Latest Worldometer estimates rank Ethiopia and Egypt behind Nigeria as Africa’s population surge continues toward 2.5 billion by 2050

Nigeria has maintained its position as Africa’s most populous country, with an estimated population of 242.4 million in 2026, according to the latest figures released by Worldometer.

The updated rankings place Nigeria firmly ahead of Ethiopia, which holds the second position with 138.9 million people, while Egypt ranks third with a population of 120.1 million.

The new estimates underscore Nigeria’s continued demographic dominance on the continent, driven by steady population growth and a predominantly youthful population. Despite the absence of a recent national census, the country’s population has expanded significantly from the 140.4 million recorded during its last official census in 2006.

According to the World Bank, Nigeria recorded an estimated population growth rate of 2.1 per cent in 2025, further contributing to its rapid expansion.

Africa as a whole remains the fastest-growing region globally, with projections indicating that the continent’s population could exceed 2.5 billion by 2050. Experts attribute this growth to high fertility rates, improving healthcare systems, and increasing life expectancy across many African nations.

Other countries featured among Africa’s most populous include the Democratic Republic of Congo (116.5 million), Tanzania (72.6 million), South Africa (65.5 million), Kenya (58.6 million), Sudan (53.3 million), Uganda (52.8 million), and Algeria (48.0 million).

Top 10 Most Populous Countries in Africa (2026):

Nigeria — 242.4 million

Ethiopia — 138.9 million

Egypt — 120.1 million

DR Congo — 116.5 million

Tanzania — 72.6 million

South Africa — 65.5 million

Kenya — 58.6 million

Sudan — 53.3 million

Uganda — 52.8 million

Algeria — 48.0 million

The figures highlight both the opportunities and challenges tied to Africa’s population boom, particularly for Nigeria, where rapid growth continues to place pressure on infrastructure, resources, and economic planning.