Luanda to overtake Lagos as Sub-Saharan Africa’s most populous city by 2050 – World Bank
AI Executive Briefing
Gemini Flash AI~45s readThe World Bank projects that Luanda, Angola, will replace Lagos, Nigeria, as the most populous city in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2050. While Lagos will continue to grow, its rate of expansion is expected to be slower than that of the Angolan capital.
Context & Background
- ✦The projection is part of the World Bank report, 'Sub-Saharan Africa’s Urban Awakening: Catalyzing Economic Growth and Job Creation'.
- ✦Lagos maintains a significant economic position with a $259 billion GDP (PPP) and is actively pursuing a $1 trillion economy target by 2052.
Key Figures & Named Entities
Mark Roberts and Emily M. Owen:Editors of the World Bank report.Lagos State:Targeting a $1 trillion economy by 2052; currently holds a $259 billion GDP (PPP).
Outlook & Next Steps
Lagos continues to pursue its 2052 development plan, while the Federal Government maintains its separate target of a $1 trillion national economy by 2030, which the World Bank notes requires a fivefold increase in growth rates.
Key Takeaways
AI Summary- Luanda is projected to surpass Lagos as Sub-Saharan Africa’s most populous city by 2050, with a forecasted population of 20.3 million.
- Lagos is expected to grow to 16.2 million residents by 2050 but will be overtaken by Luanda’s 78% population surge.
- Lagos remains a major economic hub with a GDP of $259 billion (PPP) and a long-term development plan aiming for a $1 trillion economy by 2052.
Key Facts:2025-2050: Luanda's population is expected to grow from 11.4 million in 2025 to 20.3 million by 2050.October 2026: Lagos unveiled a long-term development plan targeting an economy worth nearly $1 trillion by 2052.
Editorial Excerpt
Angola’s capital, Luanda, is projected to overtake Lagos as Sub-Saharan Africa’s most populous city by 2050, with its population expected to rise by 78% over the next 25 years, according to the World Bank.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Story
Why is Luanda projected to overtake Lagos in population?
The World Bank projects Luanda's population will increase by 78% between 2025 and 2050, reaching 20.3 million, while Lagos is expected to grow to 16.2 million.
What is the economic status of Lagos according to the report?
Lagos is considered Africa’s second-largest city economy behind Cairo, with an estimated GDP of $259 billion based on purchasing power parity.
