Yobe State’s population projection in 2025 is approximately 3,976,316, with an increase of about 9% from the estimated population of 3,649,600 in 2022.
With an annual growth rate of 2.9%, the state’s ongoing population increase is pushed by high birth rates and a young population.
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How Has Yobe State’s Population Changed Over The Years?
Yobe State, located in northeastern Nigeria, has experienced massive population changes since it was created on August 27, 1991.
The state was formed from the western part of Borno State by the military government of General Ibrahim Babangida.
This decision was made to improve administration and development in the region, which was considered too large and diverse to manage effectively as part of Borno.
Yobe’s capital city is Damaturu, while its largest city, Potiskum, is famous for its bustling markets and for hosting the largest cattle market in Africa.
Before its creation, the area now known as Yobe State was made up of ethnic groups like the Kanuri, Fulani, and Ngizim.
The Ngizim people established the Potiskum emirate in 1809, which later merged with the Fika Emirate Council during British colonial rule in 1915.
With years, Yobe’s territory became part of the Northern Region, then the North-Eastern State in 1967, and later Borno State in 1976 before becoming its state in 1991.
At the time of its creation, Yobe State’s population was about 1.5 million, according to the 1991 census. By 2006, this number had grown to 2,321,339.
In 2016, estimates showed that the population had reached approximately 3.29 million. By 2022, this number grew to about 3,649,600. Projections for 2025 estimate a population of around 3.98 million, with an increase of about 9% from 2022.
However, the population growth in Yobe is affected by high birth rates, as the state has a youthful population with high fertility levels. Urban areas like Potiskum attract migrants due to economic opportunities.
However, challenges such as the Boko Haram insurgency have disrupted population stability in some areas, leading to displacement. Despite these difficulties, Yobe continues to experience steady growth and development over the years.
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The Demographics Of Yobe State
Age
Age Group | Percentage | Population Estimation |
---|---|---|
0-4 years | 20% | 795,263 |
5-14 years | 25% | 994,079 |
15-24 years | 20% | 795,263 |
25-54 years | 25% | 994,079 |
55 years and above | 10% | 397,632 |
Gender
Gender | Population Estimation |
---|---|
Male | 2,025,000 |
Female | 1,951,316 |
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Ethnicity
Ethnicity | Percentage | Population Estimation |
---|---|---|
Kanuri | 40% | 1,590,526 |
Fulani | 25% | 994,079 |
Ngizim | 15% | 596,447 |
Bade | 10% | 397,632 |
Others (Hausa, Bolewa, etc.) | 10% | 397,632 |