Across Nigeria, a new wave of entrepreneurship is taking root and it's not just happening in Lagos. Cities across the country are creating fertile ground for startups with the right mix of talent, infrastructure, funding, and community.
From policy-friendly Abuja to border-connected Calabar, the right city can open doors to investors, mentors, and opportunities that fast-track your journey from idea to market.
Here are 10 cities leading Nigeria's startup charge:
Lagos: Nigeria's Innovation Capital
Lagos, home to over 20 million people, is Nigeria's largest startup hub. Coastal access supports trade, while innovation centres like CcHUB, Leadspace, and Impact Hub bring together founders, developers, and investors through pitch nights, hackathons, and coaching.
Events like Techpoint Build and Lagos Startup Week connect startups to local and global investors. With funding ranging from $50,000 seed rounds to multi-million-dollar Series A deals, Lagos remains the go-to launchpad for high-growth ventures.
Abuja: Where Policy Meets Innovation
Abuja's closeness to government ministries makes it easier for founders to navigate regulation. Supportive policies like the Nigeria Startup Act 2022 and funds such as Flourish Africa and the Brave Women programme boost startup momentum.
Government-led hubs, like NITDA and TISCs, offer free training in IP, business development, and digital tools — making Abuja ideal for civic tech, healthtech, and agritech founders.
Port Harcourt: From Oil to Innovation
Once known for oil, Port Harcourt is diversifying with a growing tech and service economy. Local universities produce skilled talent, and spaces like the Ken Saro-Wiwa Innovation Hub and StartupSouth provide incubation and coworking support.
Partnerships with state bodies like RIMA and PHCCIMA help startups access grants and export resources. The city is especially strong in logistics, energy tech, and B2B services.
Ibadan: Affordable and Academic
With its lower cost of living and academic institutions, Ibadan is a startup-friendly city for early-stage ventures. Incubators at the University of Ibadan and The Polytechnic offer competitions and mentorship.
Coworking hubs like Strand and Innovation Village support edtech, agritech, and manufacturing startups through skill-sharing events and pitch sessions.
Enugu: South-East's Rising Tech Star
Previously a mining city, Enugu is becoming a tech hub thanks to initiatives like the Enugu Tech Hub and Salamander Incubator, which offer digital skills training and support for small teams.
Government-run innovation challenges with cash prizes attract young founders. Affordable office space and growing creative industries make it a prime spot for digital agencies and light manufacturing.
Kano: Trade and Tech in the North
Kano's historic markets, Kurmi and Kantin Kwari, serve millions. With tech hubs like Pivot365 and Startup Grind Kano, entrepreneurs can plug into northern Nigeria's commerce ecosystem.
Government programs offer training in solar energy, food processing, and tailoring, while e-commerce and logistics startups tap into Kano's vast trade routes.
Calabar: Gateway to Central Africa
Calabar's international airport and seaport make it ideal for cross-border trade. The Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort combines office space, retail, and event venues.
The Cross River State government supports tourism, hospitality, and crafts with grants and training. Events like the Calabar Business Summit and Calabar Carnival attract investors and international exposure.
Uyo: Quietly Building Innovation
Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom, is building its tech identity with innovation spaces like the Start Innovation Hub. The state's investment in youth training and digital literacy is creating a new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs.
Affordable infrastructure, growing interest in agritech and mobile solutions, and local government support make Uyo a promising startup city on the rise.
Jos: Creativity Meets Climate
With a cooler climate and low cost of living, Jos is a growing hub for creatives and developers. The city is home to tech and creative communities like nHub Nigeria, which supports early-stage founders with training and funding.
Its proximity to farming regions also makes Jos ideal for agritech startups, while digital creatives thrive in the arts and media sector.
Benin City: Culture, Tech and Commerce
Benin City is blending its cultural legacy with modern innovation. Tech-focused programs at Edo Innovates and partnerships with EdoJobs are equipping young entrepreneurs with coding, business, and design skills.
With access to skilled youth, regional trade routes, and support from local government, Benin is fostering startups in fintech, e-commerce, and creative industries.
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