About Nigeria

Nigeria is a country on the coast of West Africa, bounded in the south by the Bight of Benin and the Bight of Biafra (Bight of Bonny), both part of the Gulf of Guinea. Nigeria borders Niger in the north, Benin in the west, Cameroon in the southeast, and Chad in the northeast by a boundary across Lake Chad. The nation shares maritime borders with Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, and São Tomé and Príncipe.

With an area of 923,768 km², Nigeria is more than three times the size of Italy or slightly more than twice the size of the U.S. state of California.

Nigeria's main rivers are the Niger and the Benue River. The highest point in the country is Chappal Waddi at 2,419 m (7,936 ft), located in Taraba State, near the border with Cameroon.

The Federal Republic of Nigeria (the country's official name) has a population of 236.7 million people (UN est. 2025), making it Africa's most populous country. The capital city is Abuja, located in the center of the nation, while Lagos is the primary port and largest city.

Nigeria's main ethnic groups are Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, and Igbo (Ibo). Nigeria is linguistically a diverse country, with over 400 languages spoken. More than half of the Nigerian population are Muslims (53%), predominantly Sunnis. 45% of the population belong to various Christian denominations. ^[EON]

More about Nigeria


The Federal Republic of Nigeria is since 1996 divided into 36 states. Each state has its own elected governor and legislature.

The states are Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, and Yobe.

North Central Nigeria

• Benue
  Benue is located in central Nigeria along the Benue River valley. It is largely agricultural, producing yams, rice, and soybeans. The state is known as the 'Food Basket of the Nation.'
  Tiv are the largest ethnic group in the state, and the Idoma and Igede significant minority groups, Idoma, and Igede are the main ethnic groups.
  Capital: Makurdi
  
  Benue State Government
  Official website of the Benue State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Kogi
  Kogi is centrally located and often called the 'Confluence State' where the Niger and Benue rivers meet. Its ethnic diversity includes the Igala, Ebira, and Okun. Mining and agriculture support its economy.
  Capital: Lokoja
  Major Ethnic Groups: Igala, Ebira, Okun (a Yoruba subgroup)
  
  Kogi State Government
  Official website of the Kogi State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Kwara
  Kwara sits in the transition zone between northern and southern Nigeria. Its capital, Ilorin, blends Yoruba and northern traditions. Sugarcane, cashew, and educational institutions are economic pillars.
  A culturally diverse area known as the "State of Harmony."
  Capital: Ilorin
  Major Ethnic Groups: Yoruba, Nupe, Bariba, and Fulani.
  
  Kwara State Government
  Official website of the Kwara State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Nasarawa
  Nasarawa borders Abuja and is rich in solid minerals. Its landscape includes hills and rivers, and it is home to the Eggon, Gwandara, and other groups. Agriculture and mining form the economic base.
  Rich in minerals; nicknamed "Home of Solid Minerals."
  Capital: Lafia
  Major Ethnic Groups: Alago, Eggon, Mada, and Gwandara.
  
  Nasarawa State Government
  Official website of the Nasarawa State Government.
  
  
  
  

• Niger
  Niger is the largest state in Nigeria in terms of area, it is slightly smaller than the Czech Republic and slightly smaller than South Carolina.
  
  Niger State features rich riverine farmland and plays a key role in Nigeria's energy supply.
  The Kainji and Shiroro dams with their major hydropower stations produce electricity for Nigeria's grid. The dams contribute to both power generation and irrigation, supporting agriculture and fishing in the region.
  
  Niger State is predominantly inhabited by Nupe and Gbagyi people.
  
  Capital: Minna
  
  Major Ethnic Groups: Nupe, Gbagyi, Hausa, and Kambari.
  Note: Nigeria's largest state by land; hosts major hydropower stations.
  
  
  Niger State Government
  Official website of the Niger State Government.
  
