Nigeria
Country statistics · 1990–present
Nigeria at a Glance
Nigeria is home to 232.7 million people as of 2024, with a population that is growing very rapidly. At a GDP per capita of $1,684, it is a low-income economy — reflecting an economy where significant development opportunity remains. Life expectancy at birth stands at 54.6 years, well below the global average, reflecting ongoing public health challenges.
Population Trends
The total resident population stood at 232.7 million as of 2024. With a birth rate of 32.5 and a death rate of 11.6 per 1,000 people (2024), the natural growth rate stands at 20.9 per 1,000 — equivalent to roughly 5 million additional residents each year from natural change alone.
Economy & Development
Nigeria is a mid-sized economy, with a total GDP that is projected at $435 billion (2029 IMF projection). At $1,684 per person, it is classified as a low-income economy — reflecting an economy where significant development opportunity remains. Real GDP growth is projected at 4.2% in 2029, representing solid growth. With an unemployment rate of 22.6% (2018), the labour market reflects high unemployment.
Health & Society
Life expectancy at birth is 54.6 years (2024), well below the global average, reflecting ongoing public health challenges. Current health expenditure per person is $67 (2023), representing very low per-capita healthcare spending, a common constraint in lower-income economies. The adult literacy rate stands at 70.4% (2024), reflecting literacy rates that remain a key development focus. 41.2% of the population use the internet (2024), indicating growing but uneven digital access. Access to safe drinking water reaches 29.9% of the population (2024), representing limited safe drinking water access, a significant public health priority.