In this post, we will be looking at some of the smallest states in Nigeria. Here, we picked 13 smallest Nigerian states right now and their respective land masses (in Square Kilometers).
With a land area of approximately 3,577 square kilometers, Lagos State is the smallest state in Nigeria. It is located in the southwestern part of the country and is known for being highly urbanized. Despite its small size, Lagos is the most populous state in Nigeria, with a population of over 20 million people. It is the economic hub of the country, hosting major industries, financial institutions, and a bustling port.
Anambra State covers an area of about 4,844 square kilometers. Located in the southeastern part of Nigeria, it is bordered by Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Kogi states. Anambra State is predominantly inhabited by the Igbo ethnic group and is known as the "Light of the Nation" due to its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The state is notable for its agricultural activities, particularly in oil palm production.
Imo State spans approximately 5,530 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest states in Nigeria. It is situated in the southeastern part of the country and is bordered by Abia and Ebonyi states. Imo State is predominantly inhabited by the Igbo people and is known for its diverse cultural festivals, such as the New Yam Festival. The state is home to several industries, including oil palm processing, petroleum refining, and textile manufacturing.
With a land area of around 6,353 square kilometers, Ekiti State is located in the southwestern part of Nigeria. It is surrounded by Ondo, Osun, and Kogi states. Known as the "Fountain of Knowledge," Ekiti State is known for its high literacy rate and emphasis on education. The state is predominantly agrarian, with farming being the primary occupation of its inhabitants. Cash crops like cocoa, palm produce, and yam are cultivated in abundance.
Enugu State covers an area of approximately 7,161 square kilometers and is located in the southeastern part of Nigeria. It is surrounded by Benue, Ebonyi, Abia, and Anambra states. Enugu State is known as the "Coal City State" due to its large coal deposits. The state was the capital of the Eastern region during the colonial era and still plays a significant role in the economic development of the region. Enugu State is also home to numerous natural attractions, such as the Ngwo Pine Forest and Awhum Waterfall.
Gombe State, located in northeastern Nigeria, covers an area of approximately 20,265 square kilometers. It shares borders with Bauchi, Yobe, Borno, and Taraba states. Gombe State is known for its agricultural potential, particularly in the cultivation of crops such as millet, sorghum, maize, and cowpeas. The state is also home to the Gombe State University and various wildlife reserves, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Taraba State is one of the largest states in Nigeria but still considered one of the smallest in terms of land mass, covering approximately 54,473 square kilometers. It is located in the northeastern part of the country and shares borders with Cameroon and Benue, Nassarawa, and Adamawa states. Taraba State is known for its diverse ethnic groups, such as the Jukun, Tiv, and Kuteb, and for its agriculture, with crops like rice, yam, maize, and sorghum being cultivated in abundance. The state is also blessed with natural resources like coal, limestone, and granite.
Abia State, situated in the southeastern part of Nigeria, covers an area of about 6,320 square kilometers. It shares borders with Akwa Ibom, Ebonyi, Imo, Rivers, and Enugu states. Abia State is predominantly inhabited by the Igbo ethnic group and is known for its commercial activities, particularly in the city of Aba, which is famous for its vibrant textile and garment industry. The state is also home to notable institutions of higher learning, such as the Abia State University and Michael Okpara University of Agriculture.
Ebonyi State spans approximately 5,670 square kilometers and is located in the southeastern region of Nigeria. It is bordered by Benue, Enugu, Abia, and Cross River states. Ebonyi State, also known as the "Salt of the Nation," is endowed with natural resources such as lead, limestone, and salt deposits. Agriculture is a significant economic activity in the state, with its residents engaging in the cultivation of crops like rice, yam, cassava, and palm produce.
Located in the southeastern part of Nigeria, Enugu State covers an approximate area of 7,161 square kilometers. It shares borders with Benue, Ebonyi, Anambra, and Kogi states. Enugu, the capital city of the state, was once the capital of the former Eastern Region of Nigeria. The state is known for its coal mining activities, which contributed significantly to Nigeria's industrialization in the past. Enugu State is also home to several tourist attractions, including the Nike Lake Resort and Awhum Waterfall.
Cross River State is situated in the southern part of Nigeria and covers an approximate area of 20,156 square kilometers. It shares borders with Benue, Ebonyi, and Akwa Ibom states, as well as Cameroon. The state is known for its diverse ethnic groups, including the Efik, Ibibio, and Bekwarra. Cross River State is renowned for its natural beauty, with attractions such as the Obudu Cattle Ranch, Agbokim Waterfalls, and Cross River National Park.
Bayelsa State is located in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria and covers an approximate area of 10,773 square kilometers. It shares borders with Delta and Rivers states. Bayelsa State is predominantly inhabited by the Ijaw ethnic group and is known for its oil-rich reserves, making it a significant player in Nigeria's oil and gas industry. The state is home to several riverine communities and boasts attractions like the Niger Delta University and the Tereke-Brass Island, popular for its scenic beauty.
Yobe State is situated in northeastern Nigeria and covers an approximate area of 45,502 square kilometers. It shares borders with Borno, Jigawa, Gombe, Bauchi, and Niger states, as well as with the Republic of Niger. Yobe State is known for its agricultural activities, with residents engaged in farming crops such as millet, maize, sorghum, and cowpea. The state is also home to the Yobe State University and other notable educational institutions.
These are a few details about the smallest states in Nigeria and their land masses. Despite their relatively small sizes, these states contribute significantly to the economic, cultural, and agricultural sectors of the country.