Zamfara State Population 2026

Zamfara State had an official population of 3,259,846 in the 2006 National Population Commission census, making it one of Nigeria's significant populated states at the time. Applying the NBS average annual growth rate of 3.3% for the state, the population is estimated at 6,240,272 in 2026, representing a significant increase over the two decades since the census. The state capital Gusau is the largest urban centre, with a 2026 estimated population of 560,000. Urban population accounts for approximately 18.0% of the total, while 82.0% of residents live in rural areas. With a land area of 39,762 km², the population density is approximately 157 people per square kilometre.

Zamfara State has a young population, with approximately 48.2% of residents under 15 years of age and 18.7% in the 15-24 age bracket — together representing the youth bulge characteristic of Nigeria's demographic profile. Working-age adults (25-54) make up 26.3% of the population, while seniors aged 55-64 and 65 and above account for 4.2% and 2.6% respectively. The gender split is approximately 51.2% male and 48.8% female.

The population of Zamfara State has grown steadily since the 2006 census, driven by high fertility rates, improved access to healthcare reducing infant mortality, and rural-to-urban migration. Nigeria's population growth rate of approximately 3.3% annually means that Zamfara State's population doubles roughly every 21 years (Rule of 70). By 2030, the state is projected to reach 7,105,666 residents. The absence of an updated national census since 2006 means that all post-2006 figures are estimates based on demographic modelling by the National Bureau of Statistics and UN Population Division. Nigeria's long-awaited census, postponed multiple times, will provide updated official data when completed.