Germany vs Nigeria
Germany leads on 3 of 6 metrics, Nigeria on 3. Here's the full side-by-side breakdown.
Germany vs Nigeria: the verdict
Nigeria is the more populous of the two, home to 237.53 million people — about 2.8× the population of Germany (83.49 million).
On the economy, Germany has the larger nominal GDP at $5.05T. But measured per person, Germany comes out ahead on GDP per capita ($60,496), a better proxy for average living standards.
Geographically, Nigeria is the larger country, spanning 923,768 km².
Germany records the higher Human Development Index (0.959), reflecting stronger combined outcomes in health, education and income (source: UNDP).
Overall the two are evenly matched across these headline metrics — the "winner" depends on which measures matter most to you.
Full breakdown
Government & politics
Germany
Germany is a federal parliamentary republic. The President is a ceremonial head of state, while the Chancellor is the powerful head of government, elected by and answerable to the Bundestag. Germany's system is known for the 'constructive vote of no confidence' — parliament can only remove a Chancellor by simultaneously electing a replacement, which produces unusually stable governments. The powerful Federal Constitutional Court guards the constitution (the Basic Law), and the 16 states (Länder) hold substantial powers.
Nigeria
Nigeria is a federal presidential republic modelled on the United States. The President is both head of state and government, directly elected, and shares power with a bicameral National Assembly and an independent judiciary. Its 36 states hold significant powers, and elections balance ethnic and regional interests across a large, diverse federation.
Travel & practical
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Frequently asked questions
Which country has a higher GDP, Germany or Nigeria?
Germany has the higher nominal GDP at $5.05T, compared with $290.79B for Nigeria (World Bank).
Which country has a larger population, Germany or Nigeria?
Nigeria has the larger population with 237,527,782 people, versus 83,491,249 for Germany.
Which is larger in area, Germany or Nigeria?
Nigeria is larger, covering 923,768 km² compared with 357,114 km² for Germany.