Nigeria is a federation of 36 states, but a select few drive the nation’s economic engine. Based on the most recent Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) figures entering late 2024 and 2025, these ten states stand out as the wealthiest.
Whether you are a business investor chasing opportunities, a student seeking admission, a pilgrim, or a tourist, these states are the centers of action.
Smart Travel Tip: As you plan your trip to any of these economic powerhouses, Syticks is your essential digital companion. From booking interstate bus tickets to securing hotel rooms and even finding movie tickets for your downtime, Syticks handles the logistics so you can focus on your journey.
Here are the 10 richest states in Nigeria and what brings travelers to them.
1. Lagos State
The Economic Behemoth
Lagos is not just a state; it is an economy larger than many African countries. It generates the highest IGR in Nigeria, housing the headquarters of nearly every major bank, tech startup, and conglomerate.
Business: The undisputed commercial capital. If you are traveling for tech, finance, or import/export, you are likely heading to Victoria Island or Ikeja.
Vacation: Lagos has a vibrant nightlife and beach culture. Popular spots include Landmark Beach, Lekki Conservation Centre, and the art-rich Nike Art Gallery.
Events: It is the entertainment capital. From “Detty December” concerts to Eko Hotel conferences, Syticks is the go-to platform to snag tickets before they sell out.
2. Rivers State
The Treasure Base of the Nation
With its massive oil and gas deposits, Rivers State is the second wealthiest. Port Harcourt (PH) serves as the oil capital, attracting expatriates and engineers daily.
Business: The hub for the oil and gas sector. The Onne Oil and Gas Free Zone is a major destination for industrial travelers.
Vacation: Port Harcourt Pleasure Park is a world-class recreational center. You can also take a boat to Bonny Island for a serene coastal escape.
Education: Home to the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) and Rivers State University.
3. Akwa Ibom State
The Land of Promise
Akwa Ibom has rapidly climbed the ranks due to significant oil revenue and aggressive infrastructure development. It boasts arguably the best road network in Southern Nigeria and the thriving airline, Ibom Air.
Vacation: A top destination for leisure. The Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort in Uyo is a masterpiece. Visitors also flock to Ibeno Beach, the longest sand beach in West Africa.
Religion: The state is predominantly Christian with grand worship centers, attracting religious tourists.
Travel Note: Travelers often praise the state for its safety and cleanliness.
4. Imo State
The Eastern Heartland
Despite challenges, Imo remains an economic heavyweight in the Southeast due to oil production and a bustling hospitality industry in Owerri.
Vacation: Owerri is jokingly called the “Enjoyment Capital” of the East, famous for its high concentration of hotels and lounges. Oguta Lake remains a timeless blue wonder for tourists.
Education: A massive hub for students, hosting the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) and Imo State University (IMSU).
Booking: Traveling to Owerri for a weekend? Use Syticks to compare bus prices and book a hotel near your venue.
5. Delta State
The Big Heart
Rich in oil and agricultural resources, Delta is a unique state with two major economic centers: Warri (commercial) and Asaba (administrative/film).
Business: Warri is a key city for energy and steel industries.
Vacation: Visit the River Ethiope in Abraka, believed to be the deepest inland waterway in Africa—its clear waters are perfect for relaxation. The Nelson Mandela Gardens in Asaba is also a key attraction.
Culture: The state is a melting pot of Urhobo, Itsekiri, Isoko, Ijaw, and Anioma cultures, making it a festival hotspot.
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6. Anambra State
The Light of the Nation
Anambra’s wealth comes not from oil, but from commerce and industry. It is the trading engine of West Africa.
Business: Onitsha Main Market is one of the largest markets in West Africa. If you are a trader, this is your pilgrimage site. Nnewi is known as the “Japan of Africa” for its automobile manufacturing.
Vacation: The Ogbunike Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage candidate, offers a thrilling adventure for hikers.
Religion: The Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity in Onitsha is a major Catholic site.
7. Ogun State
The Gateway State
Ogun has the highest concentration of industries in Nigeria due to its proximity to Lagos. It is the factory floor of the nation.
Religion: This is the religious tourism capital of Nigeria. It hosts the Redemption Camp (RCCG) and Canaanland (Winners Chapel), which attract millions of visitors annually.
Vacation: Olumo Rock in Abeokuta is a historic fortress and a must-climb for tourists.
Education: Known for having the highest number of universities in Nigeria, including Covenant University and Bells University of Technology.
8. Ondo State
The Sunshine State
Ondo is a major producer of cocoa and bitumen. Its economy is agrarian-driven but rapidly diversifying.
Vacation: The Idanre Hills are a spectacular tourist attraction, featuring 660 steps to the top and an ancient civilization preserved on the peaks.
Business: Cocoa merchants frequently travel here to source Nigeria’s best chocolate base.
9. Bayelsa State
The Glory of All Lands
As the site of the first oil well in Nigeria (Oloibiri), Bayelsa is central to the nation’s history and revenue.
Vacation: Ox-Bow Lake in Yenagoa is a center for relaxation and boat rides. The state is developing its eco-tourism potential in the Niger Delta creeks.
Education: Home to the Niger Delta University on Wilberforce Island.
10. Niger State
The Power State
Largest by landmass, Niger is the “Power State” because it houses Nigeria’s three major hydroelectric power stations: Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro.
Vacation: Gurara Waterfalls is one of Nigeria’s most beautiful natural sites, often compared to Victoria Falls in miniature. Zuma Rock, the giant monolith on the ₦100 note, greets you as you enter from Abuja.
Business: Agriculture and power generation are the primary draws here.
How to Explore These States with Syticks
Whether you are traveling to Ogun for a church convention, Lagos for business, or Obudu for a retreat, logistics can be a headache. This is where Syticks comes in.
Syticks is the all-in-one local travel platform designed for the Nigerian traveler.
Book Interstate Buses: Don’t stress about “sold out” buses at the park. Open Syticks, search for buses going to any of these 10 states, compare prices from different transport companies, and book your seat in advance.
Find Hotels: Need a place to stay in Port Harcourt or Owerri? The platform lets you browse and book hotels that fit your budget.
Event & Movie Tickets: If you are in Lagos or Abuja, check the “Events” or “Cinema” tab on Syticks to see what’s happening around you.
Ready to travel across Nigeria?
Download the Syticks app today on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to plan your next trip to Nigeria’s wealthiest destinations.