Nigeria has maintained its status as Africa’s most populous country, with an estimated population of 242.4 million in 2026.
Worldometer population estimates reviewed on Wednesday place Nigeria ahead of Ethiopia and Egypt, which occupy the second and third positions respectively among the continent’s most populous countries.
Africa continues to record the fastest population growth globally, with the continent’s population projected to surpass 2.5 billion by 2050. Analysts attribute the trend to high fertility rates, a predominantly youthful population and improved healthcare outcomes.
Nigeria’s latest population estimate is based on projections, as the country’s last national population census was conducted in 2006, when its population was officially recorded at 140.4 million.
Data from the World Bank indicates that Nigeria’s population expanded at an estimated annual rate of 2.1 per cent in 2025, sustaining its steady demographic growth.
The 10 most populous countries in Africa in 2026 are:
1. Nigeria – 242.4 million
Nigeria remains the continent’s largest population centre, adding an estimated 4.9 million people over the past year.
With a median age of 18 years and an average fertility rate of 4.2 children per woman, the country’s youthful demographic continues to support labour force expansion and consumer market growth.
2. Ethiopia – 138.9 million
Ethiopia ranks second with a projected population of 138.9 million.
The East African nation recorded an annual population growth rate of 2.53 per cent, increasing by more than 3.4 million people within a year.
3. Egypt – 120.1 million
Egypt remains the most populous country in North Africa, with an estimated population of 120.1 million.
Its population grew by approximately 1.74 million people over the past year, reflecting an annual growth rate of 1.47 per cent.
4. Democratic Republic of Congo – 116.5 million
The Democratic Republic of Congo occupies fourth place with an estimated population of 116.5 million.
The country also posted one of the highest population growth rates among Africa’s top 10, at 3.21 per cent.
5. Tanzania – 72.6 million
Tanzania’s population is estimated at 72.6 million, supported by an annual growth rate of 2.86 per cent.
Its relatively young population, with a median age of 18 years, continues to fuel rapid demographic expansion.
6. South Africa – 65.5 million
South Africa ranks sixth with an estimated population of 65.5 million.
Unlike many other countries on the list, it recorded a more modest annual growth rate of 1.09 per cent.
7. Kenya – 58.6 million
Kenya’s population has reached an estimated 58.6 million, with annual growth standing at 1.92 per cent.
Its expanding young workforce continues to drive growth across sectors such as technology, manufacturing and financial services.
8. Sudan – 53.3 million
Sudan has an estimated population of 53.3 million, reflecting an annual growth rate of 3.14 per cent.
The country added more than 1.6 million residents over the past year.
