Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa is ranked the sixth most populous nation in the world.
It has a population of approximately 218.5 million people. Covering an area of 923,768 square kilometers, and 356,669 square miles, it is also one of the most densely populated countries on the continent.
India, located in Southeast Asia, holds the title of the most populous nation on the planet.
It is closely trailed by China, with the United States securing the third spot among the top 20 most populous countries globally.
As of 2023, India’s population has risen to 1,428,627,663, up from 1,417,173,173 the previous year, marking an increase of 11,454,490 people, or 0.81%. India’s median age is 28.2 years, reflecting a relatively young demographic.
The fertility rate is 2.0, indicating a slight decline from earlier years. The country, with a vast land area of 2,973,190 square kilometres, has a high population density of 481 people per square kilometre.
Factors such as rapid urbanization, healthcare improvements, and socio-cultural norms drive these demographic trends.
China, the second most populous country, saw a slight decrease in population to 1,425,671,352 from 1,425,887,337, a decline of 215,985 individuals or 0.02%.
With a median age of 39.0 years and a low fertility rate of 1.19, China’s ageing population is influenced by decreasing birth rates and changing family structures.
Despite its vast area of 9,388,211 square kilometres, the population density is moderate at 152 people per square kilometre.
The United States, the third most populous country, has a population of 339,996,563, up from 338,289,857, reflecting a growth rate of 0.50%.
The median age is 38.1 years, with a fertility rate of 1.66, indicating a stable but below-replacement-level birth rate.
The USA covers 9,147,420 square kilometres with a population density of 37 people per square kilometre.
Indonesia ranks fourth with a population of 277,534,122, up from 275,501,339, representing a 0.74% growth rate.
The median age is 29.9 years, and the fertility rate is 2.13. The country spans 1,811,570 square kilometres and has a population density of 153 people per square kilometre.
Pakistan is the fifth most populous country, with a population of 240,485,658, an increase from 235,824,862, reflecting a growth rate of 1.98%. Its median age is 20.6 years, and the fertility rate is 3.35.
Covering 770,880 square kilometres, Pakistan’s population density is high at 312 people per square kilometre.
According to the UN, Turkish Statistical Institute, here are the top 20 most populous countries:
1. India – 1,428,627,663
2. China – 1,425,671,352
3. USA – 339,996,563
4. Indonesia – 277,534,122
5. Pakistan – 240,485,658
6. Nigeria – 223,804,632
7. Brazil – 216,422,446
8. Bangladesh – 172,954,319
9. Russia – 144,444,359
10. Mexico – 128,455,567
11. Ethiopia – 126,527,060
12. Japan – 123,294,513
13. Philippines – 117,337,368
14. Egypt – 112,716,598
15. DR Congo – 102,262,808
16. Vietnam – 98,858,950
17. Iran – 89,172,767
18. Turkey – 85,816,199
19. Germany – 83,294,633
20. Thailand – 71,801,279
