Nigeria is home to some of its largest and most expansive states, which are crucial in agriculture, natural resources, and the economy. If you’re wondering which states are the largest by land area, or how they compare in size, this guide covers Nigeria’s biggest states. We’ll explore their size, significance, and impact, giving you a better understanding of these vast regions.
Which Are the Largest States in Nigeria?
Nigeria consists of 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), each with its geographical features.
While population density often grabs attention, the largest state in Nigeria by land area reveals much about the country’s diverse physical landscape and economic potential.
Let’s take a closer look at the state with the largest area in Nigeria and how they rank in terms of size.
Below are the top 10 largest states in Nigeria based on land area:
1. Niger State: Largest State in Nigeria
- Land Area: 76,363 km²
- Capital: Minna
- Region: North-Central Nigeria
Niger State is the largest Nigerian state by size with 76,363 square kilometres, making it the largest state by land area in Nigeria. It plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s agricultural production due to its vast, fertile land.
2. Borno State: Vast and Resource-Rich
- Land Area: 70,898 km²
- Capital: Maiduguri
- Region: North-Eastern Nigeria
At 70,898 square kilometres, Borno State ranks as one of the biggest states in Nigeria. It is rich in natural resources, including oil and gas, despite challenges related to its low population density.
3. Taraba State: Region of Natural Diversity
- Land Area: 54,473 km²
- Capital: Jalingo
- Region: North-Eastern Nigeria
Taraba State, with 54,473 square kilometres, offers a mix of mountainous landscapes and plains, making it one of the largest states in Nigeria. Its geographic diversity also means it is rich in wildlife and natural resources.
4. Kaduna State: Key to Nigeria’s Industrial Growth
- Land Area: 46,053 km²
- Capital: Kaduna
- Region: North-Western Nigeria
With 46,053 square kilometres, Kaduna State ranks among the largest states in Nigeria by physical size. Known for its industrial importance, it contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economy.
5. Bauchi State: Expansive and Agricultural
- Land Area: 45,837 km²
- Capital: Bauchi
- Region: Northern Nigeria
Bauchi State, covering 45,837 square kilometres, is a key agricultural producer. It is one of the largest states in Nigeria for farming, making it vital to the country’s agricultural economy.
6. Yobe State: Expansive and Sparsely Populated
- Land Area: 45,502 km²
- Capital: Damaturu
- Region: North-Eastern Nigeria
At 45,502 square kilometres, Yobe State is vast yet sparsely populated. It offers significant agricultural potential, especially for crops like millet and sorghum, making it one of the largest states in Nigeria for agriculture.
7. Zamfara State: Mineral-Rich and Large
- Land Area: 39,762 km²
- Capital: Gusau
- Region: North-Western Nigeria
Zamfara State, with 39,762 square kilometres, is known for its gold reserves, making it one of the largest Nigerian states by land mass with substantial mineral resources.
8. Kebbi State: Fertile and Agricultural
- Land Area: 36,800 km²
- Capital: Birnin Kebbi
- Region: North-Western Nigeria
Covering 36,800 square kilometres, Kebbi State is a major agricultural state, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s rice and millet production. It is one of the most expansive states in Nigeria for farming.
9. Kwara State: Central Region in Nigeria
- Land Area: 36,825 km²
- Capital: Ilorin
- Region: North-Central Nigeria
At 36,825 square kilometres, Kwara State plays a central role in Nigeria’s economy, particularly as a gateway between northern and southern Nigeria. It ranks high among states with the largest land area in Nigeria.
10. Adamawa State: Geographically Diverse State
- Land Area: 36,917 km²
- Capital: Yola
- Region: North-Eastern Nigeria
Adamawa State, covering 36,917 square kilometres, is known for its geographical diversity, including mountains and plains. It is one of the largest states in Nigeria with significant agricultural and mineral resources.
Comparing the Largest States in Nigeria
The ranking of largest states in Nigeria shows that the states with the largest land area in Nigeria are predominantly located in the northern and central parts of the country.
These states cover significant geographical size but may have lower population densities compared to smaller, urbanized states like Lagos.
The area comparison of Nigerian states reveals that there is a notable disparity in land size and population distribution across the country.
According to the National Population Commission, these large states offer considerable opportunities for growth in various sectors, particularly agriculture and natural resources.
Wrap-Up Largest States in Nigeria
To answer the question, which state is the largest in Nigeria? The answer is Niger State, with 76,363 square kilometres.
However, other states like Borno, Taraba, and Kaduna are also crucial due to their vast land areas and natural resources.
Article updated 1 day ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
