Nigeria has maintained its status as Africa’s most populous country, with an estimated population of 242.4 million in 2026.
Worldometer population estimates reviewed yesterday place Nigeria ahead of Ethiopia and Egypt, which occupy the second and third positions respectively among the continent’s ten most populous countries.
Nigeria’s latest population estimate is based on projections, as the country’s last national population census was conducted in 2006, when its population was officially recorded at 140.4 million.
Africa continues to record the fastest population growth globally, with the continent’s population projected to surpass 2.5 billion by 2050. Analysts attribute the trend to high fertility rates, a predominantly youthful population and improved healthcare outcomes.
Data from the World Bank indicates that Nigeria’s population expanded at an estimated annual rate of 2.1 percent in 2025, sustaining its steady demographic growth. The country remains the continent’s largest population centre, adding an estimated 4.9 million people over the past year. With a median age of 18 years and an average fertility rate of 4.2 children per woman, the country’s youthful demographic continues to support labour force expansion and consumer market growth.
The other 9 countries are: Ethiopia, which ranks second, with a projected population of 138.9 million. And then Egypt, the most populous country in North Africa, with an estimated population of 120.1 million. The rest are: Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, South Africa, Kenya, Sudan and Algeria.
As Africa’s population continues to expand, experts expect the continent’s growing workforce and consumer base to significantly influence future investment, economic activity and labour markets. Nigeria, with its large and youthful population, is projected to remain a major contributor to Africa’s economic development in the coming years.
