Nigeria is a vast country with diverse geography and urban settlements. Some cities are densely populated but occupy small land areas, while others cover large expanses of land. This guide highlights the 20 largest cities in Nigeria by land mass, detailing their size, population, economic significance, and key features.
1. Lagos

Land Area: Approximately 1,171 km²
Population: Over 20 million
Key Features: Nigeria’s economic hub, major seaport, financial institutions, commercial activities
Lagos is Nigeria’s most populous city, serving as the country’s financial and commercial center. Despite its relatively small land size, it has an extensive network of businesses, industries, and entertainment hubs.
2. Kano

Land Area: Approximately 449 km²
Population: Over 4 million
Key Features: Agriculture, trade, historic sites, textile industries
Kano is a major city in northern Nigeria, known for its rich history and thriving commerce. It serves as a key trade hub for agricultural and manufactured goods.
3. Ibadan

Land Area: Approximately 3,080 km²
Population: Over 3.5 million
Key Features: Largest city by land area, academic institutions, cocoa production
Ibadan is the largest city by land mass in Nigeria. It hosts several universities, research institutes, and agricultural activities, making it an important educational and economic center.
4. Abuja

Land Area: Approximately 1,769 km²
Population: Over 3 million
Key Features: Nigeria’s capital, government institutions, modern infrastructure
Abuja, the federal capital of Nigeria, was planned to accommodate government activities and diplomatic missions. It has well-structured roads and modern architectural landmarks.
5. Port Harcourt

Land Area: Approximately 360 km²
Population: Over 2 million
Key Features: Oil industry, seaport, industrial activities
Port Harcourt is the center of Nigeria’s oil industry, with numerous multinational corporations. It also has a major seaport that facilitates trade.
6. Maiduguri

Land Area: Approximately 543 km²
Population: Over 1.1 million
Key Features: Trade, agriculture, cultural heritage
Maiduguri is the capital of Borno State and plays an important role in trade and agriculture in northeastern Nigeria. It has a significant cultural history.
7. Benin City

Land Area: Approximately 1,204 km²
Population: Over 1.7 million
Key Features: Historical sites, rubber industry, cultural heritage
Benin City is known for its rich history, particularly the Benin Kingdom. It has industries focused on rubber and timber production.
8. Kaduna

Land Area: Approximately 3,250 km²
Population: Over 1.6 million
Key Features: Railway hub, textile industry, military presence
Kaduna is a significant city in northern Nigeria, serving as an industrial and military hub. It has a strong transportation network.
9. Jos

Land Area: Approximately 1,178 km²
Population: Over 900,000
Key Features: Tin mining, tourism, temperate climate
Jos is known for its cool climate and beautiful landscapes. It is a center for mining and tourism.
10. Ilorin

Land Area: Approximately 765 km²
Population: Over 1 million
Key Features: Agriculture, education, Islamic heritage
Ilorin is a mix of traditional and modern elements, with a strong emphasis on agriculture and education.
11. Enugu

Land Area: Approximately 1,092 km²
Population: Over 900,000
Key Features: Coal mining, manufacturing, trade
Enugu, known as the “Coal City,” has a history of coal mining and remains an important commercial center in southeastern Nigeria.
12. Warri

Land Area: Approximately 990 km²
Population: Over 800,000
Key Features: Oil industry, trade, seaport
Warri is an oil-producing city with a strong presence in trade and commerce.
13. Bauchi

Land Area: Approximately 3,605 km²
Population: Over 600,000
Key Features: Agriculture, tourism, trade
Bauchi is a large city by land mass, known for agriculture and tourism attractions like Yankari National Park.
14. Uyo

Land Area: Approximately 1,250 km²
Population: Over 600,000
Key Features: Oil industry, real estate, tourism
Uyo is the capital of Akwa Ibom State and has modern infrastructure and growing real estate investments.
15. Owerri

Land Area: Approximately 2,510 km²
Population: Over 700,000
Key Features: Tourism, hospitality, business hub
Owerri is known for its nightlife, hospitality industry, and growing commercial activities.
16. Sokoto

Land Area: Approximately 2,200 km²
Population: Over 600,000
Key Features: Islamic heritage, agriculture, trade
Sokoto is an important city in northern Nigeria, with strong cultural and religious significance.
17. Akure

Land Area: Approximately 991 km²
Population: Over 600,000
Key Features: Cocoa production, education, trade
Akure is a major city in southwestern Nigeria, known for its agricultural activities and educational institutions.
18. Calabar

Land Area: Approximately 406 km²
Population: Over 500,000
Key Features: Tourism, cultural heritage, trade
Calabar is famous for its annual carnival and serves as a major tourism and cultural center in Nigeria.
19. Abeokuta

Land Area: Approximately 879 km²
Population: Over 600,000
Key Features: Rock formations, cocoa industry, trade
Abeokuta is known for Olumo Rock and its agricultural contributions, especially in cocoa and cassava production.
20. Gombe

Land Area: Approximately 1,250 km²
Population: Over 500,000
Key Features: Agriculture, trade, education
Gombe is a growing city with a strong agricultural base and expanding urban infrastructure.
FAQ
Which city in Nigeria has the largest land mass?
Ibadan is the largest city in Nigeria by land mass, covering approximately 3,080 km².
Which is the most populated city in Nigeria?
Lagos is the most populated city, with over 20 million residents.
Which cities in Nigeria are best for tourism?
Calabar, Jos, and Enugu offer great tourism attractions, including cultural festivals and natural landscapes.
Which city is Nigeria’s economic hub?
Lagos is Nigeria’s economic hub, housing the largest commercial and financial institutions.