Akwa Ibom State, located in southern Nigeria, is expected to reach a population of approximately 7.3 million by 2025. This represents a significant 21% increase from the previous estimate of around 6 million. The state’s population growth is driven by factors such as enhanced security, industrial development, and ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and living standards. If this upward trend continues, projections suggest that the population could soar to 10.7 million by 2030, making Akwa Ibom one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing states.
Table of Contents:
The state’s development initiatives, including investments in healthcare, education, and industrialization, have created an environment conducive to population growth. Additionally, the state’s strategic location and natural resources, particularly its oil reserves, have attracted both local and international investments. These factors, combined with improved living conditions, have contributed to the steady rise in population, positioning Akwa Ibom as a key player in Nigeria’s economic and demographic landscape.
How Has Akwa Ibom State’s Population Changed Over the Years?
Since its creation in 1987, Akwa Ibom State has experienced consistent population growth. This growth can be attributed to advancements in healthcare, urbanization, and the expansion of economic opportunities. The state has become a hub for migration, with people relocating to urban centers in search of better livelihoods. As a result, Akwa Ibom has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most rapidly growing states, both in terms of population and economic activity.
The first official census conducted in 1991 recorded the state’s population at 2,409,613. By 2006, this figure had risen to 3,902,051, reflecting a substantial increase over a 15-year period. This growth was fueled by improved healthcare services, which led to lower mortality rates, and a high fertility rate prevalent in the region. By 2016, the population had climbed to an estimated 5.5 million, and recent projections for 2025 suggest a further rise to 7.3 million. This represents a 21% increase from earlier estimates, underscoring the state’s dynamic demographic evolution.
Urbanization has played a pivotal role in this population surge. Cities like Uyo, the state capital, have become magnets for job seekers and entrepreneurs, thanks to the state’s thriving oil industry and other economic activities. Improved healthcare infrastructure has also contributed to longer life expectancy and reduced infant mortality rates. Furthermore, the state’s focus on industrialization and job creation has attracted workers and their families, further boosting population numbers. These factors collectively explain why Akwa Ibom is one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing states.
Akwa Ibom State Population By Local Government
| No | Local Government Area | Population Projection (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Abak | 199,600 |
| 2 | Eastern Obolo | 85,800 |
| 3 | Eket | 248,200 |
| 4 | Esit Eket | 91,000 |
| 5 | Essien Udim | 277,300 |
| 6 | Etim Ekpo | 151,800 |
| 7 | Etinan | 242,700 |
| 8 | Ibeno | 107,200 |
| 9 | Ibesikpo Asutan | 197,600 |
| 10 | Ibiono Ibom | 270,900 |
| 11 | Ika | 104,300 |
| 12 | Ikono | 188,400 |
| 13 | Ikot Abasi | 189,800 |
| 14 | Ikot Ekpene | 202,100 |
| 15 | Ini | 142,400 |
| 16 | Itu | 183,100 |
| 17 | Mbo | 146,300 |
| 18 | Mkpat Enin | 254,500 |
| 19 | Nsit Atai | 105,600 |
| 20 | Nsit Ibom | 155,500 |
| 21 | Nsit Ubium | 182,400 |
| 22 | Obot Akara | 211,800 |
| 23 | Okobo | 147,900 |
| 24 | Onna | 176,400 |
| 25 | Oron | 125,600 |
| 26 | Oruk Anam | 246,700 |
| 27 | Udung Uko | 76,000 |
| 28 | Ukanafun | 180,000 |
| 29 | Uruan | 168,300 |
| 30 | Urue-Offong/Oruko | 101,800 |
|
| 31 | Uyo | 439,800 |
The Demographics Of Akwa Ibom State In 2025
Population by Age Group
| Age Group | Population | Percentage Of The Total Population |
|---|---|---|
| 0-14 years | 2,190,000 | 30% |
| 15-24 years | 1,200,000 | 16.4% |
| 25-54 years | 2,400,000 | 32.9% |
| 55 years and above | 1,510,000 | 20.7% |
Population by Gender
| Gender | Population | Percentage Of The Total Population |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 3,550,000 | 48.5% |
| Female | 3,750,000 | 52.5% |
Ethnic Composition
| Ethnicity | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Ibibio | 3,500,000 | 47.9% |
| Annang | 1,800,000 | 24.7% |
| Oro | 900,000 | 12.3% |
| Obolo | 600,000 | 8.2% |
| Other | 500,000 | 6.9% |
Religious Affiliation
| Religion | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Christianity | 6,800,000 | 93.2% |
| Islam | 350,000 | 4.8% |
| Traditional Beliefs | 150,000 | 2.0% |
source: akwaibomstate.gov.ng
