Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, with an estimated population of 242.4 million people in 2026, according to Worldometer figures cited by multiple outlets. The estimate places Nigeria ahead of Ethiopia, which is listed at 138.9 million, and Egypt at 120.1 million, which take the second and third spots respectively. Both sources present the ranking as part of a wider list of Africa’s 10 most populous countries for 2026. While the articles focus mainly on the headline ranking, they also describe broader demographic context: Africa is projected to remain the world’s fastest-growing region, with growth driven by youthful population structures, relatively high fertility rates, and improved healthcare. One outlet adds that Nigeria’s last official census took place in 2006 and that subsequent population figures are based on projections, including an estimated annual growth rate referenced from the World Bank. The same outlet also notes Nigeria’s median age and fertility rate as factors underpinning continued expansion. Overall, the reported estimates indicate sustained population growth across Africa, with Nigeria continuing to be a central contributor.
Nigeria remains Africa’s most populous country with 242.4 million in 2026
Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, with an estimated population of 242.4 million people in 2026, according to Worldometer figures cited by multiple outlets. The estimate places Nigeria ah...
- Nigeria is estimated at 242.4 million people in 2026, remaining Africa’s most populous country.
- Ethiopia is estimated at 138.9 million and ranks second; Egypt is estimated at 120.1 million and ranks third.
- The figures are attributed to Worldometer estimates compiled for 2026.
- Nigeria’s population growth is discussed as continuing from projections since its 2006 official census.
- Africa’s population is projected to keep growing quickly through mid-century, driven by youth demographics and fertility.
Nigeria remained Africa's most populous country with 242.4 million people in 2026, ahead of Ethiopia and Egypt, according to Worldometer estimates.
3 hours agoNigeria has retained its position as Africa’s most populous country, with an estimated population of 242.4 million people in 2026, according to new figures from Worldometer.The estimate places Nigeria ahead of Ethiopia (138.9 million) and Egypt (120.1 million), which rank second and third respectively. Africa as a whole remains the world’s fastest-growing continent, with its population projected to surpass 2.5 billion by 2050, driven by youthful demographics, high fertility rates, and improved healthcare.Nigeria’s last official census was conducted in 2006, when the population stood at 140.4 million. Since then, growth has been tracked through projections, with the World Bank estimating a 2.1% growth rate in 2025. The country’s median age of 18 years and fertility rate of 4.2 children per woman continue to fuel rapid expansion.Africa’s Top 10 Most Populous Countries (2026)Nigeria - 242.4 million, Ethiopia -138.9 million, Egypt, 120.1 million, Democratic Republic of Congo, — 116.5 million,Tanzania — 72.6 million, South Africa — 65.5 million, Kenya — 58.6 million, Sudan — 53.3 million, Uganda — 52.8 million, Algeria — 48 million.Experts say Africa’s rising population will reshape markets, investment flows, and labour dynamics, with Nigeria expected to remain a central driver of the continent’s economic growth in the coming decades.
4 hours ago
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