The population of Cross River State In 2025 is projected to exceed 5 million people. This estimate is based on a growth rate of about 3.0% per year.
Compared to the population figures from previous years, this shows a significant increase, nearly doubling the numbers from 2006.
However, the growth is seen by different factors, including economic developments in the state and demographic trends.
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How Has Cross River State’s Population Changed Over The Years?
Cross River State’s population In 1991 was recorded at 1,911,297 during the national census. However, this census was criticized for undercounting, with experts suggesting that about 25 million people across Nigeria were not included.
Despite this, the number gave a starting point for tracking population growth in the state. By 2006, the population had increased to 2,892,988, a significant growth of about 51% in 15 years.
In 2016, estimates showed that the population had grown to over 3.8 million. By 2022, the population was projected to reach around 4,406,200, with an annual growth rate of about 2.8%.
This continued growth showed that the state was becoming more developed and attracting more people. In 2025, the population is expected to exceed 5 million.
This projection is based on a steady growth rate of about 3.0% per year, seen by several factors. The growth in Cross River State’s population has been influenced by economic development and natural fertility rates.
The state’s improving economy has led to better healthcare and living conditions, encouraging natural population growth.
People from other regions also move to Cross River due to job opportunities and the perception that it is a safe and stable area.
Additionally, high fertility rates among the different ethnic groups have played a part in increasing the population. Urbanization, with more people moving to cities like Calabar, has also contributed to the growing numbers.
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Cross River State Population By Local Government
| No | Local Government Area | Population Projection (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Abi | 273,456 |
| 2 | Akamkpa | 287,943 |
| 3 | Akpabuyo | 523,678 |
| 4 | Bakassi | 60,827 |
| 5 | Bekwara | 202,801 |
| 6 | Biase | 323,103 |
| 7 | Boki | 358,795 |
| 8 | Calabar Municipal | 353,402 |
| 9 | Calabar South | 368,088 |
| 10 | Etung | 153,935 |
| 11 | Ikom | 314,786 |
| 12 | Obanliku | 210,768 |
| 13 | Obubra | 331,580 |
| 14 | Obudu | 310,173 |
| 15 | Odukpani | 370,060 |
| 16 | Ogoja | 329,145 |
| 17 | Yakurr | 376,480 |
| 18 | Yala | 405,980 |
The Demographics Of Cross River State In 2025
Age
| Age Group | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 0 - 4 years | 1,000,000 | 20% |
| 5 - 9 years | 800,000 | 16% |
| 10 - 14 years | 600,000 | 12% |
| 15 - 19 years | 500,000 | 10% |
| 20 - 24 years | 400,000 | 8% |
| 25 - 29 years | 350,000 | 7% |
| 30 - 34 years | 300,000 | 6% |
| 35 - 39 years | 250,000 | 5% |
| 40 - 44 years | 200,000 | 4% |
| 45 - 49 years | 150,000 | 3% |
| 50 - 54 years | 100,000 | 2% |
| 55 - 59 years | 80,000 | 1.6% |
| 60+ years | 70,000 | 1.4% |
Gender
| Gender | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 2,350,000 | 50% |
| Female | 2,650,000 | 50% |
Ethnic Group
| Ethnicity | Ethnicity | Ethnicity |
|---|---|---|
| Efik | Efik | Efik |
| Ejagham | Ejagham | Ejagham |
| Yakurr | Yakurr | Yakurr |
| Bekwarra | Bekwarra | Bekwarra |
| Other Ethnic Groups (including Bahumono, Bette, and Yala) | Other Ethnic Groups (including Bahumono, Bette, and Yala) | Other Ethnic Groups (including Bahumono, Bette, and Yala) |
Urban And Rural Area
| Area | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Urban | 3,000,000 | 60% |
| Rural | 2,000,000 | 40% |