Introduction

Why is Nigeria's population relatively high compared to countries that surround it, sharing similar geography, terrain, and ethnic linguistic groups? This question prompts us to delve deep into the demographic factors, cultural influences, and historical contexts that shape the population dynamics of Nigeria.

Traditional Practices and Early Marriage

Nigeria has a rich history of traditional practices that have significantly influenced its demographic patterns. One such practice is the encouragement of early marriage among the youth. Historically, adults from the age of consent were prompted into marriages during their early 20s. This early plunge into life's challenges and responsibilities was expected to foster early maturity and wisdom. Additionally, having multiple children was seen as a sign of fertility and better acceptance by society, leading to a high birth rate.

Economic Factors

The economic landscape also played a crucial role in maintaining a high birth rate. Following the post-Civil War economic boom in the late 1980s, there was a facilitation of this demographic trend. The economic prosperity provided a support system that encouraged larger families, seeing children more as assets than a burden.

Illiteracy, Joblessness, and Poverty

More recently, the high birth rates in Nigeria are largely attributed to a confluence of factors such as illiteracy, joblessness, and poverty. These social issues create a breeding ground for higher birth rates as families strive for more resources to support their larger families. Cultural values that prioritize large families also contribute to this phenomenon.

Pro-natalist Mindset

The collective mindset of prioritizing larger families is not unique to a specific region but prevalent throughout Nigeria. From historical empires like the Kongo and Luba-Lunda to present-day Nigeria, the belief that more people are better aligns with traditional and cultural values. This pro-natalist mindset is deeply ingrained and continues to influence population dynamics.

Geography and Ethnic Linguistics

It is often assumed that geographical terrain and ethnic linguistic factors play a significant role in population dynamics. However, in the case of Nigeria, these factors are not the primary determinants of its high population. The underlying factors, as discussed, are more cultural and socio-economic in nature.

Conclusion

The high population of Nigeria is a complex issue influenced by a multitude of factors, including traditional practices, economic prosperity, and cultural values. Understanding these influences provides valuable insights into the demographic patterns of the country and can help inform policies aimed at managing population growth.