Top 10 Largest Cities In West Africa By Population
This article is about the top 10 largest cities in Africa by population. West Africa is home to some of Africa’s most populous and economically vibrant cities. The region’s rapid urbanization and natural population growth have contributed to the massive populations in cities like Lagos, Abidjan, and Kano.
These cities have become major commercial, economic, and political hubs, driving growth and development in the region but where do they rank among Africa’s top 10 largest cities in terms of population size? Let’s find out.
TOP 10 LARGEST CITIES IN AFRICA BY POPULATION
LAGOS
Lagos, the largest city in West Africa, is a bustling city that never sleeps. With a population of over 15.9 million people, Lagos is the commercial capital of Nigeria and a hub for trade and commerce. The city’s strategic location on the shores of the Benin and Lagos Lagoons has made it an attractive destination for businesses and investors.
Lagos is home to a diverse population, with English, Igbo, Awori, Hausa, and Yoruba being the most commonly spoken languages. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant, with a blend of traditional and modern influences. From the National Museum to the Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos has a rich cultural heritage that showcases its history and natural beauty.
ABIDJAN
Abidjan, the second-largest city in West Africa, is the economic capital of Côte d’Ivoire. With a population of over 5.6 million people, Abidjan is a bustling city that drives the country’s economy. The city is located on four peninsulas on the shores of the Ébrié Lagoon, making it a beautiful destination for tourists.
Abidjan is home to a diverse population, with French, Baoulé, and Dioula being the most commonly spoken languages. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant, with a blend of traditional and modern influences. From the St. Paul’s Cathedral to the National Museum, Abidjan has a rich cultural heritage that showcases is in tune with its history.
KANO
Kano, the third-largest city in West Africa, is an ancient city of commerce that dates back to the 11th century. With a population of over 4.3 million people, Kano is a bustling city that drives the economy of northern Nigeria.
The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the Kano Emirate and the Dala Hills. Kano is home to a diverse population, with Hausa and Fulfulde being the most commonly spoken languages. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant, with a blend of traditional and modern influences.
ABUJA
Abuja, the fourth-largest city in West Africa, is the capital city of Nigeria. With a population of over 3.8 million people, Abuja is a planned city that was built in the 1980s. The city is located in the centre of Nigeria, making it a hub for politics and governance.
Abuja is home to a diverse population, with English, Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo being the most commonly spoken languages. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant, with a blend of traditional and modern influences. From the National Assembly to the National Ecumenical Centre, and the National Mosque, Abuja is a beautiful city to behold.
KUMASI
Kumasi, the fifth-largest city in West Africa, is the garden city of Ghana. With a population of over 3.7 million people, Kumasi is a bustling city that drives the economy of southern Ghana. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the Manhyia Palace and the Kumasi National Cultural Centre.
Kumasi is home to a diverse population, with Asante Twi and English being the most commonly spoken languages. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant, with a blend of traditional and modern influences. From the Kumasi Zoo to the Lake Bosomtwe, Kumasi showcases its breathtaking beauty.
IBADAN
Ibadan, the sixth-largest city in West Africa, is the largest city in West Africa by land mass. With a population of over 3.6 million people, Ibadan is a bustling city that contributes to the economy of southwestern Nigeria. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the Ibadan Museum and the University of Ibadan.
Ibadan is home to a diverse population, with Yoruba and English being the most commonly spoken languages. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant, with a blend of traditional and modern influences. Beautiful sites at Ibadan include the Bower Tower and the Agodi Gardens.
DAKAR
Dakar, the seventh-largest city in West Africa, is the capital city of Senegal with a population of over 3.4 million people. The city is located on the Cap-Vert peninsula, making it a beautiful destination for tourists.
Dakar is home to a diverse population, with Wolof, French, and Serer being the most commonly spoken languages. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant, with a blend of traditional and modern influences.
OUAGADOUGOU
Ouagadougou, the eighth-largest city in West Africa, is the capital city of Burkina Faso. With a population of over 3.2 million people, Ouagadougou is a lively city that is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the Ouagadougou Cathedral and the National Museum.
Ouagadougou is home to a diverse population, with French, Mooré, and Dioula being the most commonly spoken languages. The city’s cultural scene is vibrant, with a blend of traditional and modern influences.
ACCRA
Accra, the ninth-largest city in West Africa, is the capital city of Ghana with a population of over 2.6 million people. The city is located on the Gulf of Guinea, making it a beautiful destination for tourists.
Accra is home to a diverse population, with English, Ga, and Twi being the most commonly spoken languages. From the Accra National Museum to the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Accra is blessed with beautiful sites that make good tourist attractions.
BENIN CITY
Benin City, is the tenth-largest city in West Africa. It is an ancient city that dates back to the 10th century and it has a population of over 1.9 million people. Benin City is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the Benin City National Museum and the Oba’s Palace.
CONCLUSION
West Africa’s largest cities by population are hubs for economic growth and development, driving progress in the region. Lagos, the largest city in West Africa, is a prime example of a city that has leveraged its strategic location and diverse population to become a commercial and economic powerhouse. As the region continues to urbanize, it is very important to address the challenges and opportunities presented by these massive populations to ensure sustainable growth and development.