  
  
  

• Plateau
  Plateau is known for its cool climate, rock formations, and cultural diversity. Located in central Nigeria, it hosts many ethnic groups. Mining and agriculture are its economic mainstays.
  Famous for its scenic highlands and cool climate.
  Capital: Jos
  Major Ethnic Groups: Berom, Afizere, Anaguta, and Tarok.
  Note: Plateau is famous for its scenic highlands and cool climate.
  
  Plateau State Government
  Official website of the Plateau State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
  Abuja, the purpose-built capital, is known as the "Centre of Unity."
  Capital: Abuja
  Major Ethnic Groups: Gwari (Gbagyi), Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo.
  Note: Abuja, the purpose-built capital, is known as the "Centre of Unity."
  
  Federal Capital Territory Government
  Official website of the Federal Capital Territory Government.
  

North East

• Adamawa
  Rugged and diverse; called the "Land of Beauty." The state borders Cameroon in the northeast.
  Adamawa's landscape features mountains, rivers, and savannahs. It is home to diverse ethnic groups such as the Fulani, Mumuye, and Huba.
  The state's economy is rooted in agriculture, especially livestock and grains.
  Capital: Yola
  Major Ethnic Groups: Fulani, Mumuye, Huba (Kilba), and Bachama.
  
  Adamawa State Government
  Official website of the Adamawa State Government.
  
  
  
• Bauchi
  Bauchi is located in the northeast, its landscape combines savanna and forest zones and is home to Yankari National Park, known for its diverse wildlife. The state has a large Hausa-Fulani population, along with many minority groups.
  Agriculture dominates the economy, with some mining activity. Bauchi state, the "Pearl of Tourism," is known for its arts and crafts which include beautiful embroidered caps and gowns (known as babbanriga), fibre craft, and decorated calabashes.
  Capital: Bauchi
  Major Ethnic Groups: Hausa, Fulani, Sayawa, and Jarawa.
  
  Bauchi State Government
  Official website of the Bauchi State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Borno
  Borno lies in the northeast and shares borders with Chad (across Lake Chad), Niger, and Cameroon. The state has its name from the historic Borno Emirate. The dominant ethnic group are the Kanuri people.
  Borno is primarily an agrarian state with significant deposits of mineral resources. Historically known as the 'Home of Peace,' it has faced security challenges in recent years. The capital is Maiduguri, a cultural and economic hub. Nearby the city is an internally displaced persons camp where the city shelters people who are escaping harassment from Boko Haram, a self-proclaimed jihadist militant group.
  Capital: Maiduguri
  Major Ethnic Groups: Kanuri, Shuwa Arabs, and Babur.
  Note: Historically peaceful, still known as the "Home of Peace."
  
  Borno State Government
  Official website of the Borno State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Gombe
  Gombe lies at the crossroads of Nigeria's northeast,. Its landscape is a mix of savannah and hills. It is ethnically diverse, with Fulani, Tangale, and Tera among the groups. Farming and trade form the backbone of its economy.
  Compact and centrally located; Gombe is known as the "Jewel in the Savannah."
  Capital: Gombe
  Major Ethnic Groups: Fulani, Tangale, Tera, and Waja.
  
  Gombe State Government
  Official website of the Gombe State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Taraba
  A scenic state called "Nature's Gift to the Nation." It is a mountainous state, named after the Taraba River. The state is known for the Mambilla Plateau and the Gashaka-Gumti National Park. Agriculture and tourism have growth potential.
  Capital: Jalingo
  Major Ethnic Groups: Jukun, Mumuye, Kuteb, and Tiv.
  
  Taraba State Government
  Official website of the Taraba State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Yobe
  Located in the arid northeast, Yobe is home predominantly to Kanuri and Fulani people. It shares borders with Niger and has a growing agricultural base. The state capital is Damaturu.
  Yobe is located in the Sahel; the transition zone between the more humid Sudanian savannas and the Sahara desert. The state's nickname is the "Pride of the Sahel."
  Capital: Damaturu
  Major Ethnic Groups: Kanuri, Fulani, and Bade.
  
  Yobe State Government
  Official website of the Yobe State Government.
  
