Nigeria is home to vibrant cities that are not only cultural hubs but also major economic engines fueling the nation’s development. In 2025, certain cities stand out for their wealth, propelled by sectors like oil and gas, finance, manufacturing, and trade. This blog highlights the top 10 richest cities in Nigeria, revealing their estimated GDPs and the key industries that drive their prosperity.
Top 10 Richest Cities in Nigeria (2025)
|
Rank |
City |
Estimated GDP (USD) |
Key Economic Drivers |
|
1 |
Lagos |
$80–$100 billion |
Finance, trade, tech, manufacturing, entertainment |
|
2 |
Port Harcourt |
$13 billion |
Oil & gas, petrochemicals, logistics |
|
3 |
Abuja |
$12 billion |
Government, real estate, services |
|
4 |
Uyo |
$8 billion |
Oil & gas, agriculture, tourism |
|
5 |
Obio-Akpor |
$8 billion |
Oil & gas, industrial services |
|
6 |
Bonny Island |
$7 billion |
LNG exports, oil refining |
|
7 |
Ibadan |
$6 billion |
Agriculture, education, trade |
|
8 |
Calabar |
$5 billion |
Tourism, trade, manufacturing |
|
9 |
Onitsha |
$4.5 billion |
Commerce, manufacturing, transportation |
|
10 |
Aba |
$4 billion |
Manufacturing, trade, textiles |
1. Lagos
Lagos leads as Nigeria’s richest city, boasting a diverse economy that includes finance, technology, manufacturing, and entertainment. Its GDP ranges between $80 to $100 billion, making it a dominant economic force in Africa.
2. Port Harcourt
Port Harcourt thrives on the oil and gas sector, housing refineries and petrochemical industries. Its estimated GDP is about $13 billion, reflecting its vital role in Nigeria’s petroleum economy.
3. Abuja
As the nation’s capital, Abuja’s economy centers on government services, real estate, and hospitality. It has attracted significant investments with a GDP of $12 billion.
4. Uyo
The capital of Akwa Ibom State, Uyo benefits from oil and gas revenues, agriculture, and tourism. Its strategic location boosts its $8 billion economy.
5. Obio-Akpor
Situated in Rivers State, Obio-Akpor’s economy is heavily linked to oil and gas industries, contributing an estimated $8 billion to Nigeria’s GDP.
6. Bonny Island
Bonny Island’s LNG exports and oil refining activities give it a GDP of roughly $7 billion, underlining its importance in Nigeria’s energy sector.
7. Ibadan
With a history steeped in agriculture, education, and trade, Ibadan’s diverse economy is valued at $6 billion.
8. Calabar
Calabar’s economy is driven by tourism, port activities, and manufacturing, totaling around $5 billion in GDP.
9. Onitsha
Known for its commercial markets and manufacturing, Onitsha contributes about $4.5 billion to the economy.
10. Aba
Aba is famous for its manufacturing sector, particularly textiles and footwear, with an estimated GDP of $4 billion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Which city is the richest in Nigeria?
A: Lagos is the richest city in Nigeria with an estimated GDP of $80 to $100 billion, driven by diverse sectors including finance, technology, and trade.
Q2: What drives the economy of Port Harcourt?
A: Port Harcourt’s economy is mainly driven by the oil and gas sector, including refineries and petrochemical companies.
Q3: How does Abuja contribute to Nigeria’s economy?
A: Abuja contributes mainly through government services, real estate, and hospitality industries.
Q4: Why is Uyo considered one of the richest cities?
A: Uyo benefits from oil and gas revenues, agriculture, and growing tourism, making it a significant economic center in the Niger Delta region.
Q5: Are these GDP estimates official?
A: These GDP figures are estimates based on available economic data and analyses from various reliable sources.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s richest cities are at the forefront of the country’s economic growth and development. From Lagos’s bustling finance and tech sectors to Port Harcourt’s oil and gas dominance, these urban centers are shaping Nigeria’s future. Understanding the economic strengths of these cities offers valuable insights for investors, policymakers, and anyone interested in Nigeria’s prosperity. As the nation grows, these cities will continue to be critical hubs of wealth and opportunity.
