- If current fertility rates persist, Nigeria’s population is projected to reach 450 million by 2050, adding about four million people annually
- Dr. Ejike Oji emphasized the need to reduce Nigeria’s fertility rate from 4.8% to 4% by 2030 to avoid economic challenges
According to the Association for the Advancement of Family Planning (AAFP), Nigeria’s population is expected to hit 450 million by 2050 if current fertility rates persist.
Dr. Ejike Oji, Chairman of the AAFP Management Committee, shared this alarming projection at the 8th Nigeria Family Planning Pre-Conference media roundtable in Abuja. He pointed out that the country’s population is growing rapidly, adding about four million people yearly.
“This year’s growth is four million, but it could rise to 4.2 million next year. It might eventually reach six or even 10 million annually,” Oji explained.
He stressed that such growth poses significant challenges, drawing comparisons to India and China. Once struggling economically, both countries improved their fortunes by reducing fertility rates and focusing on youth development.
Oji cautioned that Nigeria must cut its fertility rate from 4.8% to 4% by 2030 to avoid severe economic and developmental issues.
The roundtable highlighted family planning as a critical solution. It can help manage population growth, drive sustainable development, and unlock economic potential, especially for Nigeria’s growing youth population.
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