List of 36 States in Nigeria and Their Capitals (2026)

List of 36 States in Nigeria and Their Capitals (2026 Updated Guide)

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and one of the continent’s most culturally diverse nations. The country is divided into 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Each state has its own capital, government, and administrative structure.

Whether you are a student preparing for an examination, a teacher, a researcher, or someone interested in Nigerian geography, knowing the list of states in Nigeria and their capitals is important.

The 36 states are grouped into six geopolitical zones: North Central, North East, North West, South East, South South, and South West.

These divisions help organise political representation, administration, regional development, and national planning.

In this article, you will discover the complete list of Nigeria’s 36 states and capitals, their geopolitical zones, the history of state creation, and important facts about Nigeria’s administrative structure.

How Many States Are in Nigeria?

Nigeria has 36 states and one Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, as of 2026.

This arrangement is established under Section 3 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Each state has a capital city that serves as the seat of its government.

The Federal Capital Territory is not one of the 36 states. It is a separate federal territory where Abuja, Nigeria’s national capital, is located.

Nigeria also has 774 local-level administrative areas, comprising 768 local government areas across the states and six area councils in the FCT.

Complete List of 36 States in Nigeria and Their Capitals

Below is the alphabetical list of all 36 states in Nigeria, their capitals, and geopolitical zones.

S/N	State	Capital	Geopolitical Zone
1	Abia	Umuahia	South East
2	Adamawa	Yola	North East
3	Akwa Ibom	Uyo	South South
4	Anambra	Awka	South East
5	Bauchi	Bauchi	North East
6	Bayelsa	Yenagoa	South South
7	Benue	Makurdi	North Central
8	Borno	Maiduguri	North East
9	Cross River	Calabar	South South
10	Delta	Asaba	South South
11	Ebonyi	Abakaliki	South East
12	Edo	Benin City	South South
13	Ekiti	Ado-Ekiti	South West
14	Enugu	Enugu	South East
15	Gombe	Gombe	North East
16	Imo	Owerri	South East
17	Jigawa	Dutse	North West
18	Kaduna	Kaduna	North West
19	Kano	Kano	North West
20	Katsina	Katsina	North West
21	Kebbi	Birnin Kebbi	North West
22	Kogi	Lokoja	North Central
23	Kwara	Ilorin	North Central
24	Lagos	Ikeja	South West
25	Nasarawa	Lafia	North Central
26	Niger	Minna	North Central
27	Ogun	Abeokuta	South West
28	Ondo	Akure	South West
29	Osun	Osogbo	South West
30	Oyo	Ibadan	South West
31	Plateau	Jos	North Central
32	Rivers	Port Harcourt	South South
33	Sokoto	Sokoto	North West
34	Taraba	Jalingo	North East
35	Yobe	Damaturu	North East
36	Zamfara	Gusau	North West

Note: Abuja is Nigeria’s federal capital, while Ikeja is the capital of Lagos State. Abuja is not a state and should not be counted as Nigeria’s 37th state.

What Are the Six Geopolitical Zones in Nigeria?

Nigeria’s 36 states are grouped into six geopolitical zones.

These zones provide a framework for discussing regional representation, economic development, population statistics, and national affairs.

The six geopolitical zones are:

1. North Central.
2. North East.
3. North West.
4. South East.
5. South South.
6. South West.

Each zone contains several states with distinct economic, geographic, cultural, and historical characteristics.

1. North Central States in Nigeria

The North Central geopolitical zone, sometimes called the Middle Belt, contains six states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The states are:

• Benue — Makurdi.
• Kogi — Lokoja.
• Kwara — Ilorin.
• Nasarawa — Lafia.
• Niger — Minna.
• Plateau — Jos.

The Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, is also grouped under North Central for geopolitical and statistical purposes.

The region is known for agricultural production, mineral resources, and diverse ethnic communities.

For example, Benue State is widely recognised for its agricultural activities, while Niger State is associated with extensive farmland and major hydroelectric facilities.

Number of states: 6, plus the FCT.

2. North East States in Nigeria

The North East geopolitical zone consists of six states:

• Adamawa — Yola.
• Bauchi — Bauchi.
• Borno — Maiduguri.
• Gombe — Gombe.
• Taraba — Jalingo.
• Yobe — Damaturu.

The region has significant agricultural, livestock, trading, and tourism potential.

States such as Adamawa, Bauchi, and Taraba contain diverse landscapes and agricultural communities.

