Land mass of all Nigerian states from largest to smallest

Nigeria, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” is a country with a diverse landscape and rich cultural heritage. One fascinating way to explore Nigeria is by looking at the size of its states.

For young Nigerians, understanding the land mass of each state can be like embarking on a journey through the country’s geographical wonders. From the expansive farmlands of Niger State to the bustling cityscape of Lagos, each state offers something special. By learning about the size and characteristics of these states, we get to appreciate Nigeria’s vastness and diversity even more.

This guide will take you on a tour through Nigeria’s states, starting with the largest in land mass and moving down to the smallest. Along the way, you’ll discover interesting facts and features about each state, making you proud of the rich tapestry that makes up our nation. So, let’s dive in and explore Nigeria, one state at a time!

1. Niger State – 76,363 sq km
Niger State is the largest in Nigeria by land mass. Located in the central part of the country, it is known for its vast farmlands and the famous Gurara Falls. The state’s large size makes it a significant agricultural hub.

2. Borno State – 70,598 sq km
Borno is in the northeastern part of Nigeria and is the second-largest state. It is home to the historic Kanem-Bornu Empire and the Sambisa Forest. Despite challenges, Borno has a rich cultural history and diverse landscapes.

3. Akwa Ibom State – 70,081 sq km
Akwa Ibom, in the South-South region, is known for its oil and gas resources. The state’s large land area includes beautiful coastlines, lush rainforests, and the bustling city of Uyo.

4. Taraba State – 54,573 sq km
Taraba is known as “Nature’s Gift to the Nation” due to its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. It is located in the northeastern part of Nigeria and is famous for the Mambilla Plateau.

5. Kaduna State – 46,053 sq km
Kaduna, in the north-central region, is an important industrial and cultural center. The state is known for its rich history, including the ancient city of Zaria and the Nok culture.

6. Bauchi State – 45,837 sq km
Bauchi is located in the northeastern part of Nigeria. It is home to the Yankari National Park, one of the country’s largest wildlife reserves, making it a key destination for nature lovers.

7. Yobe State – 45,820 sq km
Yobe, also in the northeast, is known for its agricultural activities and the rich history of the Kanem-Bornu Empire. The state features expansive savannas and sand dunes.

8. Zamfara State – 39,681 sq km
Zamfara, in the northwestern region, is rich in minerals and agriculture. The state is known for its significant gold deposits and traditional festivals.

9. Adamawa State – 36,917 sq km
Adamawa is located in the northeastern part of Nigeria. It boasts the Mandara Mountains and a diverse cultural heritage, including the Lamido’s Palace in Yola.

10. Kwara State – 36,825 sq km
Kwara, in the north-central region, is known for its peaceful atmosphere and educational institutions. The state capital, Ilorin, is a historic city with deep cultural roots.

11. Kebbi State – 36,700 sq km
Kebbi, in the northwestern region, is famous for its Argungu Fishing Festival and traditional crafts. The state has vast agricultural lands and beautiful river valleys.

12. Benue State – 34,059 sq km
Benue is known as the “Food Basket of the Nation” due to its rich agricultural produce. The state is located in the north-central region and is famous for its yam production.

13. Plateau State – 30,913 sq km
Plateau, in the north-central region, is renowned for its cool climate and scenic landscapes. The state capital, Jos, is a popular tourist destination.

14. Kogi State – 29,833 sq km
Kogi is strategically located at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers. The state has a rich historical heritage and diverse cultural festivals.

15. Oyo State – 28,454 sq km
Oyo, in the southwestern region, is known for its vibrant culture and history. The ancient city of Ibadan, the state capital, is one of the largest cities in Africa.

16. Nasarawa State – 27,117 sq km
Nasarawa, in the north-central region, is known for its natural resources and agricultural activities. The state is home to the Farin Ruwa Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Nigeria.

17. Sokoto State – 25,873 sq km
Sokoto, in the northwestern region, is a center of Islamic scholarship and culture. The state capital, Sokoto city, is historically significant as the seat of the Sokoto Caliphate.

18. Katsina State – 24,192 sq km
Katsina, also in the northwest, is known for its historical sites, including the ancient city walls and the Emir’s palace. The state plays a key role in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

19. Jigawa State – 23,154 sq km
Jigawa, in the northwestern region, is characterized by its vast farmlands and traditional crafts. The state is also known for its scenic sand dunes and wetlands.

20. Cross River State – 20,156 sq km
Cross River, in the South-South region, is famous for its lush rainforests, the Obudu Mountain Resort, and the vibrant Calabar Carnival.

21. Kano State – 20,131 sq km
Kano, in the north-central region, is one of Nigeria’s most populous and economically significant states. The state capital, Kano city, is an ancient trade center with a rich cultural heritage.

22. Gombe State – 18,768 sq km
Gombe, in the northeastern region, is known for its agricultural activities and natural attractions, including the Gombe Hills and the Tangale Waja Rock Formations.

23. Edo State – 17,802 sq km
Edo, in the South-South region, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, including the ancient Benin Kingdom and the annual Igue Festival.

24. Delta State – 17,698 sq km
Delta, also in the South-South region, is rich in oil and gas resources. The state features beautiful riverine landscapes and vibrant cultural festivals.

25. Enugu State – 17,161 sq km
Enugu, in the southeastern region, is known as the “Coal City” due to its coal mining history. The state capital, Enugu city, is a center of commerce and culture.

26. Ogun State – 16,762 sq km
Ogun, in the southwestern region, is known for its industrial activities and educational institutions. The state capital, Abeokuta, is famous for the Olumo Rock.

27. Ondo State – 15,500 sq km
Ondo, also in the southwest, is rich in agricultural produce, particularly cocoa. The state features beautiful coastal landscapes and the Idanre Hills.

28. Rivers State – 11,077 sq km
Rivers, in the South-South region, is a major oil-producing state. The state capital, Port Harcourt, is a vibrant city with a thriving cultural scene.

29. Bayelsa State – 10,773 sq km
Bayelsa, also in the South-South region, is known for its oil resources and beautiful waterways. The state capital, Yenagoa, is a growing urban center.

30. Osun State – 9,251 sq km
Osun, in the southwestern region, is known for its cultural heritage and festivals, including the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival. The state capital, Osogbo, is a cultural hub.

31. Ekiti State – 6,353 sq km
Ekiti, in the southwestern region, is known for its hilly terrain and educational institutions. The state capital, Ado Ekiti, is a center of learning and culture.

32. Abia State – 6,320 sq km
Abia, in the southeastern region, is known for its industrial activities, particularly in Aba, a major commercial city.

33. Ebonyi State – 5,533 sq km
Ebonyi, also in the southeast, is known for its agricultural produce and natural attractions, including the Abakaliki rice fields.

34. Imo State – 5,530 sq km
Imo, in the southeastern region, is known for its vibrant culture and bustling cities. The state capital, Owerri, is a center of commerce and entertainment.

35. Anambra State – 4,844 sq km
Anambra, in the southeastern region, is known for its commercial activities and historical sites. The state capital, Awka, is a growing urban center.

36. Lagos State – 3,345 sq km
Lagos, in the southwestern region, is Nigeria’s economic powerhouse. The state capital, Lagos city, is the largest city in Nigeria and a major financial center in Africa.

37. Federal Capital Territory (FCT) – 731 sq km
The FCT, home to Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja, is the smallest by land mass but one of the most important. Abuja is the political center of Nigeria and a symbol of unity.