By 2025, the estimated population of Enugu State is projected to be approximately 4.9 million. This marks a steady increase of about 3.5% from the estimated population of 4,690,100 recorded in 2022. Factors such as urbanization and a natural rise in birth rates have significantly contributed to this upward trend.
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Historical Population Growth in Enugu State
In 1950, Enugu was a small town with an estimated population of around 59,663. The city was primarily recognized for its coal mining industry, which played a crucial role in its early development.
As the years progressed, Enugu expanded beyond its mining heritage, experiencing substantial growth. By the 1991 census, the population had surged to 2,125,068, reflecting the city’s transformation into a bustling urban center.
Further population growth was recorded in 2006, with the census indicating a rise to 3,267,837 residents. This increase highlighted the city’s enhanced infrastructure, economic expansion, and improved living standards that attracted new settlers.
By 2012, the population was estimated to have surpassed 3.8 million, signifying a continuous trend of growth. By 2022, the figure had climbed to approximately 4,690,100, with an annual growth rate of around 3.5% due to economic opportunities and rapid urbanization.
As of early 2024, the metropolitan population was estimated to be 876,000, with a 3.42% increase from the previous year. Moving into 2025, Enugu State’s projected population stands at about 4.9 million, aligning with its historical pattern of consistent growth.
Population Distribution by Local Government Area
| No | Local Government Area | Population Estimate (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aninri | 263,000 |
| 2 | Awgu | 386,000 |
| 3 | Enugu East | 547,000 |
| 4 | Enugu North | 479,000 |
| 5 | Enugu South | 392,000 |
| 6 | Ezeagu | 336,000 |
| 7 | Igbo-Etiti | 413,000 |
| 8 | Igbo-Eze North | 513,000 |
| 9 | Igbo-Eze South | 292,000 |
| 10 | Isi-Uzo | 295,000 |
| 11 | Nkanu East | 304,000 |
| 12 | Nkanu West | 292,000 |
| 13 | Nsukka | 615,000 |
| 14 | Oji-River | 252,000 |
| 15 | Udenu | 353,000 |
| 16 | Udi | 473,000 |
| 17 | Uzo-Uwani | 251,000 |
Demographic Composition of Enugu State
Age Distribution
| Age Group | Population Estimate |
|---|---|
| 0-14 years | 1,500,000 |
| 15-24 years | 1,200,000 |
| 25-54 years | 1,800,000 |
| 55 years and above | 400,000 |
Gender Distribution
| Gender | Population Estimate |
|---|---|
| Male | 2,350,000 |
| Female | 2,550,000 |
Ethnic Composition
| Ethnic Group | Population Estimate |
|---|---|
| Igbo | 4,500,000 |
| Idoma | 250,000 |
| Igala | 150,000 |
Religious Affiliation
| Religion | Population Estimate |
|---|---|
| Christianity | 4,700,000 |
| Traditional Beliefs | 150,000 |
| Islam | 50,000 |
