people Located in the north-central part of the nation, it is regarded as the fastest growing city In Africa likewise in the world. Home to multiple industries, companies and various opportunities. Standard of living is relatively high, however a contrast is seen with surrounding cities and neighbourhoods. 

5 Port-Harcourt 

A city located in Rivers state, south-south region, with a population of about 3.1 million people. Major source of revenue is crude oil, hence housing various oil companies that has brought about an influx of people to the state searching for various job opportunities. Standard of living is relatively high. 

6 Benin City 

A city in Edo - state, in the south-south region of the nation. With a population of 1.7 million people, it is popularly known for its cultural heritage, art works and traditional attributes. The city has continued to grow industrially and as such is attracting people from all over. Cost of living is on the average side. 

7 Aba 

Located in Abia state, the south-east region. Aba without a doubt is the commercial hub of the east. Famous for its vast production lines in all kinds of goods, if it is out there, Aba can make it. With a population of 1.1 million people, the majority which are business men and entrepreneurs on the industrial scale. Aba speaks for itself as it has a large industrial space capable of revenue generation for the country. Cost of living is high though. 

8 Maiduguri 

A city in Borno state, located in the North-East region, with a population of about 900,000 people. Major activity is trading with a relatively low standard of living. As with most cities in the north, the security situation in that region accounts for its low influx of people. 

9 Zaria 

A city located in Kaduna state, in the North-west region, with a population of over 800,000 people. The main occupation of the populace is agriculture, and agro produce. Due to its low population in part due to the insecurity in that region, influx of people is generally low. Standard of living is very low as expected. 

10 Jos 

A city in Plateau State Nigeria, located in North-Central, with a population of over 900,000 people. It is widely known for its tourist attractions, the hills and resorts, also known for its mining activities due to its large natural resource of tin and columbite. And yes its extreme weather conditions. The city abounds with industries and various establishments which makes the city a commercial hub for influx of people. Standard of living is relatively low. 

In all, the cities mentioned above are all commercial centres replict with its individual uniqueness and intrigues. However all cities of the nation can become giants in there own rights and do great things on the continent and globally.