Borno State, with Maiduguri as its capital, is also historically important as a centre of commerce and the former Kanem-Bornu civilisation.

Number of states: 6.

3. North West States in Nigeria

The North West geopolitical zone contains seven states, making it the zone with the highest number of states in Nigeria.

They are:

• Jigawa — Dutse.
• Kaduna — Kaduna.
• Kano — Kano.
• Katsina — Katsina.
• Kebbi — Birnin Kebbi.
• Sokoto — Sokoto.
• Zamfara — Gusau.

The region is important for agriculture, livestock production, manufacturing, and trade.

Kano is a major historical commercial centre, while Kaduna is known for its industrial and educational institutions.

Kebbi and Jigawa are also associated with agricultural production, including rice and other food crops.

Number of states: 7.

4. South East States in Nigeria

The South East geopolitical zone comprises five states:

• Abia — Umuahia.
• Anambra — Awka.
• Ebonyi — Abakaliki.
• Enugu — Enugu.
• Imo — Owerri.

The region has a strong tradition of commerce, entrepreneurship, manufacturing, and agriculture.

Aba in Abia State is an important commercial and manufacturing centre, while Onitsha in Anambra State is widely known for its markets and trading activities.

Enugu is historically associated with coal mining, and Ebonyi State is recognised for agricultural production.

Number of states: 5.

5. South South States in Nigeria

The South South geopolitical zone, often associated with the Niger Delta region, has six states.

They are:

• Akwa Ibom — Uyo.
• Bayelsa — Yenagoa.
• Cross River — Calabar.
• Delta — Asaba.
• Edo — Benin City.
• Rivers — Port Harcourt.

The region contains important oil and gas resources, waterways, agricultural areas, and commercial centres.

Port Harcourt in Rivers State is a major industrial and energy-related city.

Calabar in Cross River State is known for its cultural heritage and tourism attractions, while Benin City is historically associated with the Benin Kingdom.

Number of states: 6.

6. South West States in Nigeria

The South West geopolitical zone contains six states:

• Ekiti — Ado-Ekiti.
• Lagos — Ikeja.
• Ogun — Abeokuta.
• Ondo — Akure.
• Osun — Osogbo.
• Oyo — Ibadan.

The region is an important centre of commerce, industry, education, agriculture, and tourism.

Lagos is Nigeria’s leading commercial centre, with major financial institutions, ports, and businesses.

Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, is a major historical and educational city, while Ogun State has significant industrial and manufacturing activities.

Number of states: 6.

Summary of the Six Geopolitical Zones in Nigeria

Geopolitical Zone	Number of States	States
North Central	6 + FCT	Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau
North East	6	Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, Yobe
North West	7	Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara
South East	5	Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo
South South	6	Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Rivers
South West	6	Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo
Total	36 + FCT

The North West has the highest number of states, with seven, while the South East has the fewest, with five.

Abuja: The Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria

Abuja is Nigeria’s national capital and is located within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Before Abuja became the national capital in 1991, Lagos served as Nigeria’s federal capital.

The decision to establish a new capital was influenced by the desire for a more centrally located federal administrative centre.

The Federal Capital Territory was established in 1976, while Abuja formally replaced Lagos as Nigeria’s capital on 12 December 1991.

Unlike the 36 states, which have elected governors, the FCT operates under a different constitutional administrative arrangement, with a Minister appointed by the President.

The Six Area Councils in the FCT

The Federal Capital Territory comprises six area councils:

1. Abaji.
2. Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
3. Bwari.
4. Gwagwalada.
5. Kuje.
6. Kwali.

These councils perform local administrative functions within the FCT.

When Were the 36 States in Nigeria Created?

Nigeria did not always have 36 states.

The country’s administrative structure developed gradually through several state-creation exercises.

At independence in 1960, Nigeria had three major regions: Northern, Western, and Eastern. The Mid-Western Region was later created in 1963.

In 1967, the regional structure was replaced with 12 states under General Yakubu Gowon.

The number of states subsequently increased through different military administrations.

History of State Creation in Nigeria

Year	Number of States	Development
1967	12	Nigeria was reorganised into 12 states
1976	19	Seven additional states were created
1987	21	Akwa Ibom and Katsina were created
1991	30	Nine additional states were created
1996	36	Six additional states were created

The last state-creation exercise that changed Nigeria’s constitutional total occurred on 1 October 1996 during the administration of General Sani Abacha.