  
  

North West

• Jigawa
  Jigawa lies in northwestern Nigeria and is a largely rural and agricultural state. Dominated by the Hausa and Fulani, it is known for groundnut and millet farming. Development has been steady since its creation in 1991.
  Capital: Dutse
  Major Ethnic Groups: Hausa and Fulani
  Jigawa is a rapidly developing state, known as "The New World."
  
  Jigawa State Government
  Official website of the Jigawa State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Kaduna
  Kaduna is an influential state in northern Nigeria, known as the 'Centre of Learning' due to its many schools and institutions. It has a mixed population of Hausa, Fulani, and many minority groups. The economy includes industry, services, and agriculture.
  Capital: Kaduna
  Major Ethnic Groups: Hausa, Fulani, Gbagyi, and Bajju.
  Key Fact: Hosts numerous educational institutions, earning it the title "Centre of Learning."
  
  Kaduna State Government
  Official website of the Kaduna State Government.
  
  
  
  

• Kano
  With a population of 16.2 million people, Kano is Nigeria's most populous state. It is a major commercial and Islamic center. The state has a long history as a trade hub; it is known for its textiles, leather, and grain markets. Kano City is a key hub for regional and international trade. The Hausa-Fulani tradition dominate the cultural landscape.
  Capital: Kano
  Major Ethnic Groups: Hausa and Fulani
  Key Fact: A major commercial hub, referred to as the "Centre of Commerce."
  
  Kano State Government
  Official website of the Kano State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Katsina
  Katsina is situated in the central-north of Nigeria; it borders the Republic of Niger to the northwest and Benin in the southwest. The state is a stronghold of Islamic education and culture. Agriculture is central to its economy, particularly the production of cotton, groundnuts, and grains. The state is largely home to Hausa-Fulani people.
  Capital: Katsina
  Major Ethnic Groups: Hausa and Fulani.
  Key Fact: Known for its hospitality, called the "Home of Hospitality."
  
  Katsina State Government
  Official website of the Katsina State Government.
  
  

• Kebbi
  Kebbi lies in the far northwest of Nigeria. It borders Benin in the southwest and Niger in the northwest. The state has a strong tradition in rice farming and fishing, and hosts the famous Argungu fishing festival. Its people are mostly Hausa and Fulani.
  Capital: Birnin Kebbi
  Major Ethnic Groups: Hausa, Fulani, and Dakarkari.
  Key Fact: Dubbed the "Land of Equity" for its commitment to fairness.
  
  Kebbi State Government
  Official website of the Kebbi State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Sokoto
  Sokoto is the seat of an historic Islamic caliphate and is a center of religious scholarship. It is largely inhabited by Hausa and Fulani people. Farming and animal husbandry are primary activities.
  
  Capital: Sokoto
  Major Ethnic Groups: Hausa, Fulani.
  Key Fact: Seat of the historic caliphate, known as the "Seat of the Caliphate."
  
  Sokoto State Government
  Official website of the Sokoto State Government.
  
  
  
  

• Zamfara
  Zamfara is a northwestern state rich in agriculture and minerals. Its population of an estimated 6 million people belongs mainly to the Hausa-Fulani ethnic group. The state incorporates traditional emirate structures. The dominant religion in the state is Islam. Zamfara has significant gold deposits and is a major source of artisanal gold mining.
  
  Capital: Gusau
  Major Ethnic Groups: Hausa, and Fulani.
  Key Fact: Agriculturally rich, with the slogan "Farming is Our Pride."
  
  Zamfara State Government
  Official website of the Zamfara State Government.
  

South East

• Abia
  Abia is located in southeastern Nigeria; it is an industrial and commercial center. The state is inhabited predominantly by Igbo people. Its nicknamed is 'God's Own State.' Its economy thrives on small-scale manufacturing and trade. The city of Aba is known for the Ariaria Market, one of West Africa's largest markets.
  Capital: Umuahia
  Major Ethnic Groups: Igbo.
  
