Nigeria, the Giant of Africa, is blessed with many things ranging from natural, mineral, and human resources to beautiful cities and strong states. We’re happy people, despite our ethnic diversity and the shege that has been thrown at us in recent years.
From when we gained independence in 1960, we have grown in number and structure over the years into a total of 36 states and A Federal Capital Territory.
Every State in Nigeria is still in progress, but some are far more advanced than others. In this list of the most developed states in Nigeria, each geopolitical zone is well represented, considering the revenue generated, infrastructure, standard of living, happening places, population, and ability to stand on their own with little or no help from the Federal Level.
In no particular order, here are 5 of the most developed states we have. Make sure you read to the end; there’s a bonus there for you!
Table of Contents
Most Developed States in Nigeria
-
Lagos
Recognized as The Center of Excellence (no cap), Lagos is one of Nigeria’s richest, most developed states and the commercial center.
It has an estimated population of about 10 million people and 20 Local Government Areas, it hosts the headquarters of several national and multinational companies like Dangote Cement, Swiss Pharma, Honeywell Flour Mills, and so on.
It is also home to many tourist attractions; Lekki Conservation Center, LightHouse beach house, Landmark Beach, Nike Art Gallery, etc. According to some people, it’s the headquarters for ballers from all over the country. That is probably why there are so many people, and there’s always traffic.
Read also: Top 20 Tourist countries in Africa
-
Akwa Ibom
This Southern State is blessed with good leadership that has put them on the list of developed states in Nigeria.
It has focused on creating jobs for its citizens, infrastructural development, good road networks, and tourist attractions like The Godswill Akpapio International Stadium, Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Center, Ibeno beach, and many others.
Visiting these places would make you feel like you’re on international soil. If you want to go on vacation, but your bank account wouldn’t let you go international, visit Akwa Ibom. You’d see. It is, indeed, The Land of Promise.
-
Kano
Kano is the largest, most developed, and second-largest industrial State after Lagos in Northern Nigeria regarding economy and population (about 10 million people).
This Northern State is very productive and of great Agricultural benefit to the nation, as they produce cash crops like groundnut, cotton, pepper, onions, wheat, beans, and so on.
It is also known for its craft and culture, and it is the Centre of Commerce. Do you want to see farming at its best? Or do you want to encounter the fullness of rich northern heritage and feed your eyes with beautiful crafts from the North? Kano is the place for you.
Read also: Top 7 African Countries for Business Investment Expansion
-
Anambra
This State is claimed to be the most developed in the East. Probably because it houses Onitsha, the internationally recognized market and a major city in the State that contributes to their economic prosperity.
It is known as the “Light of the Nation” and is also blessed with mineral resources (Crude oil and natural gas) that foster local and foreign trade and a diversity of caves and lakes perfect for sightseeing.
Its good road networks and recently built international airport are part of the contributing factors that adds it to this list of developed states. Big boys from the East frequent here too. Anambra is one Eastern State you should definitely visit.
-
Oyo
Oyo State has the fourth largest economy in Nigeria. There’s a large expanse of farmland in both the State and the State’s capital, Ibadan.
Oyo State also ranks among the best in Education, with a great deal of basic, tertiary, and Higher institutions.
It also houses the first University in Nigeria, the University of Ibadan, established in 1948. Also known as the Pace-setter state, it has set the pace for other western countries to follow in terms of leadership, infrastructure, Education, and agriculture.
Plus, have you tried amala with ewedu and gbegiri in Oyo state? Try it and see. Your life would never remain the same again.
Low-key, ballers are here too. Though Ibadan is competing with Lagos in terms of traffic.
-
FCT-Abuja
Although this is not a state, its significance cannot be overlooked. It is the Official Capital Territory and the seat of the nation’s power. It is even located at the center of the map! Apart from Lagos, it is the most advanced city in the country.
It has to be on the list of developed states in the country despite not being a state. Abuja has amazing structures, good road networks, a well-planned city layout, quality health care systems, less traffic, and a comfortable standard of living. Popular attractions include;
The Aso Rock, which you can call our own “White House,” The National Stadium, Thought Pyramid Art Center, Jabi Lake Mall, Boat Club, and Lake, etc. I’m sure you need no convincing to add The FCT to your list of places to visit.
Conclusion
This list of developed states is not to cancel or undermine the remaining states. Rather, it is to show the major differences that can be seen among the 36 states of the federation and propel them to do better in running their affairs.
Although some of these states’ development is seen mostly in their capitals, they are also developed since we can’t have a capital without a state.
So, you can visit other states if you want to go on a mini-vacation. For sightseeing or first-hand experience of diverse cultural heritages, any of these carefully selected most-developed states would be a good place to start.
Kindly follow our Twitter page to keep track of more interesting posts. You can also subscribe to our newsletter. Insight.ng has always got your back!
About Author
- I am a student of Obafemi Awolowo University. A Gen-Z and advocate for the Soft Life. I spend most of my leisure time as a freelancer, creatively curating content and telling relatable stories. I am also passionate about quality lifestyle.
Latest entries
SpiceDecember 11, 20237 Board Games Among Nigerians That Will Never Get Old
SpiceNovember 30, 2023How to Spot Fake News and Its Effect
LifestyleOctober 16, 2023Markets in Lagos and What You Need to Know About Them
LifestyleSeptember 8, 20239 Must-visit Travel Destinations in Nigeria