Which States Were Created in 1996?

The six states created in 1996 were:

1. Bayelsa State — created from Rivers State.
2. Ebonyi State — created from parts of Abia and Enugu states.
3. Ekiti State — created from Ondo State.
4. Gombe State — created from Bauchi State.
5. Nasarawa State — created from Plateau State.
6. Zamfara State — created from Sokoto State.

Their creation increased Nigeria’s total number of states from 30 to 36.

As of November 2026, Nigeria still has 36 states, although proposals for additional states have continued to be discussed.

What Is the Largest State in Nigeria?

Niger State is the largest state in Nigeria by land area.

Located in the North Central geopolitical zone, Niger State covers approximately 76,363 square kilometres, according to figures published by the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission and the Niger State Government.

Its capital is Minna.

The state has extensive agricultural land, important waterways, mineral resources, and major hydroelectric facilities.

Its land area should not be confused with its population, as the largest state by geographical size is not necessarily the most populous.

What Is the Smallest State in Nigeria?

Lagos State is generally recognised as Nigeria’s smallest state by land area.

Despite its relatively small geographical size, Lagos is the country’s leading commercial and financial centre.

Its capital is Ikeja, although Lagos Island and other parts of the metropolitan area have historically played important administrative and economic roles.

Why Are States Important in Nigeria?

The creation of states is an important feature of Nigeria’s federal system.

States provide a framework for governance and bring administrative institutions closer to communities.

Their importance includes:

1. Political Administration

Each state has its own government responsible for carrying out constitutional functions and state-level administration.

2. Infrastructure Development

State governments participate in developing roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and other public infrastructure.

3. Economic Development

States support economic activities through policies, investments, public services, and development initiatives.

4. Cultural Representation

Nigeria’s state structure provides opportunities for different communities to participate in governance and preserve their cultural identities.

5. Local Development

State and local administrative institutions support public service delivery and development planning at the community level.

Frequently Asked Questions About States in Nigeria

How Many States Are in Nigeria in 2026?

Nigeria has 36 states and one Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, as of 2026.

What Are the Names of the 36 States in Nigeria?

The 36 states are Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara.

Is Abuja One of the 36 States in Nigeria?

No. Abuja is located in the Federal Capital Territory, which is constitutionally separate from Nigeria’s 36 states.

What Is the Capital of Nigeria?

Abuja is the capital city of Nigeria.

What Is the Capital of Lagos State?

Ikeja is the capital of Lagos State.

Which Geopolitical Zone Has the Most States in Nigeria?

The North West geopolitical zone has the most states, with seven.

Which Geopolitical Zone Has the Fewest States?

The South East has the fewest states, with five.

What Are the Six Geopolitical Zones in Nigeria?

They are North Central, North East, North West, South East, South South, and South West.

Which State Is the Largest in Nigeria?

Niger State is the largest Nigerian state by land area.

Which State Is the Smallest in Nigeria?

Lagos State is generally recognised as the smallest state by land area.

What Are the Newest States in Nigeria?

The most recently created states are Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Gombe, Nasarawa, and Zamfara. All six were created in 1996.

How Many Local Government Areas Are in Nigeria?

Nigeria has 774 local-level administrative areas, comprising 768 local government areas in the 36 states and six area councils within the Federal Capital Territory.

When Did Nigeria Become a 36-State Federation?

Nigeria attained its current 36-state structure on 1 October 1996, following the creation of six additional states.

Conclusion

Nigeria consists of 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, with each state having its own capital city and government.

The states are grouped into six geopolitical zones: North Central, North East, North West, South East, South South, and South West.

These divisions are important for governance, regional representation, economic development, and national administration.

The 36-state structure was established in 1996 and remains Nigeria’s constitutional state structure as of 2026.

Whether you are preparing for an examination, conducting research, or simply learning about Nigeria, understanding the list of states in Nigeria and their capitals is an essential part of the country’s geography and political history.

References

1. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 — Section 3 and First Schedule. https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Nigeria_1999
2. National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria. https://www.nigerianstat.gov.ng
3. Federal Government of Nigeria — Government Portal. https://services.gov.ng
4. Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission — Niger State Overview. https://nipc.gov.ng/nigeria/niger
5. Federal Capital Development Authority — History of Abuja. https://fcda.gov.ng/the-history-of-abuja/

List of 36 States in Nigeria and Their Capitals