Nigeria is divided into six geopolitical regions
Figures are as of 2026: each state’s latest budget year and latest domestic-debt quarter at or before it, labelled on every card.
Often seen as Nigeria’s central belt, this region connects the northern and southern parts of the country. It is known for agriculture, diverse ethnic groups, and Abuja, the nation’s capital. The region is also important for food production, mining, and federal government activity.
Budget
₦4.6T
FY2026 · 6 of 7 states
Domestic debt
₦417.1B
Q3 '25 · 6 of 7 states
Land mass
241,564 km²
This is one of Nigeria’s most populous regions and has historically been a major centre of trade, agriculture, Islamic scholarship, and traditional institutions. Kano, Kaduna, and Sokoto have played particularly important roles in northern Nigerian history.
Budget
₦7.3T
FY2026
Domestic debt
₦215.4B
Q3 '25
Land mass
216,065 km²
The South South is Nigeria’s major oil and gas producing region. It includes the Niger Delta, with its extensive network of rivers, creeks, wetlands, and coastal communities. Port Harcourt, Warri, Benin City, and Uyo are some of its major urban centres.
Budget
₦10.9T
FY2026 · 5 of 6 states
Domestic debt
₦619.5B
Q3 '25 · 5 of 6 states
Land mass
86,344 km²
The North East has a strong history linked to the Kanem-Bornu Empire and other historic kingdoms. It has large areas of farmland and savannah, but has also faced major security and development challenges, particularly around the Lake Chad area.
Budget
₦10.3T
FY2026
Domestic debt
₦482.0B
Q3 '25
Land mass
272,451 km²
The South East is predominantly associated with the Igbo people and is known for entrepreneurship, commerce, manufacturing, and strong networks of small and medium-sized businesses. Cities such as Aba, Onitsha, Enugu, and Nnewi are major commercial and industrial centres.
Budget
₦5.5T
FY2026
Domestic debt
₦375.0B
Q3 '25
Land mass
30,255 km²
The South West is strongly associated with the Yoruba people and has some of Nigeria’s largest economic and cultural centres. Lagos is the country's major commercial hub, while cities such as Ibadan, Abeokuta, Akure, and Osogbo have significant historical and economic importance.
Budget
₦7.6T
FY2026 · 5 of 6 states
Domestic debt
₦1.4T
Q3 '25 · 5 of 6 states
Land mass
80,116 km²