  Abia State Government
  Official website of the Abia State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Anambra
  Anambra is a densely populated state in southeastern Nigeria. Cities like Onitsha and Nnewi are major trade and industrial hubs.
  Anambra State is often referred to as "The Light of the Nation" for its vibrant economy.
  It's the second most densely populated state in Nigeria and home to a predominantly Igbo population.
  Capital: Awka
  Major Ethnic Groups: Igbo.
  
  Anambra State Government
  The official Website of Anambra State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Ebonyi
  Ebonyi is a landlocked state in southeastern Nigeria. It is known for its salt deposits and as a leading producer of rice, yam, potatoes, maize, beans, and cassava in Nigeria. The state is predominantlyinhabited by Igbo people and was created to empower rural communities.
  Capital and largest city: Abakaliki
  Major Ethnic Groups: Igbo
  Key Fact: Referred to as the "Salt of the Nation" due to its salt deposits.
  
  Ebonyi State Government
  Official website of the Ebonyi State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Enugu
  Enugu, is located in the southeast, it is predominantly inhabited by Igbo people. Enugu is known as the 'Coal City State,' it was a center of coal mining in colonial Nigeria. The state now focuses on commerce, education, and administration. Its cooler climate adds to its charm.
  Capital: Enugu
  Major Ethnic Groups: Igbo
  Key Fact: Once a coal mining city, now known as the "Coal City State."
  
  Enugu State Government
  Official website of the Enugu State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Imo
  Imo is situated in southeastern Nigeria, the state is known for its dense population and vibrant cultural life. The state capital, Owerri, is a center for commerce, education, and entertainment. Imo is part of the Igbo heartland.
  Capital: Owerri
  Major Ethnic Groups: Igbo
  Key Fact: Called the "Eastern Heartland" for its central location in the southeast.
  
  Imo State Government
  Official website of the Imo State Government.
  
  

South South

• Akwa Ibom
  Akwa Ibom is a state in the South-South region, of Nigeria, bordering the Bight of Biafra in the south. The state is Nigeria's top oil and gas producer. Its capital, Uyo, is known for being clean, modern, and welcoming. Akwa Ibom has an estimated population of about 7.2 million people. The state is home to the Ibibio, Annang, and Oron peoples. Akwa Ibom is nicknamed the "Land of Promise."
  Capital: Uyo
  Major Ethnic Groups: Ibibio, Annang, and Oron.
  
  Akwa Ibom State Government
  Official website of the Akwa Ibom State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Bayelsa
  Bayelsa is a small, oil-rich riverine state in the Niger Delta, a region crisscrossed by creeks and rivers. Bayelsa is mainly inhabited by the Ijaw people. Bayelsa State in Nigeria is nicknamed "The Glory of All Lands." Despite its resources, the state grapples with environmental challenges.
  Capital: Yenagoa
  Major Ethnic Groups: Ijaw
  
  Bayelsa State Government
  Official website of the Bayelsa State Government.
  
  
  
  

• Cross River
  Cross River is situated in Nigeria's southeastern corner, bordering Cameroon in the east. The state is rich in biodiversity, rainforests, and cultural heritage. The state capital, Calabar, is famous for its hospitality and annual carnival. Agriculture and tourism play a growing role in the economy.
  Capital: Calabar
  Major Ethnic Groups: Efik, Ejagham, and Bekwarra.
  Key Fact: Home to diverse cultures and tourism, dubbed "The People's Paradise."
  
  Cross River State Government
  Official website of the Cross River State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Delta
  Delta State sits in the heart of the Niger Delta and is one of Nigeria's major oil-producing regions. Ethnically diverse, it is home to the Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, and Isoko. Its economy mixes oil wealth with fishing and agriculture.
  Capital: Asaba
  Major Ethnic Groups: Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, and Isoko.
  Key Fact: Oil-rich state, referred to as "The Big Heart."
  
  Delta State Government
  Official website of the Delta State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Edo
  Edo State is centered around Benin City, and rich in pre-colonial history and culture. The Edo (Bini) people are known for their bronze artistry and royal heritage. The state's economy is based on agriculture, services, and growing tourism.
  Capital: Benin City
  Major Ethnic Groups: Edo (Bini), Esan, and Afemai.
  Key Fact: Known for its rich history and culture, called the "Heartbeat of the Nation."
  
