By 2025, the estimated population of Ebonyi State is projected to reach approximately 3.52 million people. This forecast is derived from an annual growth rate of around 2.8%, building upon the 2022 population estimate of roughly 3.24 million. With continuous development and demographic shifts, Ebonyi State’s population is expected to keep expanding in the years ahead.
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Historical Growth of Ebonyi State’s Population
Ebonyi State has experienced significant population growth over the decades, reflecting steady demographic changes. In 1991, census records indicated a population of 1,029,312, though the state had not yet been officially established.
Following its creation in 1996 from parts of Enugu and Abia States, the population grew rapidly. The 2006 census recorded a substantial increase, with the number of residents reaching 2,176,947. This surge over a 15-year span reflected an impressive annual growth rate of approximately 4.8%.
Several factors contributed to this remarkable growth, including the development initiatives introduced after the state’s formation and increasing migration due to economic opportunities.
By 2016, population projections suggested the figure had risen to around 2.88 million. By 2022, the estimated population stood at 3,242,500, with the growth rate moderating to 2.8% annually. Even with this slower rate, the population remains on an upward trajectory, and by 2025, projections suggest it will reach around 3.52 million.
A key demographic characteristic of Ebonyi State is its youthful population, with over 40% of residents under the age of 15. This highlights the necessity for continued investments in education, healthcare, and employment opportunities to support future generations.
Ebonyi State’s Population by Local Government Area
| No | Local Government Area | Population Projection (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Abakaliki | 210,941 |
| 2 | Afikpo North | 152,728 |
| 3 | Afikpo South | 98,891 |
| 4 | Ebonyi | 180,608 |
| 5 | Ezza North | 207,781 |
| 6 | Ezza South | 189,799 |
| 7 | Ikwo | 219,031 |
| 8 | Ishielu | 182,879 |
| 9 | Ivo | 172,383 |
| 10 | Izzi | 229,241 |
| 11 | Ohaozara | 210,368 |
| 12 | Ohaukwu | 240,765 |
| 13 | Onicha | 159,309 |
Demographics of Ebonyi State
Age Distribution
| Age | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 0-14 | 1,408,000 | 40% |
| 15-24 | 600,000 | 17% |
| 25-54 | 900,000 | 26% |
| 55+ | 612,000 | 17% |
Gender Distribution
| Gender | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Female | 1,795,200 | 51% |
| Male | 1,724,800 | 49% |
Urban and Rural Distribution
| Area | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Urban | 1,500,000 | 43% |
| Rural | 2,020,000 | 57% |