  Edo State Government
  Official website of the Edo State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Rivers
  Rivers State, with Port Harcourt as its capital, is a key player in Nigeria's oil industry. Located in the Niger Delta, it's ethnically diverse and economically vital. The state balances energy production with environmental concerns.
  Capital: Port Harcourt
  Major Ethnic Groups: Ikwerre, Ijaw, and Ogoni.
  Key Fact: A major oil-producing state, known as the "Treasure Base of the Nation."
  
  Rivers State Government
  Official website of the Rivers State Government.
  
  

South West

• Ekiti
  
  Nestled in southwestern Nigeria, Ekiti is a hilly state known for education and homogeneity. Mostly inhabited by the Yoruba. The economy revolves around agriculture and teaching.
  Capital: Ado-Ekiti
  Major Ethnic Groups: Yoruba
  Key Fact: Renowned for its intellectual prowess. The state has long been known as Nigeria's intellectual capital, with a strong desire for knowledge and a belief in integrity as a tool for positioning.
  Ekiti is nicknamed the "Land of Honour and Integrity."
  
  Ekiti State Government
  Official website of the Ekiti State Government.
  
  
  
  
  
  

• Lagos
  
  Lagos is located in the southwest corner of Nigeria and borders Benin in the west. It is Nigeria's smallest state by land but has its largest population. Lagos State consist of the city of Lagos, located on Lagos Island, and its surrounding territory. It is a melting pot of ethnicities and languages due to its large and diverse population. An estimated 20 million people live in Lagos State; and it is home to numerous Nigerian ethnic groups, including Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, and many others. Lagos is a major commercial and financial hub for Nigeria and the West African subregion. The Lagos Port Complex, also known as Apapa Quays, is the largest and oldest port in Nigeria, established in 1913.
  Lagos City is one of the fastest-growing megacities in the world.
  Capital: Ikeja
  Major Ethnic Groups: Yoruba, Egun, and Awori.
  Key Fact: Nigeria's economic powerhouse, known as the "Centre of Excellence."
  
  Lagos State Government
  Official website of the Lagos State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Ogun
  Ogun borders Lagos and serves as an industrial buffer zone. It is predominantly Yoruba and known for being home to Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka. Its economy includes manufacturing, farming, and education.
  Capital: Abeokuta
  Major Ethnic Groups: Yoruba (Egba, Ijebu, Egbado).
  Key Fact: An industrial hub, referred to as the "Gateway State."
  
  Ogun State Government
  Official website of the Ogun State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Ondo
  Located in southwestern Nigeria, Ondo is a major cocoa-producing state. It has access to the Atlantic Ocean and a mix of Yoruba subgroups. Oil and gas also contribute to its economy.
  Capital: Akure
  Major Ethnic Groups: Yoruba (Akoko, Ikale, Ilaje)
  Key Fact: Known for its sunshine and cocoa production, called the "Sunshine State."
  
  Ondo State Government
  Official website of the Ondo State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Osun
  Osun is known for its cultural heritage and the sacred Osun-Osogbo Grove, a UNESCO site. Located in the Yoruba heartland, it celebrates tradition through festivals and crafts. Agriculture and civil service are key sectors.
  Capital: Osogbo
  Major Ethnic Groups: Yoruba (Ife, Ijesha)
  Key Fact: Rich in culture and tradition, known as the "State of the Living Spring."
  
  Osun State Government
  Official website of the Osun State Government.
  
  
  
  
• Oyo
  Centered on Ibadan, one of Africa's largest cities, Oyo State has historical significance in the old Oyo Empire. It is a key educational and broadcasting hub. The economy includes agriculture, commerce, and services.
  Capital: Ibadan
  Major Ethnic Groups: Yoruba (Oyo, Ibadan, Ibarapa)
  Key Fact: Historically significant, dubbed the "Pace Setter State."
  
  Oyo State Government
  Official website of the Oyo State Government.